How can 1 Timothy 5:23 guide Christians in making health-related decisions today?

◄ 1 Tim 5:23's role in health choices? ►

“Stop drinking only water and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent ailments.” (1 Timothy 5:23)

Timeless Principles Drawn from the Verse

• Physical well-being matters to God.

• Practical, material remedies are legitimate; faith does not rule out medicine.

• Moderation is assumed (“a little wine”).

• Health counsel can vary person-to-person; Timothy’s needs were unique.

• Care for the body is part of faithful stewardship.

Other Scriptures That Echo These Truths

• Luke 10:34—The Good Samaritan “bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine.”

• 2 Kings 20:7—Isaiah tells Hezekiah’s servants to “prepare a lump of figs” as a poultice.

• James 5:14-15—Prayer and anointing with oil work together.

• 1 Corinthians 6:19-20—Our bodies are temples; we honor God by managing them well.

• Proverbs 3:7-8—“Fear the LORD… this will bring healing to your body.”

Practical Guidance for Today

• Seek wise counsel—both spiritual and medical—when facing health issues.

• Make thoughtful use of God-given resources: nutrition, exercise, rest, and, when appropriate, medication or natural remedies.

• Practice moderation; avoid solutions that create new bondage (e.g., substance abuse).

• Remember each situation is personal; what helped Timothy may not be universal, but the principle of using available means remains.

• Combine prayer with action—ask the Lord for healing while responsibly applying what He has provided.

Guardrails to Keep in Mind

• The verse is not a license for drunkenness; Scripture consistently condemns intoxication (Ephesians 5:18).

• It does not minimize God’s power to heal; it highlights that He often chooses to work through ordinary means.

• It does not endorse every natural remedy indiscriminately; discernment is still required.

Living It Out

• Evaluate your current health practices in light of stewardship: sleep, diet, exercise, preventive care.

• If struggling with chronic issues, consult professionals and trusted believers, praying for wisdom (James 1:5).

• Keep a balanced heart: depend on the Lord, yet embrace the lawful tools He has placed within reach.

In this way, the guidance Paul gave Timothy still shapes wise, faithful health decisions today.