"But Jesus Drank Wine" & Other Stories That Kept Us Stuck

Join the conversation in our community at BJDW Community! Episode 134. What if this is the summer it all changes—for the better? ☀️ Today we dive into what it means to experience summer without alcohol, and why that might be the very thing your soul is craving. Whether you’re newly sober-curious, starting your first alcohol-free summer, or coming back to this journey after a break, this conversation is packed with grace, encouragement, and practical tools. We talk about everything from mom culture and rosé memes to airplane triggers, BBQ season, and how to handle your first AF vacation. Plus, why starting now (not in September) might just be the best decision you make all year. You’ll walk away with encouragement, mindset shifts, and a whole new way of seeing summer, not as something to survive, but something to savor. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why summer can be the time to start your sober journey How to spot your summer triggers & plan ahead How to prep for your first alcohol-free trip or poolside hang The problem of "I’ll just wait until September" Why alcohol might be taking up more space than you think—and how to take it back The joy of sunsets, sparkling water, and technicolor memories Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! BJDW Coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Learn More about Coaching with Christy Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine You can find this episode on YouTube HERE. The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

To help you reflect and dig deeper, we’ve created a free guided journaling booklet that goes hand-in-hand with this episode. You can download it here. Join the conversation in our community at BJDW Community Today we tackle a topic that hits close to home for many women of faith: Has wine—or any other comfort—become more important than your relationship with God? Using a biblical lens, they explore the concept of idolatry: anything that takes up too much of our time, energy, money, or mental space—ultimately distracting us from intimacy with Jesus. While idolatry may sound like an Old Testament word, the truth is, modern-day idols are everywhere. And for many of us, alcohol quietly takes up far more space than we realize. We share personal experiences and spiritual insights into how alcohol once affected our own walks with God—and how letting it go made space for peace, presence, and purpose. We also walk listeners through introspective questions and journal prompts designed to help you examine your own relationship with alcohol with grace, curiosity, and truth. If you’ve ever wondered why alcohol feels so important—or if life without it might feel more aligned with the life God has for you—this episode will guide you gently but boldly toward freedom. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What idolatry looks like in the modern world—and how alcohol fits in How to identify when something has taken God’s place in your heart or habits The spiritual, emotional, and relational costs of holding on to alcohol Why curiosity and compassion matter more than shame in this process How to take the next step toward freedom, one brave question at a time Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Learn More about Coaching with Christy Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine You can find this episode on YouTube HERE. The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join the conversation in our community at BJDW Community. We’re re-releasing one of our most popular episodes—Episode 13: Did Jesus Drink Wine? With Pastor David—because some truths are worth hearing twice. Or ten times. This episode gets to the heart of a phrase many of us used to justify the habit: “But Jesus drank wine.” It’s not just the name of our podcast—it was a story that kept us stuck in a nightly-ish drinking cycle. So today, join us in the studio as they welcome a very special guest: Meade’s pastor, David Walters, who joins us as our resident biblical scholar to tackle the burning question: Did Jesus really drink wine—and does it matter? David bravely and graciously unpacks this question and so many more, including: What does Scripture actually say about wine and drinking? What does it mean to “take our thoughts captive”? Why is the heart mentioned over 800 times in the Bible—and what does that have to do with the lies we believe? What are false idols, and how do they relate to alcohol or anything else we turn to for comfort? How do we uncover the deeper truth beneath the stories that keep us stuck? And yes… what do kids and CrossFit have to do with any of this? This episode is packed with spiritual depth, practical wisdom, and powerful applications for anyone on the journey to freedom—from alcohol, or anything else taking up too much space in your life. And don’t miss the end of the episode—this week’s “tiny TINA” might just be the most brilliant yet. Whether you’re new to the pod or you’ve heard this one before, hit play with fresh ears. Because this might be the replay your heart needs right now. #ButJesusDrankWine #FreedomFromAlcohol #BiblicalTruth #FaithAndFreedom #TheMissingPeace #RenewYourMind #ChristianWomen #ReRelease Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind Learn More about Coaching with Christy Learn More about Coaching with Meade Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine You can find this episode on YouTube HERE. The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  In this honest and insightful episode, we’re joined by Blake Roberts (a returning guest!) and Jamie Haigh, founders of The Three Percent Co. and hosts of The 3% Podcast. Both licensed therapists and men of faith, Blake and Jamie share their personal and professional perspective on what’s really going on inside the hearts and minds of men—and how women can walk with their husbands as they move toward emotional and spiritual wholeness. Together, they unpack the idea behind The 3%: a challenge for men to show up with just 3% more honesty than they currently are. Because for many men, even a small increase in vulnerability can be completely life-changing. As they open up about their own stories and the work they do with men every day, we talk about why so many men shut down emotionally, how generational patterns contribute to silence and shame, and why faith is central to healing.  Most importantly, Blake and Jamie offer practical, compassionate insight for women who want to better understand and support the men in their lives—without fixing, forcing, or losing themselves in the process. If you're married to a man who struggles to open up, raising sons, or just wondering how to better understand what he’s feeling but not saying—this episode will give you hope, tools, and a new perspective. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why so many men struggle with vulnerability—and how it starts What The 3% Rule is and why it matters more than you think How safe, connected relationships help men open up and heal The role of faith in emotional transformation Practical ways to support a man without rescuing or pressuring him How to foster honest conversations and emotional growth in your home Resources: Here’s the Gabor Maté video Blake mentions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2xdXVpyFoo Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  In this episode, we continue our deep dive into Dr. Lee Warren’s 10 Commandments of Self-Brain Surgery, focusing on commandments 6 through 10. As freedom-from-alcohol coaches, we share how these powerful principles shape our approach to helping women break free from the overdrinking cycle. From prioritizing long-term well-being to understanding the transformative power of thoughts, we explore actionable steps—what we like to call Tiny Tinas—to help you take practical steps toward change. Throughout the conversation, we offer personal anecdotes, real-world applications, and insights on how to overcome the immediate discomfort that often comes with transformation.  This episode is packed with advice for anyone looking to rewrite their story, not just in terms of addiction, but in breaking generational patterns, celebrating progress, and renewing your mind. Commandments 6-10: 6️⃣ I Must Love Tomorrow More Than I Hate How I Feel Right Now Hope is the key that pulls us forward. We talk about how focusing on the possibilities ahead can change your outlook on today’s temporary discomfort, helping you take action toward a brighter future. 7️⃣ I Must Stop Making an Operation Out of Everything Life is hard, but not every challenge requires drastic measures. We discuss the importance of choosing humor, forgiveness, and simply moving forward—without making everything a major operation. 8️⃣ I Must Not Perpetuate—or Start—Harmful Generational Thought or Behavioral Issues in My Life or Family This is a game-changing commandment. It’s all about breaking the cycle. You don’t have to pass on trauma, shame, addiction, or fear. We explore how you can rewrite your family’s story by making changes in your own life and actions. 9️⃣ I Must Believe That I’m Getting Better at What I’m Doing Growth is a fact, not a feeling. In this section, we dive into how consistency in doing the work—no matter how invisible it seems at first—leads to tangible growth. Trusting the process is key, even when progress feels slow. 🔟 I Must Understand That Thoughts Become Things Your thoughts are powerful. We discuss how focusing on what you want to create in your life can literally rewire your brain. When you start imagining a better life, you open the door to greater possibilities. As Scripture says, "God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or imagine" (Ephesians 3:20). It’s time to imagine the life you want. Key Takeaways: How to prioritize long-term well-being over short-term discomfort in the journey to freedom The importance of not overcomplicating life and learning to move on with grace Breaking harmful generational patterns and choosing a new path for yourself and your family Recognizing that growth is happening even when it’s not immediately visible The power of focusing on positive thoughts to reshape your reality Scripture Reference: Ephesians 3:20 – "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us." As we wrap up these commandments, we invite you to join our community of women committed to freedom from alcohol, using both neuroscience and faith to break free. And don’t forget to check out my book, Love Life Sober, where I dive even deeper into the principles we’ve discussed here.   Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  Listen to Dr. Lee Warren’s podcasts: The Self-Brain Surgery Podcast and Spiritual Brian Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren.    Learn more about Dr. Lee Warren and subscribe to his substack here.    Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find Part One on YouTube HERE. You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  In this special episode, we got to guest-host Dr. Lee Warren’s Spiritual Self-Brain Surgery podcast to discuss the first five of his 10 Commandments of Self-Brain Surgery—powerful principles that combine neuroscience and faith to help you overcome challenges and break free from the destructive patterns in your life, including alcohol use. We dive into the intersection of neuroscience and spirituality, sharing how you can take charge of your thoughts, emotions, and actions to create lasting transformation. Using Dr. Lee's commandments as a guide, we explore how you can change your brain by changing your mind. Commandments 1-5: 1️⃣ I Must Relentlessly Refuse to Participate in My Own Demise You're either building your brain—or breaking it. Every thought, feeling, belief, and action either propels you forward or holds you hostage. This commandment emphasizes the choice to embrace life with each decision, fostering a mindset of resilience and growth. 2️⃣ I Must Believe That Feelings Are Not Facts; They Are Chemical Events in My Brain Emotions are signals, not truths. They’re data, not destiny. We discuss how to honor your feelings without being controlled by them, and how to act on what’s true, even when your emotions are telling you something different. 3️⃣ I Must Believe That Most of My Automatic Thoughts Are Untrue Your brain’s default mode is not designed for joy or truth; it’s built for survival. This means that many of your automatic thoughts are unreliable. We dive into how to challenge these thoughts and train your brain to align with your true mind—moving from survival mode to thriving. 4️⃣ I Must Believe That My Mind Is in Charge of My Brain This is a game-changer. You’re not a victim of your neurochemistry. You can actually change it. We explore how taking control of your mind allows you to access hope, healing, and peace. Mind-over-brain is key to lasting transformation. 5️⃣ I Must Believe That Self–Brain Surgery Is Not a Metaphor; It is the Mechanism of Transforming My Life Self-brain surgery is real—it’s not just a metaphor. Your thoughts are like a scalpel that can cut out toxic patterns and implant healthier ones. This principle is grounded in neuroplasticity and aligns with biblical renewal (Romans 12:2). We share how this concept works in both science and Scripture. Key Takeaways: How to stop sabotaging your own growth and choose life with every thought and action Why emotions are signals, not truths, and how to process them without letting them control you The importance of challenging automatic thoughts and rewiring your brain for joy and truth Understanding mind-over-brain control and its impact on your life The power of self-brain surgery and how it leads to true transformation Scripture Reference: Romans 12:2 – "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." We hope this episode inspires you to take charge of your thoughts and actions, and ultimately, to live a life free from the destructive patterns that hold you back. Join us next week as we continue with the next five commandments of self-brain surgery.   Listen to Dr. Lee Warren’s podcasts: The Self-Brain Surgery Podcast and Spiritual Brian Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren.    Learn more about Dr. Lee Warren and subscribe to his substack here.    Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Disclaimer: This episode discusses topics including suicide and suicidal ideation, which may be distressing to some listeners. If you are experiencing emotional distress or feel unsafe, please know that help is available. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent support, call 911 (if in the United States) or your local emergency services immediately. For those in the United States, you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 (available 24 hours) or 1-800-273-8255. If you're located outside the United States, please consult your local crisis intervention resources or visit https://findahelpline.com for international hotline information. Your well-being matters, and you are not alone. Please consider seeking help from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals if you need support. Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  In this vulnerable and powerful conversation, we sit down with our dear friend and community leadership team member Heather Dillion to hear her story of stepping out of the darkness of alcohol and into the light of God’s grace. Heather is a successful attorney, wife, and mom—but behind the scenes, she was quietly struggling for years. Heather shares how a high-pressure lifestyle and long-standing habits slowly eroded her peace, her joy, and her ability to show up fully in her own life. From early drinking in college to a deeply public rock bottom that led her to seek help, Heather speaks honestly about the unraveling—and the rebuilding—that followed. With the support of her family and community, and a deepening relationship with God, Heather began to heal. She opens up about her time in traditional rehab treatment, how she learned to regulate her emotions in healthy ways, and how community and faith became her anchors in the storm. Her story reminds us that there is zero shame in seeking help.  This episode is for the woman who’s silently struggling, the one who’s managing everything on the outside but feeling broken inside. Heather’s message is clear: freedom is possible, and Jesus is not afraid of your darkest moments. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How alcohol quietly became a barrier between Heather and the life she truly wanted The mental, emotional, and spiritual toll of trying to keep it all together Why hitting a low point became the very thing that opened the door to healing The role of faith, community, and professional support in her transformation Daily practices that help Heather experience peace and presence Encouragement for anyone who feels alone in their struggle Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Christy and Meade welcome Jill, a beloved member of the But Jesus Drank Wine leadership team, to share her powerful story of breaking free from alcohol and drawing closer to God. After ten years of trying to moderate her drinking, Jill was inspired by Christy’s sobriety story in the summer of 2023 and made the bold decision to stop drinking entirely. What followed was a journey of spiritual renewal, mental clarity, and deeper intimacy with God. Jill opens up about the subtle ways alcohol had taken hold of her life—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. She shares how it consumed her mental energy, fueled guilt and shame, and ultimately stood in the way of the peace and purpose she longed for. Through surrender, community, and daily obedience, Jill experienced true freedom—and now encourages others to do the same. This conversation is especially meaningful for women navigating caregiving, motherhood, and the pressure to “keep it together.” Jill’s courage to speak up and step out is a reminder that the cost of honesty is far outweighed by the gift of freedom. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why moderation isn’t always harmless—and what it might be costing you How alcohol can quietly become a spiritual and emotional burden What it means to truly surrender a habit to God The role of testimony and vulnerability in personal transformation Encouragement for women in the “sandwich generation” carrying invisible loads How community and faith walk hand-in-hand toward lasting sobriety Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine You can find this episode on YouTube HERE. The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join the conversation in our community HERE! In this empowering episode, Christy and Meade welcome author and speaker Laura Smith for a rich conversation about her latest book, Brave Woman, Mighty God. Laura—now a 15-time published author—shares her heart behind the book’s message and reminds us that strength doesn’t come from “girl power” but from God power. Together, they explore the stories of bold biblical women like Mary Magdalene, Sarah, and others who did mighty things—not because they were fearless, but because they were faithful. Laura unpacks how faith invites us to overcome hustle culture, live out our God-given purpose, and root our strength in Christ, not in performance. Drawing from both Brave Woman, Mighty God and her previous book The Urgency of Slowing Down, Laura encourages listeners to let go of burnout culture and embrace restorative spiritual rhythms. The conversation gets personal as the hosts reflect on their own struggle with hurry, the importance of screen sabbaths, and how true rest is found in presence with God, not productivity. This episode is filled with scripture, wisdom, and compassion for women who want to trust God more deeply—especially in seasons of waiting, struggle, or uncertainty. If you’ve ever doubted your calling, wrestled with comparison, or felt worn down by the world’s demands, this conversation will meet you right where you are. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How biblical women inspire courage through their faith, not their perfection The dangers of hustle culture and the healing power of slowing down How to embrace rest as a spiritual practice, not just a productivity tool Why community is essential in walking out our faith and freedom What to do in seasons of waiting, and how to trust God’s timing Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  In this episode, Christy and Meade welcome back Pastor David Walters for an honest and theologically rich conversation on one of the most frequently asked questions among believers: Is drinking alcohol a sin? Together, they explore what the Bible actually says about alcohol—and just as importantly, why we ask the question in the first place.  Is it about seeking permission? Wanting to avoid conviction? Or genuinely desiring to obey God? Pastor David helps unpack the heart behind the question, reminding us that walking with Jesus is less about rule-following and more about relationship, wisdom, and surrender. Drawing from key scriptures—including Genesis, Psalms, Ephesians, Proverbs, Romans, and 1 Corinthians—this conversation touches on themes like purity, self-control, freedom, and the impact of our choices on others. Pastor David also addresses the difference between God’s recorded voice (through Scripture) and His revelatory voice, and how we can tune our ears to both. This episode offers not just biblical insight, but also practical guidance for anyone who’s evaluating their relationship with alcohol, wrestling with cultural messages, or simply wanting to hear God’s voice more clearly in their everyday decisions. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What Scripture says—and doesn’t say—about drinking alcohol The deeper motivations behind asking if something is a sin Why spiritual maturity requires discernment, not just rules How to tune into God's voice through Scripture and prayer The role of personal conviction, wisdom, and love for others in decision-making   Other Pastor David Episodes:  Episode 13: Did Jesus Drink Wine Or Not?  Episode 24: What is Shame?  Episode 51: Realigning with Core Values Episode 96: What does the Bible say about Moderation? Episode 104: Conquering Life’s Temptations Join the conversation in our community at https://butjesusdrankwine.com/community.  Join our private, small-group coaching space, The Missing Peace, and get BJDW all-community access for free! https://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching Order Christy’s book now available! Love Life Sober, A 40 Day Alcohol Fast To Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health and Renew Your Mind  Learn More about Coaching with Christy https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/   Learn More about Coaching with Meade https://meadehollandshirley.com/   Connect with us on Instagram! @imnotsoberimfree @lovelifesoberwithchristy @butjesusdrankwine   You can find this episode on YouTube HERE.   The creators, hosts, and producers of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, psychological or professional advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any communication on behalf of BJDW or otherwise to be a substitute for such. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in any mention of and/or linked resources are those of the authors/owners of those resources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the But Jesus Drank Wine podcast team or guests of the show.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.