The Danger Of Drug Abuse And Substance Addiction Series

THE DANGER OF DRUG ABUSE AND SUBSTANCE ADDICTION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Proverbs 20:1

Supporting Texts: Ephesians 5:18, Galatians 5:19-21, 1 Peter 5:8, Romans 12:1-2, John 8:36

INTRODUCTION:

In today’s society, drug abuse and substance addiction are destroying destinies, tearing families apart, and claiming lives at an alarming rate. This epidemic is not only found in the streets but also among students, professionals, and even churchgoers. Satan uses addiction as a stronghold to enslave people and rob them of the abundant life God has planned for them.

The Bible makes it clear that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. When drugs, alcohol, or any addictive substances are introduced into the body, they defile what God has made holy. Substance abuse clouds judgment, opens doors to demonic influence, and distances a person from God’s purpose.

God’s desire is not only to warn us about these dangers but to deliver us completely. Through the power of the cross, no addiction is too strong to be broken. There is healing, restoration, and victory for anyone who turns to Christ for freedom.

1. DRUG ABUSE DESTROYS THE TEMPLE OF GOD

Our bodies are not ours to abuse—they belong to God for His glory.

a) The Body Is God’s Temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

We are stewards of our physical bodies; drug abuse defiles what God owns.

b) Addiction Weakens the Mind and Spirit (Romans 12:1-2)

Instead of being renewed, the mind becomes enslaved by chemical control.

c) Substance Abuse Invites Destruction (Galatians 5:19-21)

Addictions are part of the works of the flesh that lead to ruin.

d) Alcohol and Drugs Impair Judgment (Proverbs 20:1)

Those led by wine or drugs are not wise—they make foolish decisions.

Biblical Example: Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-2) were consumed by fire when they offered strange fire, likely under the influence of wine (v. 9). Substance abuse hinders spiritual discernment.

2. ADDICTION OPENS THE DOOR TO SPIRITUAL BONDAGE

Addiction is not just a physical problem; it’s also spiritual.

a) Addiction Is a Form of Slavery (John 8:34)

Whatever controls you becomes your master.

b) The Devil Uses Addiction to Steal Destiny (John 10:10)

Satan's aim is to kill, steal, and destroy through dependency.

c) Addictions Can Become Idols (1 Corinthians 10:14)

Anything you cannot say “no” to becomes a false god in your life.

d) Spiritual Alertness Is Lost (1 Peter 5:8)

Drugs dull spiritual senses and expose one to demonic attacks.

Biblical Example: The demoniac of Gadara (Mark 5:1-13) was tormented and isolated, likely addicted or oppressed. Only Jesus could set him free.

3. JESUS CAME TO SET THE ADDICTED FREE

No matter the level of bondage, Jesus offers total deliverance.

a) The Truth of Christ Brings Freedom (John 8:36)

Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.

b) God's Power Breaks Every Yoke (Isaiah 10:27)

Addiction is a yoke, and God’s anointing destroys it.

c) Freedom Comes Through Repentance and Renewal (Romans 12:2)

Transformation begins with a changed mind and heart.

d) Healing Comes Through the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:17)

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

Biblical Example: Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:2) was delivered from seven demons—Jesus restores dignity to the broken.

4. STAYING FREE REQUIRES ACCOUNTABILITY AND DISCIPLESHIP

Freedom is sustained through a Christ-centred lifestyle and community.

a) Walk in the Spirit, Not the Flesh (Galatians 5:16)

Daily submission to the Holy Spirit prevents relapse.

b) Renew Your Environment and Relationships (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Bad company corrupts good character—change your circle.

c) Be Planted in a Bible-believing Church (Hebrews 10:25)

Spiritual fellowship strengthens your walk.

d) Seek Counsel and Discipleship (Proverbs 11:14)

Wise counsel and mentoring build spiritual resilience.

Biblical Example: The lame man healed in Acts 3:1-9 stayed close to the apostles after his deliverance. Community matters in maintaining freedom.

CONCLUSION:

Drug abuse and substance addiction are not just social problems—they are spiritual attacks on destiny, identity, and purpose. But Jesus came to destroy every yoke and deliver us from the bondage of sin and addiction. Whether you’re struggling with drugs, alcohol, pornography, or any other form of bondage, there is hope in Christ.

God does not condemn you—He invites you to freedom. Total deliverance is possible through the power of the cross, the help of the Holy Spirit, and a supportive Christian community. Don’t wait for things to get worse. Cry out to God today and take the first step toward healing and restoration.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, deliver every soul under the bondage of addiction.

2. Father, help me to honour my body as Your holy temple.

3. Break every yoke of chemical dependency in my life and others.

4. Surround me with godly influences that promote holiness and purity.

5. Let the power of the Holy Spirit keep me from every form of temptation.