Pubdate: Sun, 17 Jul 2016
Source: Calgary Sun, The (CN AB)
Page: 55
Column: My Answer
Copyright: 2016 The Calgary Sun
Contact: http://www.calgarysun.com/letter-to-editor
Website: http://www.calgarysun.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/67
Author: Billy Graham

TURN TO GOD FOR ASSISTANCE IN BREAKING BONDS OF DRUG USE

QUESTION: I admit I probably smoke pot a bit more than I should (it's 
legal in our state), but now my wife is getting after me because she 
says I'm addicted to it and turning into the equivalent of an 
alcoholic. Can harmless drugs like pot really do that to you? - Z.K.

ANSWER: No drug is harmless, and experts I have consulted agree that 
almost any drug can become addictive - including marijuana. When that 
happens, a person becomes more and more dependent on it, and may find 
it almost impossible to break away from it on their own. Gradually it 
ruins their life and destroys their relationships.

Don't be upset at your wife; be grateful instead that she cares about 
you and doesn't want to see you descend into a pit of destruction and 
despair. But God cares about you even more than she does, and He 
wants to help you break free of this drug. You admit elsewhere in 
your letter that you've never had anything to do with God. But God 
has not abandoned you, and the most important step you can take is to 
turn to Him and ask Jesus Christ to come into your life.

How will Christ help you? First, He'll help you face your situation 
honestly - not only what you're doing, but why you're trying to 
escape from your problems through drugs. Then He'll give you a new 
desire and a new strength to do what's right, as you realize how much 
He loves you.

Christ also can help you through others. Seek out a church where 
you'll learn to follow Christ, and can find people (even former 
addicts) who will help you and encourage you. Jesus' promise is for 
you: "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36).
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom