Wine is a mocker and strong drink is a brawler; whoever goes astray by them is not wise.
(Proverbs 20:1)
When one becomes dependent upon alcohol (and by inference other drugs) he/she becomes an unproductive member of society, and declines in wealth, spirits, and health. Drinking to excess is self-indulgence and those who wish to be effective in school or work must not be seduced by the fleeting pleasures of alcohol or drugs (Proverbs 31:6-7).
Wine is a mocker and liquor is a brawler. Addictions transform personality and exert widespread influence over behavior and one must recognize the power of alcohol and other drugs to avoid their seduction, to avoid their excesses.
Of course, it is not all who drink alcohol who fall into the conditions described in Proverbs 23:29-35, but it is they who linger over drink, making the usage of alcohol a lifestyle. That is, it is not the occasional use but the ongoing abuse of alcohol [drugs] against which Solomon warns us. The benefit from the use of these things is measurable and minimal; the loss from their abuse is immeasurable and maximal.
Do you use “recreational” alcohol/drugs? Do you need alcohol or drugs to have fun? Are drugs and/or alcohol creating problems in your life? Do you know anyone who has fallen prey to drug dependence or alcoholism?