RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages During Church Services?
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 6:54:03 AM
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SonInMe1
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I never said one cannot drink in the sanctuary.
I challenge you to think why you do, if there is a true need or not, and would never suggest there be a church policy about this other than individual churches right to govern the way they want to
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 11:47:04 AM
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Christophilos
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In my church we sit and drink tea/coffee throughout the service. Also we eat biscuits, or occasionally have a meal at the same time. But then, we are not formal at all. (And lots of us have a dry mouth problem - medications - so it really wouldn't be an issue for us).
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Faith must not be slow to reason, nor reason to adore.
-Lakdasa J de Mel
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 12:13:33 PM
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Papa-san
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If you have a need to drink some water during the service, as I have, then do so. If I go more than 15 minutes without a sip, my tongue will cleave to the roof of my mouth to a point that it will begin to bleed if I force some separation. I become unable to sing in about five minutes.
If you have a need for water during the service, or even feel you want it, there is no reason for you not to, unless you are using it to get attention or if you are distracting others severely.
If people at your place of worship have a problem with this, then it might be time to look for a church where the pastor has done some teaching to his congregation on not being judgemental of others. Otherwise, you might find that you aren't even dealing with true Christians, which also means it is time to move on...
Until then, be respectful and sip your water quietly and discretely. When and if someone has the courage to actually say something to you about it, just smile and say,"I'm so glad that true Christians do not judge others based on their own ideals... Want a sip?"
< Message edited by Papa-san -- 2/4/2008 12:21:47 PM >
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 12:30:05 PM
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timzagain
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I live in a year round hot climate and I'd never seen people drinking water during church services until I started attending our present church 5 years ago! I was shocked! LOL! My grandmother would have had a heart attack!
At first I just rolled my eyes - I worship with an affluent, somewhat pampered congregation and I just wrote off the water drinking as part of the "constant need for comfort" mentality!
Now I am one of the water drinkers. Over the years, I've had to step up my water consumption. Taking an occasional discreet sip of water allows me to focus on the service, instead of focusing on "gee, I'm so thirsty. I can't wait til church is over so I can go get a soda!" for an hour and a half!
If I thought for a minute that my water drinking was a distraction to me or others in the service, I'd stop! I stopped wearing a favourite charm bracelet because I realized it was a distraction to others. I don't wear a watch to church - I'm one of those people who looks at my watch incessantly even when I'm not in a hurry! My OWN watch was a distraction to me so out it went!
Having said that, I draw the line at consumption of other drinks and food during the service! Stains from spills is one area of concern. I think the food smells, wrappers and just the sight of attractively prepared/ packaged snacks would be a huge distraction to others!
To me, eating during the service is a lack of self discipline. And yes, I do understand that some medical conditions are exacerbated by a lack of regular meals. I am a migraine sufferer and for me, meal skipping is an absolute no-no! Why not time your meals so you aren't likely to be overly hungry in church? We make sure that we eat something before we leave for church, rather than spending the duration of the service dwelling on the hunger and the embarrasingly loud stomach rumblings!
I also like to pay attention to the quality of what we eat and drink before the service. My daughter has been diagnosed with ADHD - concentration is challenging for her at best and I am not going to compound the problem by loading her up with sugar before church or school!
When I worked in children's ministry, I'd often find myself with 10 - 15 six to eight year olds, whose parents filled them up with sodas, candy etc before the service. A room full of kids bouncing off the walls with excess sugar makes life very difficult for children's ministry/ Sunday school teachers!
Off my soapbox now!
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 1:05:22 PM
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Papa-san
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Kind of funny experience here. My ADHD daughter has had a near total turnaround because of us following the suggestion of one of her teachers: She supplements her breakfast with a side of Mountain Dew. Evidently, the caffeine is a safer alternative to the other types of speed kids with the condition are taking... If she doesn't have any before school or church, she tends to be a lot more flighty and fidgety. It's weird, because the actual effect is the exact opposite of what one would think!
(However, the bouncing kids on sugar thing applies to the 'normal' kids. Don't load them up and expect strangers to deal with it!
< Message edited by Papa-san -- 2/4/2008 1:41:11 PM >
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 4:08:21 PM
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nicole6598
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My pastor has a glass of water on his pulpit, should he not be drinking either?
I am breastfeeding and need to keep fluids up but it seems like in some of these churches that would be a no-no too. What about the person who has a cold? What about if you are just plain thirsty!!!
Man oh man.
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Proud Aussie, Wife, Mother, Woman!
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 5:53:58 PM
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MyCatSmokey2006
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quote:
Having said that, I draw the line at consumption of other drinks and food during the service! Stains from spills is one area of concern. I think the food smells, wrappers and just the sight of attractively prepared/ packaged snacks would be a huge distraction to others!
Yeah, I would find the smells of my favorite foods, such as popcorn or pizza very distracting! Imagine feasting on a slice of extra cheesy pepperoni pizza in one hand while holding a hymnal in the other! 
However, I want to add that some people with medical conditions might HAVE to eat during the service and would become ill if they didn't. For example, diabetics who experience low blood sugar episodes have to eat something right away or they could eventually have a seizure. I know this because I've seen this happen with people I know.
Therefore, if you see someone eating or drinking in church, don't assume that they're being disrespectful to God or the church. There may be hidden medical reasons why a person may choose to do this. I think that if Jesus were preaching in my church and someone started eating food or drinking water or coffee, I don't think that He's point to them and say, "That's not allowed in here!" He'd go on preaching as if He hadn't seen anything. That's the way we should act toward one another.
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Melissa
VOTE MCCAIN ON NOVEMBER 4TH!
Who Am I?
Visit my Cat Post! 
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 6:17:03 PM
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SonInMe1
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I would say....if you are so thirsty all the time that you need a drink every few minutes that you do indeed have a medical need and should go to the doctors and find out what the problem is.
Personally my thirst is directly influenced by the amount of salt and sugar I consume. When I was on a salt free fat free sugar free diet I was seldom thirsty.
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 6:31:54 PM
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OLEEguacamole
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thirst is a side effect of aging and many many medications also.
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there's life in a pit.
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/4/2008 6:48:58 PM
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Papa-san
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quote:
ORIGINAL: SonInMe1
I would say....if you are so thirsty all the time that you need a drink every few minutes that you do indeed have a medical need and should go to the doctors and find out what the problem is.
Personally my thirst is directly influenced by the amount of salt and sugar I consume. When I was on a salt free fat free sugar free diet I was seldom thirsty.
LOL... Yes, there is a medical condition that I suffer from. The medications I require to keep from having a seizure (which would be significantly more distracting than any fifty people drinking their water) cause the dry-mouth condition to be worse. I don't do salt, andhave a very minimal amount of fat and sugar in my diet.
These reasons and conditions are why it is necessary for judgemental people to re-evaluate their understanding of scripture and Gods way of loving the members of His Body. Then they won't let ridiculous nonsense distract them when they should be worrying about whatever it is that they do that is distracting to others...
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/5/2008 8:27:55 AM
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SonInMe1
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quote:
These reasons and conditions are why it is necessary for judgemental people to re-evaluate their understanding of scripture and Gods way of loving the members of His Body.
While this is true it also has nothing to do with me, or my professed position. If I am being percieved this way...and that is a big if...then I suggest rereading my posts
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/5/2008 8:54:39 AM
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Papa-san
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quote:
ORIGINAL: SonInMe1
While this is true it also has nothing to do with me, or my professed position. If I am being percieved this way...and that is a big if...then I suggest rereading my posts
I apologize if this seemed like it was directed at you... it wasn't. My point is that no Christian should be worrying about whether or not someone else has a drink in the sanctuary. There should be no more thought regarding this than there is to how much or how little hair someone has. It isn't going to stop the thoughts, but it's all about what we do with them after they come.
If you don't want water in your sanctuary, don't bring it in. The person who does bring it in has a valid reason for doing so, and it is between them and God, which is something you or I have no say in, thus shouldn't even contemplate for a millisecond.
That's like me saying I don't believe that people should wear jeans into the sanctuary. Who am I to say anything about that?!? I did not purchase a pair of slacks for them, and even if I did, I can't say they have to wear them... The fact that the OP even had to ask the question is a travesty in it's own right...
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/5/2008 1:50:06 PM
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fb7312
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In our Sunday evening meeting every week we have coffee tables, out jugs of cold drinks and glasses on them, plus just about ten minutes before the meeting starts tea and coffee are offered for anyone who wishes to have a hot drink.
We have been doing this for about three years now, it does not usually detract from the meeting, and gives an informal feel to the meeting, which makes any newcomers relaxed and at ease.
As on of the leaders in the church we have never to my knowledge frowned on anyone who brought water or soda into any of the meetings.
I would think the lord would want you to be comfortable in you worship to him.
Perhaps you should speak to one of your leaders if this is a problem.
God bless you.
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/5/2008 6:52:10 PM
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SonInMe1
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quote:
My point is that no Christian should be worrying about whether or not someone else has a drink in the sanctuary
I disagree in that we all are accountable in some fashion.
I don't worry about it. I offered my opinion as a challenge to others that they look into themselves and the reasons why they do certain things, in this case, bringing drinks to service.
Again I think the crux of the issue is the same as why we fast. Giving up our carnalities, for a time, to focus on the Lord. Obviously that can't be done for everyone, given the medical needs for some, but I don't think its a major sacrifice to go without a drink for the short time you are in service.
Like I said, we have a coffee "shop" set out front of the church with donuts and refreshments. We also have multiple services and I believe the majority of people consume after their service...but I am sure some do before and I don't see a lot of coffees in service. Its not preached about. There are no rules against it.
Most of the time because I work nights I go to church with little sleep. I haven't stopped to get coffee once. To me, its a matter of respect. To honor God with all you have for a time.
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/6/2008 9:24:14 AM
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Papa-san
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To you it would not be a major sacrifice. Probably not even a minor one. To me, an hour and a half service would have 75 minutes worth of it completely wasted, as there would be absolutely no way in the world for me to concentrate after the first 15. I would have to get up and leave the service so many times that I would miss much of it, as would all the others around me who would be completely distracted every ten minutes or so when I head to the kitchen... Not to mention the distraction of my return.
Take what I deal with for one day. After the first two hours when you are crying about how miserable you are and how bad it sucks, you might understand.
I DO honor God with all I have! If I have to leave every ten minutes or so, it would detract from my ability to honor Him, as well as the ability of those around me to do so...
< Message edited by Papa-san -- 2/6/2008 9:33:54 AM >
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/6/2008 7:04:18 PM
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SonInMe1
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Please re-read my post. I made the challenge not to people who need a drink but to those who wanted a drink. I think that has been made perfectly clear.
I think.
Same with the fasting thing. Some people like diabetics, cannot go long periods of time without food. Maybe an hour fast...or 15 minutes....is all that is possible for them. These are exceptions because absolute truth has no basis unless love is a component.
Can....please notice the correct usage of this word....you go without a drink for an hour?
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/7/2008 11:37:57 AM
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Memaw.
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quote:
ORIGINAL: MyCatSmokey2006
I have problems with dry mouth due to medication, so sometimes I take a bottle of water or soda with me to church. I take a sip or two during the service, but I sense the disapproval of other church members when I do it and consequently I feel conspiculus.(sp?) Should I continue to do this or leave my drinks at home?
BTW, the water and sodas have screw top lids that can be closed, preventing spilling.
I read all 5 pages of this thread. 
If one has a medical need, by all means take a drink with you.
If you are part of the worship team or the pastor, have a sip.
I have been in services before where someone brings a 32 oz Dr. Pepper and noisily consumes it.
It is distracting and IMHO it is rude.
I somewhat agree with SonInMe on this, if it is possible to go without the food or drink during the service, then do so.
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Life is uncertain...eat dessert first!
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/7/2008 11:52:37 AM
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Papa-san
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SonInMe,
No offense intended! I did understand this, but sometimes get a bit carried away. I agree that if one can avoid it, one should. I used to before this condition started. (Except for our Saturday morning mens group, but we all had coffee, and it was very informal...)
Whenever possible, it should be avoided. I do want to ask that those who do observe someone drinking in the service, to be aware of the possibility of being judgemental. I am a 41 year old male 6' tall, and am in what looks to be reasonably good shape. People can't believe the list of physical ailments I have by looking at me. Just know that appearances can be deceiving, so give people the benefit of the doubt. If your church frowns upon it, ask the person about it. Challenging them to avoid bringing drinks into the sanctuary is a good thing if they don't have a reason to need it!
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/7/2008 2:24:46 PM
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stateofgrace
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quote:
ORIGINAL: SonInMe1
Please re-read my post. I made the challenge not to people who need a drink but to those who wanted a drink. I think that has been made perfectly clear.
I think.
Same with the fasting thing. Some people like diabetics, cannot go long periods of time without food. Maybe an hour fast...or 15 minutes....is all that is possible for them. These are exceptions because absolute truth has no basis unless love is a component.
Can....please notice the correct usage of this word....you go without a drink for an hour?
Sometimes we aren't aware of the "tone" our written language might convey to others reading it. I know I'm guilty of overlooking that sometimes myself.
The tone I pick up from your posts, SonInMe1, is that when you encounter this sort of situation, you presume that any particular individual doesn't have a need for having that water bottle with them in the service. Sort of a presumption of guilt.
Now, I could be totally wrong about the tone and that may not be what you intended to convey at all.
I'm really glad that I attend a church where this is not a problem. In the main service (n the sanctuary), only water is allowed, but I've not heard anyone say they have trouble with that. In the casual service (in the gym) coffee, juice, tea and water are served. Everyone that attends the casual service on an ongoing basis knows pretty much what to expect.
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less junk, more Jesus
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RE: Is It Okay To Drink Water and Other Beverages Durin... - 2/7/2008 9:22:19 PM
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SonInMe1
Posts: 3522
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quote:
but sometimes get a bit carried away.
Oh gee...I...never do this......
gets struck by lightening.... 
quote:
when you encounter this sort of situation, you presume that any particular individual doesn't have a need for having that water bottle with them in the service. Sort of a presumption of guilt.
There is a grain of truth in this, however I would never go up to someone and say you can't drink water or that you are not worshipping "correctly". I was taught that the sanctuary is a special place...a place of reverence where we gather to worship God.
I will also add it never occured to me there was medical conditions where constant drinking was neccesary...so I did get something out of this discussion. Its one of those reasons why I come here...I just ain't God and don't know it all.
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
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I didn't read where you were from at first so when I read that you eat biscuits in church, I was thinking like American (bread) biscuits! It looked a little weird for me. LOL! 
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