The Bible was written in ancient cultures where wine was an accepted part of one’s diet. Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding party. He gave his disciples the wine of the Passover meal as a symbol of his blood, shed for us. Paul recommended that his apprentice Timothy take wine “for his stomach’s sake” (1 Timothy 5:23).

But the Bible also recognizes that abusing alcohol can cause physical harm to oneself and others and can derail relationships with people and with God. In the book of Genesis, following the Great Flood and God’s covenant with Noah, the first story concerns the humiliation and family conflict that ensued from Noah’s drunkenness (Genesis 9:18-27)...

Close to Home pamphlets help Christian caregivers support those dealing with difficult personal issues, and to lead them on a path to wholeness. Read more about this series.