Better Living Through Drunkenness
February 22nd, 2010Most people who are known as Christians simply do not get drunk often enough. Becoming drunk enables us to relax and let go of ourselves, to see life in a new way, and increases the quality of our life. Of course, we are not talking about becoming intoxicated by alcohol, but by the Spirit. In Ephesians 5:18, Paul writes: “do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.” Here Paul contrasts being filled with alcohol with being filled with the Spirit. There are some similarities between the two.
First, there is a change in speech. Those drunk on alcohol are often characterized by speech that is slurred, rude, and crude. Those filled with the Spirit, however, are characterized by speaking is psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (Ephesians 5:19). They joyfully sing and make melody in their hearts (Ephesians 5:19). They are continually thanking God for the blessings in their life (Ephesians 5:20). In addition, their speech is wholesome and edifying (Ephesians 4:29, 5:3-4).
Second, there is a change in step. Those who are intoxicated have a difficult time walking straight, their balance is impaired, they have poor coordination, and difficulty seeing clearly. In contrast, those who filled with the Spirit have greater clarity. They are able to see what is truly important in life and walk accordingly (cf. Ephesians 4:17-19). They walk in love (Ephesians 5:1-5) and light (Ephesians 5:6-14).
Third, there is a change in self-control. Drunkenness results in a loss of self-control. Behavior becomes erratic and inhibitions are lowered (and often lead to regrets). Being filled with the Spirit, however, leads to greater self-control. Spirit filled lives are characterized by: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). This kind of living leads to a life free from regrets, shame, and remorse.
In each case, being filled with the Spirit is vastly superior to being filled with alcohol. It is important to note that being filled with the Spirit is not a one time event; it is a continuous event in the life of a Christian. We fill ourselves by taking on the actions and characteristics of the Spirit. When we do this, we will find there is nothing better than being drunk with the Spirit.
