Claiming To Be A Christian While Being Controlled By A Harmful Substance. Series

As Christians, we are called to live a life that honors God and reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ. However, for many, a glaring contradiction exists between their faith and their addiction to tobacco.

This is a critical issue that affects many of us which is addiction. Whether it's tobacco, drugs, alcohol, or other substances, addiction has a grip on our lives, our families, and our communities. But as Christians, we have a powerful message of hope and freedom.

In Romans 8:1-11, we read about the struggle between our old nature and the new life we have in Christ. Paul writes, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Jesus Christ the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:1-2).

Addiction is a manifestation of the "law of sin and death." It's a cycle of bondage, shame, and despair. But as believers, we have been set free from this law. We have been given a new life in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

In verse 5, Paul contrasts the mindset of the flesh with the mindset of the Spirit. Those who live according to the flesh focus on their sinful desires, but those who live according to the Spirit focus on the things of God. Which mindset are you operating in today?

The good news is that we don't have to remain in bondage. Through Christ, we can experience the freedom of faith. We can break the chains of addiction and live a life that honors God.

In verse 11, Paul reminds us that the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead lives in us. This means we have the power to overcome even the strongest of addictions.

So, what can we do?

- Seek help and support

- Pray for strength and guidance

- Surrender your struggles to God

- Find accountability in your faith community

Remember, freedom from addiction is not just about quitting a substance; it's about surrendering our lives to Christ and living according to the Spirit.

In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, we are reminded that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are instructed to honor God with our bodies. Tobacco use, which leads to a myriad of health problems and addiction, clearly contradicts this principle. The grip of nicotine is a form of bondage, enslaving individuals to a harmful habit that defies God's design for our well-being.

Jesus teaches us to seek freedom from the chains of sin, saying, "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36). Yet, tobacco addiction is a form of slavery, controlling our actions and choices. As Christians, we are called to be guided by the Holy Spirit, not by the grip of nicotine.

The apostle Paul writes, "Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). Tobacco use is a conformity to the world's standards, rather than a transformation through Christ's power.

We are called to be good examples, to "let our light shine before others" (Matthew 5:16). Tobacco addiction undermines this witness, as it reveals a lack of self-control and a disregard for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.

Breaking free from tobacco addiction requires surrender, prayer, and support. As Christians, we have the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome even the strongest of addictions. Let us seek help, accountability, and the strength of our faith community to overcome this contradiction and live a life that truly honors God.

Bible verses :

- 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

- Romans 6:16 - "Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness?"

- 2 Peter 2:19 - "They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruptible things; for if anyone is overcome by something, he is enslaved by it."

Let us embrace the freedom of faith and break the chains of addiction. May we live as testimonies of God's power and grace, and may our lives reflect the truth that we are no longer slaves to sin but children of the living God.