As soldiers of The Salvation Army, one of the promises that we signed up for is to stay away from alcohol and other intoxicating substances. Other substances such as tobacco, cannabis, opioids and stimulants are problematic. The ones from your drug dealer as well as the ones from pharmacies, supermarkets and your garden. Without being controversial, the current psychiatric books speaks about caffeine as one of the substances – incorporating those of us who love our coffee, energy drinks and certain types of tea.
Substances are a fake substitute for the fruits of The Spirit that we are promised in the New Testament. Any substance or activity that seeks to give us joy, peace, contentment in place of The Holy Spirit is problematic. It may SEEM to give us peace or joy or comfort for a short period of time; but that is neither sustainable, genuine nor satisfaction. Instead; one finds addiction, withdrawal, tolerance and disappointment. Some substances are more harmful than others, but may we never accept any substance as healthy or innocuous. If you’re not certain whether a certain substance you are using is problematic or not; try stopping it for 3 months.
In your discussions, fellowships or discipleship groups; discuss the substances that are tempting in your community. What other “things” could have replaced the word substance in this article for you? Food, relationship, exercise, sex…
The Salvation Army is active in many communities in assisting people overcome drug addiction. If we aren’t addicted to any substances, may we thank God and pray for the power to continue to resist all substances. For those whose substance use is secret; repent and pray for the power to overcome your substance use. For those in recovery; pray for the perseverance to daily resist the temptation to use substances again. For more information and resources, visit the Alcoholics Anonymous website at www.aasouthafrica.org.
Do you have a personal story or opinion to share? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments below!