I definitely think my views on drugs and alcohol and strongly influenced by my upbringing.
I grew up in alcohol-free home. Neither of my parents ever drank (that I ever saw) and I was taught that it was a damaging practice. When I went away to college, I stayed away from any groups or events that would have alcohol, especially since I was still underage. It wasn't until after I graduated from college that I even became significantly exposed to alcohol.
It has been surprising to me how many of my Christian peers and people who are In vocational ministry are such big fans of alcohol. It was an adjustment for me at first, but I know that scripture only condemns drunkenness and not social drinking and so I don't have any problem with them drinking. It has also been even more surprising to me how much these people are bothered when they invite me to drink with them and I decline. Some have even tried to pressure me into doing so and that actually really irritates me. What does it matter!?
I choose not to drink for a few reasons. First, I've never had a desire to do so - mostly because of my upbringing. Second, I don't care for the taste. Plus it's just full of empty calories. Just like I don't drink soda, I don't drink alcohol. I'd like to say that I also abstain to be a good role model or to protect my integrity as a ministry leader, but honestly that has nothing to do with it. I just don't want to.
I do think that people like me who are In vocational ministry need to be careful when and where they drink. Whether we want to or not, we are in a position of leadership and are role models to people we may not even know. We need to be careful that 1) we do not cause a brother or sister to stumble, and 2) we do not put people in a place of questioning our integrity.
Whew! Enough on alcohol.
Regarding drugs, I'm a pretty firm believer that if something is illegal, then one should avoid it because it's probably harmful.
As far as prescription drugs go, I think that yes, they can be very helpful when used according to physicians instructions. However, I do think we live in a culture of over-medicating. We seek out a pill, and easy fix for every little ailment and don't allow our immune systems to work for themselves. Same goes for over-the-counter drugs. I think they can be super helpful - I carry a pill box with me in my work bag. And once a month, believe me, I'm a much better person because of pills. But I do try to be careful and not pop pills at the slightest inkling of discomfort.
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