Nazarites took vows, including one that kept them from wine. To ensure they remained true to this, they couldn't drink wine vinegar or strong liquors. They couldn't even touch grape juice, fresh or dried grapes. They avoided anything related to the vine, steering clear of any appearance of evil. This is a lesson for those set apart by the Lord: we're called to stay away from sin in all its forms, not just the obvious ones.

Living carefully is often mocked today, but remember, it's the safest and happiest path. Compromising with the world puts you in danger. If you taste the grapes of Sodom, you'll drink the wine of Gomorrah. Just like a tiny crack in a Dutch sea-bank can lead to flooding, even a small step toward worldliness can lead to sin.

A Nazarite knew that even grape juice might have fermented slightly, so he couldn't be sure he kept his vow intact. Similarly, a Christian who compromises can't have a clear conscience. When in doubt, assume things are wrong. We shouldn't flirt with temptation but run from it. It's better to be called a Puritan than a hypocrite. Walking carefully may require self-denial, but it brings deep, fulfilling joy.