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Can Mommy Have a Drink?

Alcohol is not an easy topic to tackle in the Christian community. And it may be even more difficult for moms.

That’s because of the “mommy wine culture” that one ascribes to, adamantly opposes, or participates in—secretly. Your grandma’s on Facebook, so you know, maybe you wouldn’t want her seeing you wear that “wine o’clock” T-shirt or sharing a funny meme about it.

Turns out celebrities also have opinions about mommy wine culture.

The insight that actress Busy Philipps recently shared with Parents magazine surprised me. She expressed that while she loves “a good margarita,” she is tired of mommy wine culture—the memes, graphic tees, tumblers, and overall laissez-faire attitude that celebrates “mommy juice” or sends the message that parenting requires liquid relief in the form of white zinfandel.

“I’m the best mom when I’m sober,” she said.

At first glance, it’s refreshing to hear someone celebrate their commitment to making healthy choices in order to be the best mom possible. I can definitely get on board with that. On the other hand, I subscribe to the “everything in moderation” approach for my personal alcohol consumption and my attitude toward mommy wine culture. Perhaps you do too.

Alcohol is okay with me—if it’s not too much or too often. I know my limits and would never put my kids or myself in a compromising situation. Plus, I think our families would be much worse off if we all drank in secret after our kids went to bed. But I am also sensitive enough to know that I would abstain in the company of a friend struggling with alcoholism or one who was offended by it. As with almost any choice, it’s important to assess your crowd and be respectful.

Romans 14:13 says, “Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.”

Next time you’re at an event where you can’t decide if you should or shouldn’t reach for a glass, consider these factors:

  • Why you want it. Be vigilant for signs of the slippery slope of addiction.
  • Be responsible. Stay well within your limit of safely caring for yourself and anyone else who is counting on you.
  • Ask yourself if drinking will tempt or disturb anyone around you. Prioritize the people you care about more than your desire to consume alcohol—or anything else for that matter.

If and when you do drink, keep in mind that while Scripture doesn’t prohibit alcohol consumption, it does prohibit drunkenness. Ephesians 5:18 says, “Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”

Even though I enjoy the occasional glass of wine, I know that Jesus is always my ultimate and true source for rest, peace, and relaxation. I hope He’s yours too.


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