Articles, Bible Questions and Discipleship Guides

Vincent from Georgia asked: “If a Christian is addicted to alcohol, pornography, or drugs, will God still send them to hell, even though they're constantly fighting the addiction?”

Vincent, 

As we mature in Christ, the battle with sin does not get easier. It often gets more difficult. I remember as a young seminary student, visiting the office of one of my dear professors who was in his sixties. I said to him “It must be wonderful to be an older man and not have the struggle with things like a lust or other fleshly temptations.” He chuckled and then said to me: “Stephen, the older I get, the more difficult it becomes.” That was a great lesson for me as a young man. 

The longer a person walks with Christ, the more His character is formed in you. As that happens, you become more sensitive to your sins. There are things about myself that bother me now that didn't bother me when I was a 20 year old. Why? Because sin I thought I could manage didn’t bother me then. 

So Vincent, believers can and do continue to sin. For every one of us, it's going to be different. The struggle might be pride or greed or unkindness. The struggle might be those that you mentioned—drunkenness, pornography or drug use. However, a believer should never become comfortable with his sin or begin to cherish that sin. Loving and cherishing sin is an evidence that the person is not a believer because the Holy Spirit lives in all true believers and causes us to regret our sin.  

Keep in mind that sin is always a choice. God tells us that with every temptation comes a way of excape. We never have an excuse for our sin. Labeling something an addiction does not alleviate the responsibility to remove the sin from our lives. We don't just fall into sin helplessly. Whenever we sin, it’s because we wanted to.

I've often told people that the mark of maturity is not that you don’t sin, but the span of time between your sin and confession. How long does it take you? Does it take you a day? Does it take you an hour? It only should take a moment. That's maturity. 

So Vincent, a persistent struggle with sin does not keep a Christian from heaven. But the way that person deals with his sin is an indicator of his spiritual health. If he confesses, repents and seeks God's help to shun that sin, he is acting as God desires. If he loves, nurtures and never confesses his sin, he is not acting how God desires. In case of the latter, I suggest spending time evaluating if he truly is a child of God.

Thanks for your question,

Stephen

Note: Here are some other articles from Stephen Davey:

Go Deeper:

Addiction and Faith: A Christian's Path to Healing and Recovery

Many Christians find themselves in an internal conflict: their deeply held faith clashes with the crushing grip of addiction. This article explores critical questions like "Is addiction a sin?", "Can addicts go to heaven?", and how to find salvation while battling this disease.

Understanding Addiction: More Than a Choice

The Bible often discusses exercising self-control and avoiding behaviors that damage the body, which is God’s temple. However, addiction is a complex medical condition that goes beyond simple willpower. While initial substance use may be a choice and perhaps a sinful choice, the changes addiction makes in the brain significantly alter decision-making, making it extremely difficult to stop.

How Does Addiction Manifest Itself?

Addiction can manifest in various ways, depending on the substance or behavior involved. Common forms include:

• Substance Addiction: Dependence on drugs or alcohol, leading to physical and psychological cravings.
• Behavioral Addiction: Engaging in activities such as gambling, internet use, or shopping compulsively, despite negative consequences.
• Process Addiction: Involvement in activities like eating, exercising, or sexual behaviors to an unhealthy degree.

What Are Some Signs of Addictive Behavior?

Recognizing addiction early can help in seeking timely intervention. Signs of addictive behavior include:

• Cravings: Intense urges to engage in the addictive behavior or consume the substance.
• Loss of Control: Inability to limit the amount or frequency of the behavior.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring work, school, or family obligations due to the addiction.
• Tolerance: Needing more of the substance or behavior to achieve the same effect.
• Withdrawal: Experiencing physical or emotional symptoms when not engaging in the behavior or consuming the substance.
• Isolation: Withdrawing from social activities and relationships to engage in the addiction.

Addiction is Not a Sign of Utter Failure

Blaming yourself or feeling that God has abandoned you is understandable, but it's vital to remember that addiction does not define you. God's love and forgiveness are boundless, extending to all who struggle. If you have an addiction, you are grappling with a serious condition. You need help and hope, both of which Christ offers you.

Reconciling Addiction with Salvation

The Bible is unequivocal about the path to salvation: acknowledging our sins, repenting, and accepting Jesus Christ as our Savior. Addiction does not nullify this. If you genuinely desire recovery and seek God's help, the path to salvation remains open. If you are a Christian with an addiction, your addiction does not change your status as a son or daughter of God.

How Does Addiction Negatively Impact Relationships?

Addiction doesn't just affect the individual; it impacts relationships with family, friends, and the faith community:

• Family Strain: Addiction can cause trust issues, financial strain, and emotional turmoil within the family unit.
• Social Isolation: Addictive behaviors often lead to withdrawal from social activities and friendships.
• Spiritual Disconnection: Addiction can create a sense of guilt and shame, leading to a feeling of separation from God and the church community.
• Communication Breakdown: The stress and secrecy associated with addiction can erode open and honest communication.

How Can a Christian Avoid Becoming Addicted?

Prevention is key in avoiding the grip of addiction. Here are some strategies:

• Cultivate Self-Control: Regularly practice self-discipline in various areas of life, including diet, exercise, and leisure activities.
• Stay Accountable: Maintain strong, accountable relationships with fellow believers who can offer support and guidance.
• Seek Professional Help Early: If you notice signs of addictive behavior, seek help from a medical professional or counselor immediately.
• Engage in Spiritual Practices: Regular prayer, Bible study, and worship can strengthen your resolve and provide spiritual fortitude.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the risks and signs of addiction and share this knowledge within your community to foster a supportive environment.

Finding Hope and Healing

Recovery is an ongoing journey, but the strength and support of faith can be a powerful resource. Here's how:

• Confession and Repentance: Openly admit your struggle to God and seek forgiveness. This lays the foundation for true change.
• Embrace Community: Find support in your church or Christian-focused addiction support groups. They offer understanding and guidance without judgment.
• Seek Both Spiritual and Practical Help: Combine prayer and spiritual practices with professional treatment, therapy, and support groups. This holistic approach addresses both physical and spiritual needs.
• Lean on God's Grace: Recovery has challenges, but God's grace sustains you on this journey. Each step forward is a testament to His love and strength working through you.

Key Takeaways

• Addiction is serious: It may require both medical and spiritual intervention.
• God's love and forgiveness: These extend to those fighting addiction.
• Salvation is attainable: If you sincerely seek recovery and redemption.
• Your church and faith community: They can offer invaluable support when combined with professional help.

Remember: You Are Not Alone, and Recovery is Possible

If you're a Christian struggling with addiction, there is hope. Cling to your faith, seek help, and trust in God's guiding hand. He wants you to know His strength, love, and the redemption He offers.

For further resources and support, reach out to your local church, Christian counseling services, or addiction support groups. Your journey to healing and recovery can begin today.