Rom 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

What does to be sober mean? When I hear the word, I first think of not being intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. However; sober, soberly, and soberness are mentioned fifteen times in the New Testament, but never in the context of alcohol or drugs, but in the context of spiritual and sound mindedness. Sober mindedness was one of the Greek virtues praised by Aristotle. It means soundness of mind, prudence, discretion, moderation, especially regarding the emotions. The Apostle Paul expands on this by saying that for us to have this soberness we need the measure of faith that God gives us. Paul is about to teach about spiritual gifts. He warns against being boastful of the gifts we receive of God. We must with a sound mind remain humble; otherwise, we will not be spiritually productive with the gifts God has made us the stewards of.



In Titus chapter two, Paul writes that all men, young and old, male and female are to be sober (Titus 2:4, 6, 12). Tit 2:11-12  For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

Soberness is a qualification for Christian service. Every Christian should be characterized by spiritual alertness and seriousness of purpose. As Peter says, 1Pe 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, …

We must not be driven by our emotions (anger, bitterness, pride, lusts, etc.), but we must be guided by a spiritual mindset. We cast down those evil imaginations (2 Cor 10:5). 

Are you sober minded?

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry