HIMPower Magazine HimPower April 2018 | Page 12

Jesus said to them , “ Fill the water pots with water .”
because we can raise awareness about the use of alcohol and how it may be affecting families , individuals , schools , youth , teens , churches , and the communities where we live , play , and work . During this incredible weekend ( three alcohol-free days ) when many college students and families are celebrating the beginning of spring 2018 , overconsumption of alcohol is often noticeable . This special weekend is an excellent time to talk about alcohol consumption and its influence on our young people , family life , and society . More important , if you notice family or friends experiencing difficulty with the three alcohol-free days challenge , encourage them to get help and provide them with a local resource .

Jesus said to them , “ Fill the water pots with water .”

John 2:7 ( NKJV )
Christians and individuals of other faith communities participate in the April / May celebration season that is filled with weddings , high school proms , graduations and other family gatherings . Whether you consume alcohol or not , you probably cannot ignore its impact on the lives of friends , family members , employees , adolescents , and young adults . So , is the real question to drink or not to drink ? Let ’ s examine the alcohol facts and put everything into a Christian perspective so that we can encourage one another as we trust God with every aspect of our lives .
Be sober , be vigilant ; because your adversary the devil walks around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour . – 1 Peter 5:8 ( NKJV )
WHAT WE KNOW
• Drinking too much alcohol increases the chances for injuries , violence , drowning , liver disease , and some types of cancer .
• Alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance in the United States .
• The typical American will see 100,000 beer commercials before he or she turns 18
• According to a 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health ( NSDUH ), 86.4 % of people ages 18 or older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime .
• Alcohol misuse cost the United States billions of dollars each year .
• Alcohol use is common among college students and has been linked with sexual risk-taking behaviors .
• Children , youth , and teens living in homes with parents that have alcohol problems are severely impacted emotionally and socially .
• Underage drinking is a serious public health problem and poses enormous health and safety threats to young people .
12 HimPower April 2018