If you’re caught in the cycle of drug addiction or substance abuse, you might be wondering: Is doing drugs a sin? What does the Bible say about drugs, and where can someone turn for healing that honors both body and spirit?
While the Bible obviously doesn’t explicitly mention drugs like heroin, meth, or other illicit drugs, it offers clear guidance about how we’re meant to live— with a sober mind, walking in step with the Holy Spirit, and treating our bodies as temples where God’s Spirit dwells.
At the heart of it all is this question: Does your lifestyle honor God?
If you’re feeling trapped by addiction, please know: there’s hope. And there’s help. Through faith, community, and compassionate care, healing is possible. That’s where the LINKS program comes in.
Get Help Today
Help and healing are possible through our Christian rehab programs.
If you are ready to take the next step and learn more about how a Christian rehab center can aid in your recovery, feel free to reach out to us at any time.
What Does the Bible Say About Drugs?
The Bible teaches that anything leading us away from God’s will can be destructive to the soul, whether that’s sexual immorality, alcohol abuse, or drug use.
“When I kept silent about my sin, my bones wasted away Through my groaning all day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was drained away as with the heat of summer. Selah. I acknowledged my sin to You, And my iniquity I did not cover up; I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to Yahweh;’ And You forgave the iniquity of my sin.” – Psalm 32:3-5
Though it doesn’t name modern drugs directly, Scripture is clear about the importance of self-control, clear thinking, and keeping our bodies and minds holy.
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the roaring lion prowls around looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8
Drugs, much like alcohol when abused, dull our minds and open doors to being led astray—emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Does Drug Use Destroy God’s Temple?
Yes. Scripture reminds us that we are not our own—we’re God’s creation:
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? … If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him.” – 1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Drugs damage not just the body but the soul. When addiction takes over, it separates us from the clarity, joy, and peace that come from walking with Jesus Christ.
Is Drug Use Keeping You From the Kingdom of God?
Paul’s words are direct when listing the behaviors that are indicators of a lack of genuine salvation:
“Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers… nor drunkards nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
Does this mean you’re beyond forgiveness? Absolutely not. Through Christ Jesus, salvation is available to everyone who believes in Him. In these verses, the apostle Paul is reminding those in the Corinthian church who started falling back into the sins of their former lives that if they were to go all the way back to live as they used to, it would be a strong indication that they were never saved.
But remember the promise of 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
How Addiction Leads Us Away From God
Whether it’s alcohol consumption, drug use, or any form of substance abuse, addiction numbs the soul. It damages relationships. It distances you from fellowship with God. And it opens doors to selfish ambition, sexual immorality, and choices that break trust and harm yourself or others.
But here’s the hope: God created you for more.
“Q: What is the chief end of man? A: Man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him for ever. (1 Cor 10:31, Rom 11:36, Ps 73:25-28)” — from the Westminster Catechism
Finding Healing Through the LINKS Program
That’s why LINKS, the Christian track at Northbound Treatment in Orange County, CA, exists.
At LINKS, we believe that addiction recovery isn’t just physical—it’s spiritual. Healing isn’t just about stopping drug use; it’s about reconnecting with the Lord Jesus Christ, learning to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, and rediscovering your identity as one of God’s children.
At LINKS, you’ll find:
Clinical, evidence-based addiction treatment
Faith-centered therapy and pastoral counseling
Daily practices of prayer and Scripture
A Christ-centered community focused on helping you overcome addiction
Compassionate support that meets you where you are
Whether you’re struggling with illicit drugs, prescription misuse, or long-term substance abuse, LINKS offers a path back to wholeness.
A Prayer for Those Struggling with Addiction
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you pray. Here is an example of a prayer to get you started:
“Lord Jesus Christ, I feel trapped. Help me overcome the pull of addiction. I confess that I’ve tried to escape life through drugs, and I want to choose a new path. Fill me with the Holy Spirit. Let me see that my body is a temple of Your presence. Help me lay down every habit that keeps me from the kingdom of God, and guide me back to You. Amen.”
You Are Not Too Far Gone
If you’re wondering whether doing drugs is a sin, consider this: anything that harms your body, your mind, or your spirit pulls you away from the life God intended.
But it’s never too late to seek help. Healing is possible. Hope is real. And through Jesus Christ, a new life awaits.
Call LINKS today at (866) 434‑1330 or reach out online. Let us help you step away from addiction and toward the peace, freedom, and purpose God has for you.
Get Help Today
Help and healing are possible through our Christian rehab programs.
If you are ready to take the next step and learn more about how a Christian rehab center can aid in your recovery, feel free to reach out to us at any time.
FAQs About Drugs and the Bible
What do Bible verses say about drug use?
While the Bible doesn’t directly address modern drugs, many Bible verses warn against drunkenness, harming your body, and turning to anything over God. Verses about drunkenness, self control, and guarding your heart apply to drug use as well.
How does the Bible remind us to live in freedom from addiction?
The Bible reminds us to be sober-minded and alert, trusting in God rather than substances. Scriptures like 1 Peter 5:8 caution us that the devil prowls like a lion, looking for ways to lead us astray—including through addictive behaviors.
Does God's mercy apply to people struggling with addiction?
Absolutely. God’s mercy is available to everyone, no matter how far they’ve fallen. If you’re struggling with drug addiction, God’s grace can save you. Repent and trust in Jesus Christ. His love isn’t limited by your past or current struggles. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
What do biblical teachings say about harming the body?
Biblical teachings are clear: your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Choices like drug use, excessive drinking, and destructive behavior damage not just your health but your soul. Scripture encourages you to care for your body and honor God through your lifestyle.
Can LINKS help people recover from addictive behaviors?
Yes. LINKS, the Christian recovery track at Northbound Treatment, is designed to help individuals break free from addictive behaviors. By combining professional care with Scripture-based guidance, LINKS helps people heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually.