The Oracle of King Lemuel

INTRODUCTION

King Lemuel is a biblical character mentioned twice in the book of Proverbs 31. Lemuel received his mother's word of wisdom on the proper ways kings must conduct themselves by purity, piety, justice, charity, fair play, etc. Our focus is the way of advice to kings to stay away from strong drink (alcohol), just as he was taught by his mother.

OUTLINE

1. Intoxicating Beverages

2. The Royals

INTOXICATING BEVERAGES

A beverage of drink is a consumable liquid to quench thirst and prevent dehydration. These beverages can be categorised into alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. An alcoholic or intoxicating beverage is any drink containing alcohol.

The consumption of these intoxicating beverages causes unwarranted excitement and loss of competence. Drinking alcoholic beverages is a gateway to drunkenness as a result of being intoxicated. Alcohol use can affect the central nervous system, decreasing alertness and sensory brain functions (Isaiah 5:11). Taking alcoholic drinks often leads to some negative outcomes which affect the quality of life physically, socially and mentally (Genesis 9:21–22). The most common include hangovers, impulsive behaviours (Esther 1:10–12), impaired judgements (Isaiah 5:22–23; 28:7), financial difficulties (Proverbs 21:17), relationship struggles (Proverbs 19:32–36), avoidable accidents (Proverbs 23:33–35). Evidently, alcoholic intake also has some long-term negative health effects like heart problems, cancer and liver disease (Proverbs 23:29–32).

THE ROYALS

A person is tagged as royal when the individual is a king, queen or a member of the royal family. They are often classified as people of royal blood and status; as a result, they are not people who are expected to misbehave. Accordingly, born again is a King and priest unto the blood of Jesus and King Lemuel, as well as royals are advised that:

The royal blood must stay away from alcoholic drinks so as not to forget the law and pervert justice for the afflicted (Proverbs 31:5).

It is only those who want to perish that are encouraged to take strong drinks (Proverbs 31:6).

It is only foolish people who are lured to take strong drinks because alcohol is a mocker (Proverbs 20:1).

God specifically instructed Aaron and his children to stay off strong drink (Leviticus 10:8–9). This instruction still applies to us because we are priests (Revelation 1:6).

Anyone who wants to experience true joy or feel elated should get filled with the Holy Ghost (Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 5:18). Psalm 4:7 says, “You have put gladness in my heart, more than in the season that their grain and wine increased.”

CONCLUSION

Strong drink is deceptive, and whosoever is deceived by it is not wise. Get filled with the Holy Ghost to be truly elated.

QUESTIONS

What are the negative outcomes of taking alcoholic drinks?

Briefly explain your position of royalty as a believer.

FURTHER READINGS

SUN: 1 Peter 2:9.

MON: Revelation 1:6.

TUE: Revelation 5:10.

WED: Romans 8:17.

THUR: Exodus 19:6.

FRI: Psalm 4:7.

SAT: Proverbs 31:1–6.

ASSIGNMENT

Identify five (5) “strong wines” that can destroy destiny. (2×5=10 marks)