What is a Christians attitude towards addicts suppose to be?

[moonglow]

From scriptures point of view? I am struggling with being very judgmental towards addicts...alcoholic's, drug users, smokers, etc..and I don't like it being this way or the thoughts I have (I also realize many on here struggle with certain things and I know this post may be hurtful for you and I am SO sorry!) that is why I am posting. I am addicted to smoking myself so this makes NO sense! (I do not smoke in the house nor in public). I am ashamed of this addiction too. I think the reason the Lord has not helped me on this is because I have this prideful attitude ...which I really don't understand where its coming from. So I am humbling myself and confessing this on here...hoping to that might help.

I know how hard the struggle is with addiction yet when I see a smoker in public I tend to have very harsh judgmental thoughts..:( so I thought if I could study some scriptures on this maybe it would help. I am no better then they are...so like I said, I don't know where this pride on this is coming from inside of me...:( I certainly have nothing to be prideful about. :blush:

Thanks.

[Ta-An]

Moonglow, your list is not complete, what about people addicted to food? Over eaters.... are they more acceptable to you than people with other kinds of addictions?? :hmm:

[moonglow]

Moonglow, your list is not complete, what about people addicted to food? Over eaters.... are they more acceptable to you than people with other kinds of addictions?? :hmm:

Oh I realize people can be addicted to literally anything. Once I saw a show where a lady was addicted to tap dancing! :eek: So those things can be included sure. I watched a series on TV on people getting help that were obese...I mean so extremely heavy it was affecting their health and my how they suffered! I think because of this show I developed a compassion for them...an understanding of what they were going through so I don't feel judgmental towards overweight people anymore at all. They talked too how when they are out in public people won't look at them, its as if they are invisible..which made them feel more isolated, more lonely and again turned to food to comfort themselves. :( Its mostly drinkers and smokers I have problems with...I think on the drinking its because my ex was an abusive drunk...and a very heavy smoker...so I don't know if that has something to do with my feelings or not..(he was also a drug user too). Whatever it is, its gotten worse over the years, me looking down on those smokers...:cool:

God bless

[My heart's Desire]

(gasp) You a smoker! I never would have thunk it! Am I judging? No, because I smoke too.

The fact that I smoke is the condemnation I had for it is what brought me to my strong conviction of belief in the Lord Jesus and OSAS. If Nosas is true then every Christian who has any of these things above in their lives are doomed to be lost even if they think they are saved. There I said it. If an addict doesn't know Jesus as their Savior, believing He is Who He said He is and not trusting His death on the Cross as the remedy for their Sin then yes, they are lost. If they are saved, then they have a besetting sin. (If smoking is a sin...it's not what goes into a man but what comes out that defiles for that comes from the heart.)
Speaking of pride...we tend to focus on the worst that we can see. My pride was thinking "I cannot overcome smoking" I must be lost". The Lord has not taken my habit from me, I must be deceived thinking I'm saved when I'm not. I cannot give them up, I must be lost. That's alot of I's. Well, if "I" could save myself, where is Jesus in the picture? Pride is a real "I". In fact, Pride should start with the letter "I". Now that I got over the "I haven't quit, I must be lost pride thing I can concentrate on the things in my life that is of more concern. For example...that horrible thought that creeps on you, that word spoken in anger to a co-worker, that attitude that I deserve more than you because I know more, I've been on the job longer, the bosses like me better etc, etc, etc. Why didn't I give the ride home to someone just because it took me out of the way, why do I think I have to be in front of the car that just passed me.....Pride, pride pride the big "I". Smoking goes into the body, Pride comes out of the heart and in ways we don't always think about. I don't know of anybody who doesn't feel good if someone notices when they've done good. The world would say that is good self-esteem, the Bible calls it pride. (I'd like to hear a good sermon one of these days on the biblical good way of having self-esteem and yet not letting it become pride)
If someone thinks they've overcome all sin, let them think about how sneaky pride can be! Smoking convicts but Pride convicts me more.
I am so thankful that the Lord Jesus died for all of my sin because if He had not I would have been lost based on my behaviour.
The Word says Moses was most humble and I don't think he even tried, he just was. I wish I could be such.

[moonglow]

(gasp) You a smoker! I never would have thunk it! Am I judging? No, because I smoke too.

The fact that I smoke is the condemnation I had for it is what brought me to my strong conviction of belief in the Lord Jesus and OSAS. If Nosas is true then every Christian who has any of these things above in their lives are doomed to be lost even if they think they are saved. There I said it. If an addict doesn't know Jesus as their Savior, believing He is Who He said He is and not trusting His death on the Cross as the remedy for their Sin then yes, they are lost. If they are saved, then they have a besetting sin. (If smoking is a sin...it's not what goes into a man but what comes out that defiles for that comes from the heart.)
Speaking of pride...we tend to focus on the worst that we can see. My pride was thinking "I cannot overcome smoking" I must be lost". The Lord has not taken my habit from me, I must be deceived thinking I'm saved when I'm not. I cannot give them up, I must be lost. That's alot of I's. Well, if "I" could save myself, where is Jesus in the picture? Pride is a real "I". In fact, Pride should start with the letter "I". Now that I got over the "I haven't quit, I must be lost pride thing I can concentrate on the things in my life that is of more concern. For example...that horrible thought that creeps on you, that word spoken in anger to a co-worker, that attitude that I deserve more than you because I know more, I've been on the job longer, the bosses like me better etc, etc, etc. Why didn't I give the ride home to someone just because it took me out of the way, why do I think I have to be in front of the car that just passed me.....Pride, pride pride the big "I". Smoking goes into the body, Pride comes out of the heart and in ways we don't always think about. I don't know of anybody who doesn't feel good if someone notices when they've done good. The world would say that is good self-esteem, the Bible calls it pride. (I'd like to hear a good sermon one of these days on the biblical good way of having self-esteem and yet not letting it become pride)
If someone thinks they've overcome all sin, let them think about how sneaky pride can be! Smoking convicts but Pride convicts me more.
I am so thankful that the Lord Jesus died for all of my sin because if He had not I would have been lost based on my behaviour.
The Word says Moses was most humble and I don't think he even tried, he just was. I wish I could be such.

You brought up alot of good issues...thanks. Good posts. :)

Actually I am No-OSAS but I never thought I wasn't saved simply because I smoke...people can't decide if its a sin or not...for myself I want to quit..but this isn't the topic of my post...the topic is PRIDE.

My pride, which I agree is the greater sin here and one that has brought down many great Christians...humbled King David and put him to shame...I could list many others in the bible that stumbled greatly due to pride. While smoking could technically take my life...my pride could take my soul...damage my relationship with our Father so its needs to be dealt with..so that is what I want to keep the focus on with this thread...what I can do to overcome my pride when I see others smoking? What scriptures are there on this?

Thanks.

God bless

[My heart's Desire]

You brought up alot of good issues...thanks. Good posts. :)

Actually I am No-OSAS but I never thought I wasn't saved simply because I smoke...people can't decide if its a sin or not...for myself I want to quit..but this isn't the topic of my post...the topic is PRIDE.

My pride, which I agree is the greater sin here and one that has brought down many great Christians...humbled King David and put him to shame...I could list many others in the bible that stumbled greatly due to pride. While smoking could technically take my life...my pride could take my soul...damage my relationship with our Father so its needs to be dealt with..so that is what I want to keep the focus on with this thread...what I can do to overcome my pride when I see others smoking? What scriptures are there on this?

Thanks.

God bless
Ok, well here is the thing..if smoking is sin and you have to "repent" turn away from sin to be saved and you have not, are you saved or lost? If Pride is sin, one has a problem with pride and then has not "REPENTED" turned from that sin, is that one lost? I've found that pride can be reoccuring just like smoking cig after cig is.
These questions settled my OSAS question.

[rom826]

You brought up alot of good issues...thanks. Good posts. :)

Actually I am No-OSAS but I never thought I wasn't saved simply because I smoke...people can't decide if its a sin or not...for myself I want to quit..but this isn't the topic of my post...the topic is PRIDE.

My pride, which I agree is the greater sin here and one that has brought down many great Christians...humbled King David and put him to shame...I could list many others in the bible that stumbled greatly due to pride. While smoking could technically take my life...my pride could take my soul...damage my relationship with our Father so its needs to be dealt with..so that is what I want to keep the focus on with this thread...what I can do to overcome my pride when I see others smoking? What scriptures are there on this?

Thanks.

God bless

If God saved you despite your smoking (and I believe He did), don't you think He can save others in the same situation when they see who their Lord and Savior is and what He did for them? Maybe when you see others smoking, you can pray for them that they come to recognize what Jesus Christ did for them and have saving faith in Him. Just a thought.

[Lynne]

My pride, which I agree is the greater sin here and one that has brought down many great Christians...humbled King David and put him to shame...I could list many others in the bible that stumbled greatly due to pride. While smoking could technically take my life...my pride could take my soul...damage my relationship with our Father so its needs to be dealt with..so that is what I want to keep the focus on with this thread...what I can do to overcome my pride when I see others smoking? What scriptures are there on this?

Thanks.

God bless

I hope these help you:

Matthew 7:1-2
1Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.


John 8:15-16
15Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man. 16And yet if I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me.

Romans 14:1-13
1Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
2For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
3Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
4Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.
5One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
6He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
7For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
8For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.
9For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.
10But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.
11For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
12So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. 13Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

[JWayne]

We are to love them unconditionally, as so God loves us.

[moonglow]

Ok, well here is the thing..if smoking is sin and you have to "repent" turn away from sin to be saved and you have not, are you saved or lost? If Pride is sin, one has a problem with pride and then has not "REPENTED" turned from that sin, is that one lost? I've found that pride can be reoccuring just like smoking cig after cig is.
These questions settled my OSAS question.

Actually the bible says Christ died for us while we are still sinners:

Romans 5:7-9

7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. 9 And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation.

Yes we are to repent and turn away from our sins...as we all know salvation is an ongoing process...

Philippians 2
12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

None of us are sinless or perfect ..its an ongoing process. For instance some things I was doing long after I was saved I didn't even realize were sinnful..(it does take time to learn the bible) but the Holy Spirit convicted me and I realized I was sinning. Because this involved unforgiveness on my part and not something I could do on my own...I could say I forgave, but to honestly mean it deep down, I needed God's help with that. So together we worked on this..but it took time...now does that mean I was in some unsaved state during this time? of course not. That is not what no-osas means.

I don't see anything in the bible that says if we sin we lose our salvation...but I do believe a person can willfully reject God and turn away from Him. We see it happen even here on the board...some are just backsliden, some never saved at all but there are a few that were truly born again that reject God and its lifelong. Maybe they reject Him because they want to sin, maybe they reject Him because they lost a loved one and hold it against Him...the reasons are countless. But us committing a sin doesn't mean we 'lost' our salvation like someone loses their car key.

My pride though puts me in danger. Pride is what caused the fall of the devil, the fall of Adam and Eve and so many others. I would rather focus on that then OSAS please. Thanks.

God bless

[moonglow]

If God saved you despite your smoking (and I believe He did), don't you think He can save others in the same situation when they see who their Lord and Savior is and what He did for them? Maybe when you see others smoking, you can pray for them that they come to recognize what Jesus Christ did for them and have saving faith in Him. Just a thought.

Its not a question of whether they are saved or not though...that isn't the issue. I know I am so I image many of them are too.

JWayne We are to love them unconditionally, as so God loves us.

Of course..thanks. Its not very loving of me when I have these prideful thoughts that is for sure! :(

Lynne...thank you for those scriptures..especially the judge not, lest ye be judged...I think that is why God is convicting me of this pride issue...

God bless

[My heart's Desire]

From scriptures point of view? I am struggling with being very judgmental towards addicts...alcoholic's, drug users, smokers, etc..and I don't like it being this way or the thoughts I have (I also realize many on here struggle with certain things and I know this post may be hurtful for you and I am SO sorry!) that is why I am posting. I am addicted to smoking myself so this makes NO sense! (I do not smoke in the house nor in public). I am ashamed of this addiction too. I think the reason the Lord has not helped me on this is because I have this prideful attitude ...which I really don't understand where its coming from. So I am humbling myself and confessing this on here...hoping to that might help.

I know how hard the struggle is with addiction yet when I see a smoker in public I tend to have very harsh judgmental thoughts..:( so I thought if I could study some scriptures on this maybe it would help. I am no better then they are...so like I said, I don't know where this pride on this is coming from inside of me...:( I certainly have nothing to be prideful about. :blush:

Thanks.
Rereading I'm confused.Why do you think you are having a problem with pride? Because you don't do something in public that you judge others for doing in public?
Why are you so proud that you smoke away from public and why are you judging those who don't? Are you saying that you have pride in the fact that as a Christian who smokes you can hide it by not doing it in public as others do?
Condemnation and Pride are two different things. Which bothers you most? Pride for being able to hid your sin or habit(in this case) or judging those who don't?

[Partaker of Christ]

Although I have not walked upright with the Lord for 47 years, I have known and been know by Him, for 47 years.

I once had a sister in Christ (whom I loved and who loved me dearly) come up to me, and she asked "How can you say you love the Lord, and still smoke?"

I was shocked and hurt for some time after.

The answer is;
I love Him, because He first loved me, and I love Him much, because my sins which are many, are forgiven.

I have been prayed over a hundred times (exaggerated). I have been to a week long retreat Christian deliverance ministry team, to have demons cast out. I have wept and wept before the Lord. I have doubted my salvation. It seemed that most every pray time I had was with my agenda, and every searching of the word I did, was about being set free from my smoking.

In 1992 - 2004, I started work with the local authorities, working in a secure unit with young offenders, and those with 'challenging' behaviour issues. The large majority of them had substance abuse and addiction problems.
I was never allowed to talk about my faith with them, but I could show Christ in me.
I see many of these young people today, and there lives are turned around. Many are now settled with jobs and small families of their own. Some still often come up to me and chat, because they know I am approachable, and none judgmental.

[moonglow]

Rereading I'm confused.Why do you think you are having a problem with pride? Because you don't do something in public that you judge others for doing in public?
Why are you so proud that you smoke away from public and why are you judging those who don't? Are you saying that you have pride in the fact that as a Christian who smokes you can hide it by not doing it in public as others do?
Condemnation and Pride are two different things. Which bothers you most? Pride for being able to hid your sin or habit(in this case) or judging those who don't?

No its not about that because at times I do smoke in public..if I am visiting someone's else house, I go outside and smoke and depending on who's house it is, sometimes there is alot of traffic going by where everyone can see me smoking. Most public places here do not allow smoking so even if I wanted too, I couldn't...but usually I am with my son and don't want him to have to breath in my smoke anyway. So I don't think its that. I don't smoke in the house to protect my son from second hand smoke. I am ASHAMED of my smoking. I am ashamed of the chains it has on me and frankly I don't want to die from it.

I really don't know why I look down on others that smoke...its not all of them either, just some..if I knew exactly why I would tell you but I don't know. I just know with 'some', sometimes I have very judgmental thoughts...when I do I feel just horrible about it because I am no better then they are. All I can think of it maybe it goes back to my ex? possibly..I don't know. I just know its wrong for me to look down on anyone...for any reason..that is pride. If I am like this now, what would I be like if (when) I quit? I would be horrible..I would be like many ex-smokers who really snub their noses at smokers! And I don't want to be like that...its not the way we are suppose to be as Christians either.

Partaker of Christ I have no doubt about my salvation at all whether I smoke or not...that was a lovely post..thank you. My concern isn't the smoking in the salvation sense at all but with my pride. I see that as much more serious right now with me. Thank you for your post. :)

God bless

[My heart's Desire]

I am ASHAMED of my smoking. I am ashamed of the chains it has on me and frankly I don't want to die from it.

I really don't know why I look down on others that smoke...its not all of them either, just some. :)

God blessYes, well all of us who still indulge in this feel this way about it and well we should probably. About the pride in this situation then, I don't know what to tell you. And yes, lots of people who have quit DO indeed look down on those who haven't. They may not mean to but they do with their remarks as if they had never struggled with it or smoked. That in itself makes one wonder, well what's wrong with me? They can and I can't. Even worse if it is a Christian bro or sis who used to smoke, who says or intimidates that if you are still smoking you cannot or must not be saved.
I only replied because the whole issue about smoking is what increased my faith in the forgiveness and grace of God. As long as I looked at my habit instead of what He says in His Word, I doubted God. Oddly enough, when my faith in God's salvation became strong with the struggle, I wasn't delivered from the habit but I was delivered from Panic Disorder and anxiety. And yes, I always said I wasn't worried about my salvation because of my habit but in truth I was. When I decided to believe God instead, I no longer doubted Him or if He had saved me.

[moonglow]

Yes, well all of us who still indulge in this feel this way about it and well we should probably. About the pride in this situation then, I don't know what to tell you. And yes, lots of people who have quit DO indeed look down on those who haven't. They may not mean to but they do with their remarks as if they had never struggled with it or smoked. That in itself makes one wonder, well what's wrong with me? They can and I can't. Even worse if it is a Christian bro or sis who used to smoke, who says or intimidates that if you are still smoking you cannot or must not be saved.
I only replied because the whole issue about smoking is what increased my faith in the forgiveness and grace of God. As long as I looked at my habit instead of what He says in His Word, I doubted God. Oddly enough, when my faith in God's salvation became strong with the struggle, I wasn't delivered from the habit but I was delivered from Panic Disorder and anxiety. And yes, I always said I wasn't worried about my salvation because of my habit but in truth I was. When I decided to believe God instead, I no longer doubted Him or if He had saved me.

That is pretty much how I feel about everything you said, nearly word for word....except for one thing. God has healed me from many sins, or should I say delivered me from them and I have seen Him first hand work miracles in my son's life...and I have seen many of my prayers, even very small ones answered very quickly...so then that has lead me to wonder about this, why He hasn't delivered me from this addiction? I have questioned myself, am I weak in my faith? Have I not tried hard enough? Do I have no will power...well no I have no will power actually. And the bible says we can do nothing without Him either. Smoking is a love hate relationship...sometimes I think I would gladly never quit IF it didn't affect my health and IF it was free, If it didn't stink...:rolleyes: Very unrealistic I know. That is my flesh thinking and the flesh never makes much sense. :rolleyes: So sometimes I really don't mind smoking and don't feel one bit bad about it..:cool: But that is unrealistic too because eventually it will catch up with me..:( I also know beating myself up about it...putting myself on a guilt trip does nothing but make me want to smoke more..ugh! I image you know what I mean..

Anyway you want to hear something really weird? My back (my upper back) as been hurting really bad for days now and my neck too...I have back and neck problems so this is not unusual but sometime after I posted this that terrible pinching in my neck stopped and the painful tension in my upper back let up. Alot of times I feel like I am carrying a rock on my back or a beam of wood across the top of it. Its crushing, it wears me out and its very painful. That all let up after I posted. :hmm: Not saying my back is pain free, its not, but its not nearly as bad as it was.

Maybe just confessing my pride issue released some tension I was holding in. You know that saying, confession is good for the soul...:lol: I don't know if that is in the bible or not...but I do feel better. :)

So thanks for listening to me My heart's Desire, even if we don't agree on some issues...that is ok. :hug:

God bless

[JWayne]

JWayne We are to love them unconditionally, as so God loves us.

Of course..thanks. Its not very loving of me when I have these prideful thoughts that is for sure!

Unfortunately we are all that way, but some times we must continiouslly tell ourselves the simple answers repeatedly.

I am an addict. I am addicted to prescription pain medications, more specifically Morphine, Lortab and Soma. I suffer from severe chronic low back pain, now for the past 14 years. Back in March I went through detox, and now I am left with taking Tramadol which is 100x less.

I will be having surgery (double fusion) some time in the next few weeks, and because of my addiction I will not be able to take narcotics once I leave the hospital.

An addict is just another human being with a bigger problem than the other person. We need love and other's help now more than ever.

[moonglow]

Unfortunately we are all that way, but some times we must continiouslly tell ourselves the simple answers repeatedly.

I am an addict. I am addicted to prescription pain medications, more specifically Morphine, Lortab and Soma. I suffer from severe chronic low back pain, now for the past 14 years. Back in March I went through detox, and now I am left with taking Tramadol which is 100x less.

I will be having surgery (double fusion) some time in the next few weeks, and because of my addiction I will not be able to take narcotics once I leave the hospital.

An addict is just another human being with a bigger problem than the other person. We need love and other's help now more than ever.

Very true on that last sentence for sure. Some of my bad attitude as I said before, was because of what my son and I endured partly because of my ex's addiction. While I have forgiven him, apparently some of my feelings towards addicts has carried over from that. I know before I meant him I had pity for addicts of any kind...I had compassion for them, but not a whole lot of that is left after going through what I did.

I am sorry for your back pain and having to deal with getting addicted to pain medication on top of it...its so easy to do. None of those RX pain medications helped me with my pain at all...just made me so dopey I couldn't function but still hurt and frankly I want a life, not be knocked out or unable to do anything because I am so doped up. I take ALOT of Aleve...before that I took alot of Ibuphen until I built up a resistance to it and it no longer worked. Eventually I will probably have to have surgery too because even over the counter medications can do organ damage. :(

I will be praying for you that this surgery works and you won't need any pain medication. :pray:

God bless

[mountainman]

well -- we don't like the sin but we still love the person sinning

yes today my walk may be much better than in the past
but still so far from perfect
something to shoot for though

about the time I start to get heavy handed with my judging of others
I had better get humble fast
may be time for yet -- another fall

Mountainman

[fuzzi]

My old church had an addictions ministry for several years (look it up on the web, "Reformers Unanimous"). We would get all sorts of people coming in, who professed salvation, but who were struggling with drugs, alcohol, smoking or other addictions. Working with these brothers and sisters in Christ really made me think about how we struggle with our sinful flesh.

When I see others struggling with sin, I remind myself that "there but for the grace of God go I". Just because I don't have an addiction to cigarettes or alcohol doesn't make me any better than those that do.

[livingwaters]

:pray:JWayne, I'm praying for you!!! The Lord will supply all of your needs, but you have to let HIM...I was hooked on pain pills and other things before I got saved. I had tried to quit, but I got so sick, I always went back. Well, since they were not prescribed, I had to buy them, which was extremely expensive, as well as the other addictions I had. So, when I finally decided to call on the name of Jesus, HE was right there. I said, Lord I can't do this anymore. I need YOU to take over.....bam, within a month, Jesus delivered me from not one, not two, but four addictions. I say this to testify and glorify the Lord, cause I KNOW I could not have done it on my own. God is true to HIS Word....don't ever doubt it!!! There is nothing too big for God!!! Thank YOU, LORD!!!!

God Bless:hug:

[My heart's Desire]

That is pretty much how I feel about everything you said, nearly word for word....except for one thing. God has healed me from many sins, or should I say delivered me from them and I have seen Him first hand work miracles in my son's life...and I have seen many of my prayers, even very small ones answered very quickly...so then that has lead me to wonder about this, why He hasn't delivered me from this addiction? I have questioned myself, am I weak in my faith? Have I not tried hard enough? Do I have no will power...well no I have no will power actually. And the bible says we can do nothing without Him either. Smoking is a love hate relationship...sometimes I think I would gladly never quit IF it didn't affect my health and IF it was free, If it didn't stink...:rolleyes: Very unrealistic I know. That is my flesh thinking and the flesh never makes much sense. :rolleyes: So sometimes I really don't mind smoking and don't feel one bit bad about it..:cool: But that is unrealistic too because eventually it will catch up with me..:( I also know beating myself up about it...putting myself on a guilt trip does nothing but make me want to smoke more..ugh! I image you know what I mean..

Anyway you want to hear something really weird? My back (my upper back) as been hurting really bad for days now and my neck too...I have back and neck problems so this is not unusual but sometime after I posted this that terrible pinching in my neck stopped and the painful tension in my upper back let up. Alot of times I feel like I am carrying a rock on my back or a beam of wood across the top of it. Its crushing, it wears me out and its very painful. That all let up after I posted. :hmm: Not saying my back is pain free, its not, but its not nearly as bad as it was.

Maybe just confessing my pride issue released some tension I was holding in. You know that saying, confession is good for the soul...:lol: I don't know if that is in the bible or not...but I do feel better. :)

So thanks for listening to me My heart's Desire, even if we don't agree on some issues...that is ok. :hug:

God bless
I don't mind at all because I know what I'm talking about. It has been borne out in my life over the years. I'm not speaking out senseless words. I've been there in experience and now I have rest over the whole issue because of the saving grace of my Savior. You've heard of the dark night of the soul I'm sure well it was like the dark night of my soul for years.

[Welder4Christ]

Hi, moonglow;

I was a smoker for about 15 yrs. before God delivered me about 2 yrs. ago. It was a miraculous deliverance, too, because I actually had no cravings, really, when I quit. I also had a crystal meth and pot habit that lasted on-and-off for about 18 yrs. God delivered me from that, too, so I know what it's like to be in bondage to these addictions.

Have you ever thought that, perhaps, the reason you have not been delivered from your smoking habit is because of your pride? If you look down on them now, even while you are still addicted to nicotine, imagine how you might feel once God does deliver you. That might be one of the reasons why God has not completely delivered you yet. Perhaps He wants you to learn empathy first, so that when you are finally delivered, you won't look down on them even more.

I can tell by your postings that you do despise your habit, and that you do want to quit. Not too long ago, I was reading a book where the guy was talking about how God had delivered him from cigarrettes. He said that a short while after he became saved, God miraculously delivered him from smoking. Needless to say, he was overjoyed, but a while after God delivered him, he started smoking again, just casually, because he figured that if God delivered him once, He'd deliver him a second time, as well. That didn't happen. Instead, he became addicted again, but this time, he had to really struggle to quit. God didn't deliver him supernaturally the second time around, as he did the first.

He explained that the reason was because God was trying to bring him to a place where he really despised his habit, so he wouldn't go back to it. By having to work so hard to quit this time, he came to really despise his addiction, and cigarrettes in general, so that when he finally was delivered, he had absolutely no desire to return to the habit.

Perhaps God is trying to teach you something by not delivering you immediately. Perhaps he is trying to teach you empathy. Remember that God does everything in His own timing, and His own timing is perfect. Ask God to show you why it is that you can't quit. Ask Him to give you empathy, and compassion, for those whose habits keep them in bondage. Once you have reached a level of empathy for them, I can imagine that it will be easier for you to stop smoking.

[ZAB]

From scriptures point of view? I am struggling with being very judgmental towards addicts...alcoholic's, drug users, smokers, etc..and I don't like it being this way or the thoughts I have (I also realize many on here struggle with certain things and I know this post may be hurtful for you and I am SO sorry!) that is why I am posting. I am addicted to smoking myself so this makes NO sense! (I do not smoke in the house nor in public). I am ashamed of this addiction too. I think the reason the Lord has not helped me on this is because I have this prideful attitude ...which I really don't understand where its coming from. So I am humbling myself and confessing this on here...hoping to that might help.

I know how hard the struggle is with addiction yet when I see a smoker in public I tend to have very harsh judgmental thoughts..:( so I thought if I could study some scriptures on this maybe it would help. I am no better then they are...so like I said, I don't know where this pride on this is coming from inside of me...:( I certainly have nothing to be prideful about. :blush:

Thanks.

Well, below is what Jesus did when a woman's "habits" were exposed. Shouldn't we possess the same heart? By mercy and truth iniquity is purged, not by harsh criticism (Prov 16:6).

John 8:3-11 "And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more."

I believe this is how we "love one another with a pure heart fervently" (1 Pet 1:22). We need to possess the heart of God: in their good and in their bad.

God bless you!

[TheAnswer99]

We are all addicted to sin.

Is the heroin addict any worse than the porn addict?

Is the alcoholic any worse than the liar?

We are all dirty and sinful in the eyes of God. Let us not judge but rather help those in need because even the most perfect of us is imperfect

[embankmentlb]

We are all addicted to sin.

Is the heroin addict any worse than the porn addict?

Is the alcoholic any worse than the liar?

We are all dirty and sinful in the eyes of God. Let us not judge but rather help those in need because even the most perfect of us is imperfect

You said it perfectly!
Not one of us has escaped sin. We are all guilty.

[moonglow]

Hi, moonglow;

I was a smoker for about 15 yrs. before God delivered me about 2 yrs. ago. It was a miraculous deliverance, too, because I actually had no cravings, really, when I quit. I also had a crystal meth and pot habit that lasted on-and-off for about 18 yrs. God delivered me from that, too, so I know what it's like to be in bondage to these addictions.

Have you ever thought that, perhaps, the reason you have not been delivered from your smoking habit is because of your pride? If you look down on them now, even while you are still addicted to nicotine, imagine how you might feel once God does deliver you. That might be one of the reasons why God has not completely delivered you yet. Perhaps He wants you to learn empathy first, so that when you are finally delivered, you won't look down on them even more.

I can tell by your postings that you do despise your habit, and that you do want to quit. Not too long ago, I was reading a book where the guy was talking about how God had delivered him from cigarrettes. He said that a short while after he became saved, God miraculously delivered him from smoking. Needless to say, he was overjoyed, but a while after God delivered him, he started smoking again, just casually, because he figured that if God delivered him once, He'd deliver him a second time, as well. That didn't happen. Instead, he became addicted again, but this time, he had to really struggle to quit. God didn't deliver him supernaturally the second time around, as he did the first.

He explained that the reason was because God was trying to bring him to a place where he really despised his habit, so he wouldn't go back to it. By having to work so hard to quit this time, he came to really despise his addiction, and cigarrettes in general, so that when he finally was delivered, he had absolutely no desire to return to the habit.

Perhaps God is trying to teach you something by not delivering you immediately. Perhaps he is trying to teach you empathy. Remember that God does everything in His own timing, and His own timing is perfect. Ask God to show you why it is that you can't quit. Ask Him to give you empathy, and compassion, for those whose habits keep them in bondage. Once you have reached a level of empathy for them, I can imagine that it will be easier for you to stop smoking.

Oh yes, I really think my pride is the reason I haven't been delivered..that is partly why I posted on this..to confess my sin of pride...to post something I about myself I would rather not have everyone know (smoking and pride!). And like I said, it does baffle me that I think the thoughts I do about some that smoke...yet when I see people on oxygen (though I realize not everyone needs oxygen because of smoking), I have deep empathy for them. My empathy for those that suffer in most cases is so deep it can overwhelm me at times. The grief I feel for them is crushing at times. This is why I first don't even understand why in this area I have such judgmental thoughts in the first place.

Normally I am very compassionate towards people so this has taken me by surprise and I don't understand it. Does anyone understand pride? There is certainly nothing great about me..I have numerous disabilities that most of the time make me feel less worthy then others. I have low self esteem. There are alot of things I cannot do that come so easy for others which leaves me feeling stupid alot of the times. So I don't even understand this...all I know is I need to work on it.

If God sees fit to deliver me from this I would really be stupid to test Him and start smoking again like that man in your example. While I am stupid in math and in social skills and other things, hopefully I won't ever be stupid and take His gifts for granted.

God bless

[moonglow]

We are all addicted to sin.

Is the heroin addict any worse than the porn addict?

Is the alcoholic any worse than the liar?

We are all dirty and sinful in the eyes of God. Let us not judge but rather help those in need because even the most perfect of us is imperfect

I disagree with most of your bibical views actually and this is no exception. Jesus set us FREE from sin. If we continue in sin, its usually because of something we are doing wrong..for me its my pride. We do not have to be in bondage to sin. That is the one of the biggest reason's Jesus came. To say we are addicted to sin, that we cannot escape it, it to undermine the work He did.

John 8
31 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?”

34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.


We are not dirty nor sinful in God's eyes, for Christ cleaned us and made us righteous before God.

2 Corinthians 5
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

[threebigrocks]

Just to throw a cog in here, least a bit - is it the pride you hold onto which keeps a person from self control? I can have self control over most everything in life. Smoking - that is hard, as in any chemical addiction. Pride is keeping you from self control.

I'll bet if self control is exercised on the strength of Christ, fully letting go in despite of the struggle, pride will loose out.

I say this because I know the battle. Desiring self control is hard to do. Pray on it - then fight what is not yet self controlled. Once we get there - empathy for those with addictions and pride in all of it will fall away. As fleshy people self control is not easy.

[HisLeast]

I can't help but be sympathetic to the addicted. There was a time I looked down my nose at them, but my own 10 year battle with porn made me realize I was doing so from the same boat.

[moonglow]

Just to throw a cog in here, least a bit - is it the pride you hold onto which keeps a person from self control? I can have self control over most everything in life. Smoking - that is hard, as in any chemical addiction. Pride is keeping you from self control.

I'll bet if self control is exercised on the strength of Christ, fully letting go in despite of the struggle, pride will loose out.

I say this because I know the battle. Desiring self control is hard to do. Pray on it - then fight what is not yet self controlled. Once we get there - empathy for those with addictions and pride in all of it will fall away. As fleshy people self control is not easy.

Good insight..thanks. :) I am not so much concerned with the physical addiction because now they have so many things to help with that...so I don't have to go through the bad withdrawals. Its the mind control of this habit...like any habit..it becomes ingrained and part of our lives (speaking to people in general that are addicted to anything..including watching TV..lol). So its a lifestyle change and that can be hard.

Many years ago I had a bad habit of biting my nails. I struggled with breaking that too...and have had other weird little annoying habits...each one has been hard to stop but eventually I did. Right now I am also struggling with the habit of pulling my cheek in and gentle holding it between two teeth in my mouth. Not cheek biting, just holding that little bit of cheek between two teeth. Its weird I know. :rolleyes: Normally it would be no big deal but this one tooth is very sensitive sense I had a cavity filled in it and it will hurt badly if I do this so I have to stop this habit. The problem is half the time I am not even aware I am doing this until that tooth starts hurting. :( Its hard to stop something you don't know you are doing...:lol: Anyway since becoming aware of it, I try to catch myself and stop it. I have this habit mostly broken but sometimes still catch myself doing it...ugh!!!! Human beings are weird. I wonder if animals develop habits? :hmm:

Anyway thanks for your post.

God bless

[My heart's Desire]

Many years ago I had a bad habit of biting my nails. I struggled with breaking that too...and have had other weird little annoying habits..Lol because of anxiety I never had any nails. I bit mine since I was little. Not anymore. I recently had my teeth pulled and dentures (not to break the habit) but it worked. It is taking time to get used to my long nails as I've never had them before. Nail biting got broke on the spot. Can't bite em when you have no teeth!

[My heart's Desire]

I know you are concerned about pride but I heard a way to quit smoking that sounds as if it may work. They say act as if every cig. you have will be your last one. Short term goals are easier to obtain than longer ones. I try this myself. It still takes committment though.

[moonglow]

Lol because of anxiety I never had any nails. I bit mine since I was little. Not anymore. I recently had my teeth pulled and dentures (not to break the habit) but it worked. It is taking time to get used to my long nails as I've never had them before. Nail biting got broke on the spot. Can't bite em when you have no teeth!

Yea I bet. :lol: My son used to grind his teeth when he was little...then when he lost his tooth front teeth he couldn't do it anymore so that broke his habit real fast too..lol. I have very long nails most of the time...the other day I had several break and I am struggling to type! I am used to typing with my nails apparently..didn't even know it. I feel like half my finger is missing when typing...:rolleyes:

My heart's Desire I know you are concerned about pride but I heard a way to quit smoking that sounds as if it may work. They say act as if every cig. you have will be your last one. Short term goals are easier to obtain than longer ones. I try this myself. It still takes committment though.

I guess I don't understand how that would work when I know perfectly well it won't be my last..:hmm: Thanks anyway.

God bless

[embankmentlb]

I disagree with most of your bibical views actually and this is no exception. Jesus set us FREE from sin. If we continue in sin, its usually because of something we are doing wrong..for me its my pride. We do not have to be in bondage to sin. That is the one of the biggest reason's Jesus came. To say we are addicted to sin, that we cannot escape it, it to undermine the work He did.

John 8
31 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?”

34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.


We are not dirty nor sinful in God's eyes, for Christ cleaned us and made us righteous before God.

2 Corinthians 5
20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

I have to ask. Moonglow, do you not sin?

[TheAnswer99]

I disagree with most of your bibical views actually and this is no exception.
I felt this was kind of unnecessary, but I appreciate your honesty.

Jesus set us FREE from sin. If we continue in sin, its usually because of something we are doing wrong..for me its my pride. We do not have to be in bondage to sin. That is the one of the biggest reason's Jesus came. To say we are addicted to sin, that we cannot escape it, it to undermine the work He did.

I'm not disputing this...I think you misunderstood my point. I'm simply suggesting that we all sin in some way and go against God. We should not be self-righteous or arrogant and simply not care for others who are suffering from a particular addiction to sin - especially when many of us have own our specific addictions to sin. We are dirty until we repent and recognize Jesus' sacrifice. Jesus' actions provided us with the sacrificial lamb, and through recognition of that great sacrifice and our own repentance, we can be washed clean of our sin.

[threebigrocks]

Good insight..thanks. :) I am not so much concerned with the physical addiction because now they have so many things to help with that...so I don't have to go through the bad withdrawals. Its the mind control of this habit...like any habit..it becomes ingrained and part of our lives (speaking to people in general that are addicted to anything..including watching TV..lol). So its a lifestyle change and that can be hard.

Many years ago I had a bad habit of biting my nails. I struggled with breaking that too...and have had other weird little annoying habits...each one has been hard to stop but eventually I did. Right now I am also struggling with the habit of pulling my cheek in and gentle holding it between two teeth in my mouth. Not cheek biting, just holding that little bit of cheek between two teeth. Its weird I know. :rolleyes: Normally it would be no big deal but this one tooth is very sensitive sense I had a cavity filled in it and it will hurt badly if I do this so I have to stop this habit. The problem is half the time I am not even aware I am doing this until that tooth starts hurting. :( Its hard to stop something you don't know you are doing...:lol: Anyway since becoming aware of it, I try to catch myself and stop it. I have this habit mostly broken but sometimes still catch myself doing it...ugh!!!! Human beings are weird. I wonder if animals develop habits? :hmm:

Anyway thanks for your post.

God bless

Yep, self control. ;) I'm willing to bet that your pride you speak of simply says that you are in the same boat as those who also have habits you despise. Self control is a common bond - and that you are not fond of.

And - this is a very good thread for the breaking the chains forum. Moving it there for continued discussion.

[moonglow]

I have to ask. Moonglow, do you not sin?

huh? This whole thread has been about my sin of pride. I believe though that Christ can set me free of that also if I confess it and humble myself.

threebigrocks
Yep, self control. I'm willing to bet that your pride you speak of simply says that you are in the same boat as those who also have habits you despise. Self control is a common bond - and that you are not fond of.

And - this is a very good thread for the breaking the chains forum. Moving it there for continued discussion.

You mean pride and struggling with self control is the problem that others have with addictions? I am not sure what you are saying here..sorry.

God bless

[Lefty]

(gasp) You a smoker! I never would have thunk it! Am I judging? No, because I smoke too.

Me too:( It's been a long battle I've been fighting but haven't won yet.

As far as my judging other smokers; It's only the look of proud defiance in an unbeliever who's smoking or drinking in public that I have a problem with. My bad conscience makes it hard for me to smoke in public, and I also don't want to encourage anyone else to do it, so when I see someone who flaunts it, I don't like it.

[threebigrocks]

You mean pride and struggling with self control is the problem that others have with addictions? I am not sure what you are saying here..sorry.

God bless

Yep. Did you know meth is stand alone in that it's chemical composition destroys the ability for one to have much, if any self control? We watched a documentary yesterday on it. Only 10% actually get clean for any length of time. If they make it to a year it's a huge accomplishment. The drug removes the persons ability to stop themselves.

They think they've got it all under control. Life is wonderful. In actuality - it's a total mess and meth is in charge of them. Total illusion, and they are blind to it while life falls apart around them. Pride through deception they brought on themselves, and no self control to pull out of it.

And that is true.

But I was wondering if you struggle because you don't see yourself like them, don't even really like them, when really - you share the the same struggle as so many do who have any sort of addicition. The addiction is different, but our thinking - not as far apart as we would like to think.

That though can also be the beginning of empathy and the end of pride. ;) :hug:

[fuzzi]

I have noted several references in this thread to 'self control'. While I am no advocate for a lack of self control, I would like to suggest that, perhaps, we should not so much be promoting self control as Spirit control.

If we ask and allow the Lord to help us in our weaknesses, if we submit to Him and permit the Holy Spirit to work within us and for us, there is so much more we can overcome, because He is doing the work.

"I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13)

[moonglow]

Yep. Did you know meth is stand alone in that it's chemical composition destroys the ability for one to have much, if any self control? We watched a documentary yesterday on it. Only 10% actually get clean for any length of time. If they make it to a year it's a huge accomplishment. The drug removes the persons ability to stop themselves.

They think they've got it all under control. Life is wonderful. In actuality - it's a total mess and meth is in charge of them. Total illusion, and they are blind to it while life falls apart around them. Pride through deception they brought on themselves, and no self control to pull out of it.

And that is true.

But I was wondering if you struggle because you don't see yourself like them, don't even really like them, when really - you share the the same struggle as so many do who have any sort of addicition. The addiction is different, but our thinking - not as far apart as we would like to think.

That though can also be the beginning of empathy and the end of pride. ;) :hug:

Oh I know perfectly well that those working on quitting go through the exact same struggles...

Hopefully we aren't brain damaged though! :eek:

Did they say on that program is the area of the brain damaged that affects self control meant lack of control in all areas of their life? I would think it would and not just lack of control in doing the drug again. I have to say one thing, I thank God all the time I never tried any of those drugs like that...I couldn't image how horrible that would be...:(

fuzzi I have noted several references in this thread to 'self control'. While I am no advocate for a lack of self control, I would like to suggest that, perhaps, we should not so much be promoting self control as Spirit control.

If we ask and allow the Lord to help us in our weaknesses, if we submit to Him and permit the Holy Spirit to work within us and for us, there is so much more we can overcome, because He is doing the work.

"I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13)

Very good. :) and yes I did say that..that I know I have no self control on this or rather will power is what I think I said, and knew I had to rely totally on God with this. Thanks for the scripture.

God bless

[threebigrocks]

We do need to exercise our own self control, some is easy for us to turn away from - and some isn't. We do need to rely on the Spirit for strength to do so. It's part of our maturing in the faith for all even if we aren't held by an addiction.

2 Peter 1
3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

This verse is a process for growing in the faith. We each have our own way of walking it out.

Most addicts don't realize they have a problem. Whatever the addiction is, they think for the most part that they don't have an issue, they are in control. It is pride, but also self control. Once a person realizes that they don't have it all under control their pride is hurt and the fight is on both physically and spiritually. It's a moment where there is the possibility of changing of what we are in bondage to. Satan who keeps us bound out of pride and lack of self control (or unable to see it - the condition they are in is their fault) or laying that down and turning from it. Doesn't matter what "it" is, it's got us.

Will the person lay down their pride and exercise self control to not overeat, drink, smoke, inject, inhale? They need to choose to not do those things, in essence choosing who they put themselves in slavery to. Ask any one who is trying to recover - it's a conscious effort, sometimes second by second, to not do what controls them. Those hard moments is when we do indeed, as you said, not rely on our own power to say no and turn away but for Christ to carry them through; to persevere.

[threebigrocks]

Did they say on that program is the area of the brain damaged that affects self control meant lack of control in all areas of their life? I would think it would and not just lack of control in doing the drug again. I have to say one thing, I thank God all the time I never tried any of those drugs like that...I couldn't image how horrible that would be...:(

Yep, it damages the self control center of the brain for all things - it's gone by the 3rd time they do it. And statistically they are hooked after the first time. 1 time and it's inevitable. It was an A&E produced documentary called Meth Mountain. Not sure if you can find it either on TV, internet or even rent it. I'd try the library if you wanted to rent it.

My son watched it, and he said that he never heard those things in their Health class, and the local police drug enforcement team came in several times to do presentations. He would love to see them add it because it was so real life and full of hard truths. My son is 16, and I'd think it would be fine for Nate to watch. I'd not hesitate to show it to my 13 year old either.

[moonglow]

We do need to exercise our own self control, some is easy for us to turn away from - and some isn't. We do need to rely on the Spirit for strength to do so. It's part of our maturing in the faith for all even if we aren't held by an addiction.

2 Peter 1
3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

This verse is a process for growing in the faith. We each have our own way of walking it out.

Most addicts don't realize they have a problem. Whatever the addiction is, they think for the most part that they don't have an issue, they are in control. It is pride, but also self control. Once a person realizes that they don't have it all under control their pride is hurt and the fight is on both physically and spiritually. It's a moment where there is the possibility of changing of what we are in bondage to. Satan who keeps us bound out of pride and lack of self control (or unable to see it - the condition they are in is their fault) or laying that down and turning from it. Doesn't matter what "it" is, it's got us.

Will the person lay down their pride and exercise self control to not overeat, drink, smoke, inject, inhale? They need to choose to not do those things, in essence choosing who they put themselves in slavery to. Ask any one who is trying to recover - it's a conscious effort, sometimes second by second, to not do what controls them. Those hard moments is when we do indeed, as you said, not rely on our own power to say no and turn away but for Christ to carry them through; to persevere.

Very good and very true. You think this works on issues of prideful thoughts too? The moment I have these thoughts I regret them deeply...and I don't even understand them either. All I know is I feel ashamed I even have them in the first place..:(

God bless

[threebigrocks]

Lots of prayer, lots of listening in prayer, and asking God to show you how to get on top of it. Purposely put your focus on scripture and prayer with your whole heart. If you make your moments about Him - there's less and less room for you. ;)

[moonglow]

Yes I am doing that for sure! It was He, after all that pointed out this pride issues...I had become like this:

Luke 18

Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector
9 Then Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: 10 “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! 12 I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’

13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ 14 I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Though right now I am becoming feeling like this: “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’

I was being a hypocrite.. and didn't even realize it...:cry:

[threebigrocks]

And now - you can change it. :) Don't stay in that one spot where you have seen correction. Look it in the eye, acknowledge it and move forward! It is in that moving forward where you will find strength and healing.

[moonglow]

And now - you can change it. :) Don't stay in that one spot where you have seen correction. Look it in the eye, acknowledge it and move forward! It is in that moving forward where you will find strength and healing.

Oh believe me, I am working on it...I still wish I understood how this all happened in the first place...I guess because of our battle with our sin nature I suppose...:B

Thanks for all your help...I think I am currently on the potters wheel right now..so if I appear lumpy at times, you will know why...:lol: :cool:

God bless

[cheech]

I haven't read through the other posts so forgive me if there are any repeats (it's late and I'm tired :D).

Per your original question...I think it boils down to looking past what you see on the outside and heading straight for the inside of a person. When I started asking God to help with this, he obliged. I learned to look past a persons addiction and seek what was happening on the inside of them. What you see on the outside isn't what's on the inside. For many there is so much hurt and pain and that is what you have to focus on. I know their addictions can be hurtful, annoying or however it may make you feel, but there is so much more to what you are seeing and that's what you have to seek out in order to have more compassion, understanding and be less prideful.

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

1 Peter 3:8
8Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

There were aspects of my daughter that irritated me because she was doing some of the same things that I did. Why did it irritate me so much if I did the same things? Because I knew it was wrong and I didn't like the fact that I did whatever it was and now she was doing it. I am a procrastinator but I wanted her to do things when I told her instead of procrastinating and not getting it done. Yet there were things that I procrastinated on. Seeing these addictions may irritate you in others simply because it convicts you even though you may not realize it.

[moonglow]

I haven't read through the other posts so forgive me if there are any repeats (it's late and I'm tired :D).

Per your original question...I think it boils down to looking past what you see on the outside and heading straight for the inside of a person. When I started asking God to help with this, he obliged. I learned to look past a persons addiction and seek what was happening on the inside of them. What you see on the outside isn't what's on the inside. For many there is so much hurt and pain and that is what you have to focus on. I know their addictions can be hurtful, annoying or however it may make you feel, but there is so much more to what you are seeing and that's what you have to seek out in order to have more compassion, understanding and be less prideful.

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

1 Peter 3:8
8Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

There were aspects of my daughter that irritated me because she was doing some of the same things that I did. Why did it irritate me so much if I did the same things? Because I knew it was wrong and I didn't like the fact that I did whatever it was and now she was doing it. I am a procrastinator but I wanted her to do things when I told her instead of procrastinating and not getting it done. Yet there were things that I procrastinated on. Seeing these addictions may irritate you in others simply because it convicts you even though you may not realize it.

Good point..I hadn't thought of it that way...thanks for the insight!

God bless