Addiction

Addiction – Basic Information

Many people view drug abuse and addiction as strictly a social problem. Parents, teens, older adults, and other members of the community tend to characterize people who take drugs as morally weak or as having criminal tendencies. They believe that drug abusers and addicts should be able to stop taking drugs if they are willing to change their behavior.

These myths have not only stereotyped those with drug-related problems, but also their families, their communities, and the health care professionals who work with them. Drug abuse and addiction comprise a public health problem that affects many people and has wide- ranging social consequences.

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How can I find peace and hope in the midst of desperate circumstances?

How does one find peace and hope in the midst of desperate circumstances?

John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Ephesians 2:14: For he himself is our peace.”

Philippians 4:7: And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

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Can a person be saved and smoke cigarettes?

Can a person be saved and smoke cigarettes?

Unsaved people are not called to perfect their lives before they come to the cross; the work in the lives only begins at the cross. When you accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, you are then saved. However, it does not stop there. In making Jesus, Lord of your life, you have surrendered your will and fleshly desires to the Holy Spirit. “When he comes (the Holy Spirit) he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment” (John 16:8).

By surrendering yourself to the Lord, you are saying, “Lord, move in my life and help me to be who you want me to be.” You must be willing to see where God wants to grow you and then act accordingly.

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Should a Christian gamble or play the lotteries?

Should a Christian gamble or play the lotteries?

No. For every winner, there are always losers. In the case of lotteries there are sometimes hundreds of thousands or millions of losers for every few winners. The winner gets his gain by hurting others, even though the loser has chosen to put himself at risk.

God’s Word teaches that we are to love others more than ourselves. When we do things that hurt others, we violate that principle. It is sin. Lest we think that no one is hurt by gambling, it would be enlightening to talk to professional counselors who have dealt with people who have gambling addictions. Ask about the wives, husbands, and children of gamblers. These are the real losers.

Our Bodies Belong To God

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What does God think about smoking?

What does God think about smoking?

God considers the human body His sacred Temple. The literal, flesh and blood bodies of people have been considered the Temple of God since the Holy Spirit came to dwell within believers, in Jesus Christ, at Pentecost (Acts, chapter 2).

Even nonbelievers are, potentially, the Temple of God. He is against anything that defiles (or harms) His Temple. He loves His creation called man, and has gone to great lengths–particularly in giving Old Testament Law–to instruct in what should and should not be consumed by the flesh body.

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I just want to end my pain. Is it wrong to feel that way?

I am in constant pain. Sometimes, I just want to be out of my misery, whatever it takes. Is it wrong to feel that way?

It is not wrong to want to be in God’s presence, free from the effects of this world. It isn’t wrong to desire relief from your physical ailments either. But, suicidal thoughts are symptoms of a lack of hope and trust in the Lord. He has a perfect purpose for you, even in the midst of your ailment.

God loves you so much and He has a plan for you, even in the midst of your suffering. Look at what He accomplished through Jesus’ suffering. He can still use you to bless those around you as the watch your strong witness for Christ.

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