The decisions we make about what we put into our bodies matter deeply. Drug use, whether recreational or harmful, is a topic of concern for many Christians. Today, we’ll explore what the Bible says about taking care of ourselves and living in a way that honors God.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Drug Addictions
What Does The Bible Say About Drug Use
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
This verse reminds us that our bodies are sacred and belong to God. As temples of the Holy Spirit, we are called to honor God with our bodies by keeping them pure and free from substance abuse.
Drug use defiles the body and hinders our ability to fully experience and serve God. We are called to be responsible stewards of our bodies and to refrain from anything that impairs our judgment or damages our health.
Galatians 5:19-21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
This passage lists various sinful acts, including drunkenness, which is associated with drug use. It warns us that engaging in such behaviors can hinder our inheritance of the kingdom of God.
Drug use falls under the category of indulging in the flesh, which can lead to addiction, impaired judgment, and destructive behaviors. As Christians, it is important to align our actions with God’s standards and avoid any practices that lead us away from His kingdom.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”
While this verse specifically mentions wine and strong drink, it can be applied to any substance that alters our state of mind. It emphasizes that those who are deceived by such substances lack wisdom.
Drug use can deceive and cloud our judgment, leading us astray from God’s wisdom and guidance. As believers, we are called to seek wisdom and discernment, avoiding any influences that hinder our ability to think clearly and make godly choices.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
This verse urges us to be vigilant and clear-minded, as the devil seeks to devour and destroy us. Drug use impairs our mental faculties and makes us vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks.
When we are under the influence of drugs, our ability to discern spiritual truths and resist temptation diminishes. It is important to remain sober-minded and guard against anything that could lead us into spiritual harm.
Romans 13:12-14
“The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”
In this passage, we are urged to live according to the light and not indulge in the sinful behaviors associated with darkness, including carousing, drunkenness, and drug use.
As followers of Christ, our focus should be on clothing ourselves with the righteousness of Jesus and resisting the desires of our flesh. Drug use distracts us from our calling to live in the light and can lead to destructive patterns of behavior.
1 Thessalonians 5:6-8
“So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.”
This passage exhorts us to be alert and sober, distinguishing ourselves from those who succumb to darkness and self-destructive behaviors.
As children of the day, we are called to be awake and spiritually aware, putting on the armour of faith, love, and hope. Drug use numbs our senses and inhibits our ability to fully engage in our Christian walk, hindering us from living as children of the light.
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
This verse assures us that God is faithful and will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can handle. In the midst of struggle and temptation, He will provide a way for us to resist.
When faced with the temptation to use drugs, we can rely on God’s strength to overcome. By seeking His guidance, surrounding ourselves with a supportive community, and turning our hearts and minds towards Him, we can find the strength to endure and overcome the allure of substance abuse.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
This verse encourages us to resist conformity to the patterns and behaviors of this world and instead be transformed by the renewing of our minds through the power of God.
Drug use is often a result of succumbing to worldly influences and seeking temporary pleasure. By focusing on renewing our minds and aligning our thoughts with God’s will, we can break free from the bondage of drug addiction and find true fulfillment in His good and perfect plan for our lives.
Romans 6:13
“Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.”
In this verse, we are reminded to present ourselves to God as instruments of righteousness rather than allowing sin to use us for wicked purposes.
Drug use goes against God’s desire for us to live holy and righteous lives. By surrendering ourselves to God and offering every part of our being to Him, we can break free from the bondage of substance abuse and allow our lives to be used for His honorable purposes.
James 4:7-8
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
This passage encourages us to submit to God, resist the devil, and draw near to Him. It reminds us to purify our hearts and minds, turning away from double-mindedness and sin.
Drug use is often driven by a desire to escape or find temporary relief. However, true freedom and peace can only be found in submitting to God and drawing near to Him. By purifying our hearts and minds through His grace and seeking His presence, we can overcome the allure of drugs and find lasting satisfaction in Him.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
This verse emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences and avoiding the company of those who may lead us astray.
Drug use is often fueled by peer pressure and the desire to fit in. By choosing our friends wisely and surrounding ourselves with those who uplift and encourage us in our faith, we can resist the temptation to engage in substance abuse and maintain a strong character grounded in Christ.
Proverbs 23:29-35
“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end, it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. ‘They hit me,’ you will say, ‘but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?’”
This passage provides a vivid description of the consequences of alcohol abuse, cautioning against the allure and deception of addictive substances.
While specifically addressing wine, the principles can be applied to illicit drugs as well. Substance abuse may initially appear enticing and pleasurable, but it ultimately leads to woe, sorrow, confusion, and a desire for more. This passage serves as a warning against the deceptive nature of addictive substances and the destructive path they can lead us down.
Proverbs 14:12
“There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death.”
This proverb warns us that what may seem right or pleasurable in the moment can ultimately result in death.
Drug use often starts with the belief that it will bring pleasure, escape, or relief. However, it can quickly spiral into addiction, damaged relationships, health issues, and even death. This verse reminds us to seek God’s wisdom and discernment, as He alone can guide us on the path that leads to true life and fulfillment.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”
This verse warns against the deception and lack of wisdom that accompanies the use of wine and strong drink.
Like alcohol, drugs can deceive us into thinking they will provide pleasure or relief. However, they can quickly lead to addiction and destructive behaviors. This verse emphasizes the importance of wise decision-making and the recognition that true wisdom comes from God alone.
Isaiah 5:11
“Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.”
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah rebukes those who make seeking pleasure and indulgence a priority in their lives.
Drug use often involves seeking escape and pleasure at the expense of one’s well-being and responsibilities. It can consume our time, energy, and resources, leading to a destructive lifestyle. Isaiah’s warning reminds us to prioritize what is truly important, pursuing a life of purpose and dependence on God rather than the fleeting pleasures of substance abuse.
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
God’s grace, as mentioned in this verse, not only offers salvation but also serves as a teacher, guiding us away from ungodliness and worldly passions.
When faced with the temptation to indulge in drugs, we can rely on God’s grace to empower us to say “No” to ungodliness. Through the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives, reflecting His righteousness and resisting the allure of substance abuse.
Ephesians 5:18
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
In this verse, we are warned against the excessive consumption of wine, which leads to debauchery and sinful behavior.
While specifically addressing wine, the principle can be applied to any substance that leads to excessive indulgence. Instead of seeking temporary fulfillment through substance abuse, we are encouraged to be filled with the Holy Spirit, who brings lasting joy, peace, and satisfaction.
Psalm 119:11
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
This psalmist acknowledges the power of God’s Word in guarding against sin.
By immersing ourselves in Scripture and allowing its truths to dwell in our hearts, we can equip ourselves to resist the temptations of substance abuse. God’s Word serves as a powerful weapon in our spiritual battle, enabling us to overcome the allure of drugs and live in obedience to Him.
Psalm 1:1-3
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
This psalm describes the blessings that come to those who delight in and meditate on God’s law.
By avoiding the company of those who promote substance abuse, and instead delighting in the Lord’s commandments, we can flourish like a tree planted by streams of water. The more we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, the more we will find our desires aligning with His and the less appealing drug use will become.
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
In this verse, Paul encourages the Philippians to focus their thoughts on things that are honorable, just, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
Drug use often stems from dwelling on negative thoughts and seeking temporary relief. By intentionally cultivating a mindset focused on the goodness and beauty of God’s creation, we can guard against the allure of substance abuse. Fixing our thoughts on what is true and praiseworthy directs our hearts towards God and away from destructive behaviors.
1 Timothy 3:2-3
“Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.”
This passage provides qualities for overseers in the church, highlighting the importance of self-control and avoiding drunkenness.
As children of God, we are called to exhibit self-control in all aspects of our lives, including the use of substances. Drug use undermines our ability to live in a manner that honors God and represents His character. By fostering self-control and temperance, we can stand as examples of Christ’s love and reflect His qualities to the world.
Matthew 26:41
“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
This verse highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and prayerful to avoid falling into temptation.
Drug use often originates from a desire to escape or find relief from life’s challenges. By staying watchful and relying on the strength and guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can resist the allure of substance abuse. Recognizing our own weakness and dependence on God’s power encourages us to seek His help in moments of vulnerability.
John 8:36
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
In this verse, Jesus declares that true freedom comes from being set free by Him.
Drug addiction is a form of bondage that robs individuals of their freedom and hinders their ability to live fully in Christ. However, through His sacrifice and resurrection, Jesus offers complete freedom from the power of sin and addiction. By surrendering our lives to Him and relying on His strength, we can experience true liberty and walk in the abundant life He has prepared for us.
Hebrews 12:1-2
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
This passage encourages us to cast aside anything that hinders us from living a life of faith and perseverance.
Drug use entangles and enslaves, preventing us from running the race God has marked out for us. By fixing our eyes on Jesus, the ultimate example of endurance and faith, we can find the strength to break free from addictive behaviors and pursue the abundant life He offers.
Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
This psalm reassures us of God’s faithfulness in hearing the cries of the righteous and delivering them from their troubles.
Drug addiction can leave individuals feeling brokenhearted and crushed in spirit. However, God is near to those who are hurting, offering salvation and healing. Through His mercy and grace, He can deliver us from the grip of addiction and restore us to a place of wholeness and spiritual well-being.
Psalm 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
This verse is a heartfelt plea for God to create a pure heart and renew a steadfast spirit within the psalmist.
Drug use can lead to a corrupted spirit and a heart in need of purification. By turning to God and seeking His transformative work, we can experience inner renewal and restoration. His power is sufficient to break the chains of addiction and bring about lasting change in our lives.