The New Testament speaks often of the need to be “sober.” Being sober certainly means that Christians should never be intoxicated by alcohol or other substances, but the word goes beyond prohibiting physical drunkenness. Being sober is to be free from mental and spiritual intoxication. It is to be self-controlled and to avoid the passions and lusts that will cloud our minds and souls.
There are many things in this world that can cause spiritual intoxication. And just as with physical intoxication, those who are spiritually intoxicated make bad choices, can’t see the consequences of their actions, and are unresponsive to any help or correction. Those who are spiritually intoxicated can have a false sense that everything is great, when in reality they may be in very serious danger. What can cause spiritual drunkenness? Following our own sinful lusts and pleasures will certainly do it. But pursuing anything (even if it is not inherently sinful) in an excessive, uncontrolled manner can make us numb to spiritual realities and keep us from seeing spiritual dangers. Career, money, pleasure, and entertainment have always been potential sources of intoxication. And in our day, we have the added threats of our devices and social media. While not wrong to use in and of themselves, it is easy to see how these things can dull our spiritual senses.
What do the scriptures say about sobriety? Why is it so important? Let’s look at a couple uses of this word. Peter writes, “The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer.” (1 Peter 4:7 NASB95) We must be sober so that we will be people of prayer. We are in a spiritual battle, and we need to be alert and aware so that we can see spiritual needs and pray for ourselves and others. Peter again says, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) A lack of sobriety will cause us to be unaware of the spiritual dangers that surround us. Those who are not keeping themselves sober may not hear the lion’s roar, and they can easily be devoured. But those who are sober can see the dangers, and they have the spiritual presence of mind to take quick, sensible action.
Let us heed the Lord’s warnings and be sober in mind and spirit.
—Scott Colvin
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