What to say when the coffee questions come.

We get asked a lot of questions as members of the Church—especially when our lifestyle doesn’t match the world around us.

Here’s a common one: “Why don’t you drink coffee?” Even if you haven’t been asked this question yet, it can be helpful to think through a response ahead of time. So … what would you say?

As a refresher, in Doctrine and Covenants 89:9, the Lord tells us to avoid “hot drinks.” Joseph Smith and other Church leaders have since explained that this means coffee and certain kinds of tea. When we follow the Word of Wisdom, we are promised good health, wisdom, and protection.

Here are some things you could say when the coffee questions come:

• “I belong to a Church that teaches us not to drink certain things.”
• “I promised God I’d try to obey Him. There are scriptures that tell us not to drink certain things.”
• “I live by a health code that is part of my religion. It includes not drinking certain things.”

Depending on the questions your friends have, you may end up telling them about the Church, the Word of Wisdom, and how we have a prophet on earth today.

Now it’s your turn to practice explaining!

Notes: Adapted from “What should I say when people ask why we don’t drink tea or coffee?” in the August 2021 For the Strength of Youth magazine.