Alcoholism is not a curse, but it is an enslaving addiction. Family, work, health all become unimportant compared to the desire for the next drink. Today, science has proved that the predisposition to become addicted is part of a person’s genes. Children and grandchildren can inherit the disease from parents. So, is it possible to not become an alcoholic when it runs in the family? Yes. Never take a drink.

Alcoholism is a progressive disease. A young man tries drinking and it feels very good. (Science suggests his genes greatly increase his pleasure.) Soon, he desires to drink daily and one drink becomes two or three, then a bottle is drained. He comes to believe alcohol makes him feel happier, reduces stress and worry, helps him to relax, relieves boredom, and generally makes life better. His body, also, becomes physically addicted. It requires alcohol to feel “normal.” Thus, the man’s whole being, his body, mind and emotions are all addicted to alcohol. This is the progression of sin and temptation.

What does the Bible teach about resisting temptation? James 4:7 (NET), “So submit to God. But resist the devil and he will flee from you.” First, we must submit to God and obey His will. Pray to God for strength. Second, we need to be positive in our rejection of temptation. This will increase our strength of character – now and in the future. It also disconcerts to some extent the devil. He sees our positiveness and knows that it is useless to discuss the matter with a person of strong convictions. But if the question is turned over in the mind, Satan will surely suggest further reasons and arguments. Soon, we will be overmatched in argument. Remember the Apostle Peter’s warning: “Be sober-minded, be alert. Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour.” 1 Peter 5:8. End the discussion. That will “keep Satan from gaining the advantage over” you. (2 Corinthians 2:11, RSV). We must promptly and positively obey the Word and Spirit of the Lord as the only safe course for anyone.

However, once a person is addicted to alcohol, additional helps from support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, or from a professional drug counselor may be necessary. These people can teach you how to identify triggers and to develop strategies to positively resist temptation.

Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1196: “Am I Living Under a Generational Curse? Curses Series (Part II)”
Curses in family bloodlines and the bigger context of Old Testament curses
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

Episode #1200: “Could an Addiction Block My Christian Growth?”
Learning to identify and manage compulsive and addictive behavior
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes