It was the Irish playwright Oscar Wilde, who quipped, “I can resist anything except temptation.” It’s humorous because it’s curious—what else is there to resist except temptation? We can understand Wilde’s capitulation to temptation; it’s around every corner in life. Not to have a plan to defeat temptation is to plan to give in.
Step one in such a plan is to pray as Jesus taught His disciples: “And do not lead us into temptation.” The Greek word for temptation can be translated either as “temptation” or “trials.” We know that God never tempts anyone (James 1:13) but He does allow tests (James 1:2) and leads us into situations to prove our faith (Matthew 4:1). So Jesus’ prayer not to be led into temptation probably means, “Don’t lead us into a situation in which we might be overcome by sin.” That is, don’t lead us into something we aren’t mature enough to handle. Fortunately, the Bible promises exactly that: With every temptation God provides a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Unlike Oscar Wilde, the Christian can resist every temptation—by relying on the strength God gives and the desire to please Him. When tempted, pray and look for the way of escape.
Each temptation leaves us better or worse; neutrality is impossible. Erwin W. Lutzer
Drugs will not make one’s problems disappear; they will only delay the onset of having to deal with problems and will often create more problems. SEAN MCDOWELL
In my past, I smoked plenty of marijuana, so I get the draw. Being high feels good, and when life stinks who doesn’t long for a good escape? But as Christians, our escape route must look different from the non-believing world’s. We are to turn toward God, not drugs. He is our pathway to freedom, unlike drugs, which often entangle us.
While the Bible speaks directly to alcohol it doesn’t address the use of marijuana. Yes, I’ve heard the desperate attempts to justify weed usage on the basis of Genesis 1:29 where God says, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth.” But do we really think God had getting high in mind? Talk about a poor use of Scripture. And would we use the same logic for the coco leaf—the raw material for producing the drug cocaine? Of course not! We are to steward God’s creation wisely.
Now, you might be asking, “What’s wrong with smoking a little pot, especially since it’s legal in certain states now?”
First, just because marijuana is legal in some states doesn’t make it moral. As Christians, Scripture, not law, is to serve as our moral compass. Remember, we are to follow the law of the land so far as it aligns with our moral principles, but the moment the law conflicts with the law of God we are to side with God (Acts 4:18-19).
Second, unlike alcohol, marijuana can’t be enjoyed in moderation, especially today. When I smoked weed all it took was one good hit of some green bud and one could have a pretty good high. With today’s increased levels of THC the marijuana is far more potent. And while I’ve met countless people who can enjoy a glass of wine and be seemingly unaffected, I’ve never met someone in my past that smoked weed for the purpose of not getting high.
Third, marijuana has been medically proven to have harmful side effects—from laziness to destroying brain cells, which reduces one’s IQ—two things the Bible forbids (see Proverbs 6:9-11 and 1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Fourth, marijuana often serves as a gateway drug. It spikes one’s curiosity for other drugs, leaving many wondering, “I wonder what _______ would feel like?” It has a way of capturing many of its participants and turning them into full-blown drug addicts.
With the insights provided by medical research and through examination of biblical principles, it’s amazing that the question of marijuana usage is even up for debate among the Christian constituency. Avoid it, friend.
Thought to Ponder
Ultimate peace is never found through using drugs. It’s only found through Jesus Christ.
Memory Verse
Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age (Titus 2:12).
One-Minute Apologist Video : Bobby Conway, “Is It Okay to Smoke Marijuana?”
I am a writer who sells vintage books and toys. I write about the whimsy of life, family, thrifting, everything and nothing and whispers of the Holy Spirit.
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