Editor’s Note: 2025 Update
Substance abuse continues to impact countless lives across the country. As we walk with individuals and families through addiction recovery every day, we’re reminded that Scripture offers not only clarity about sin but deep compassion and lasting hope. In this updated version of our article, we’ve added new insights to help readers apply biblical truth to real-world recovery in 2025. Whether you’re battling addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, we pray this message strengthens your faith and resolve.
Drug abuse has been written about in many languages and by many people over the centuries. Many of these works are very useful in treatment for addiction, but few have the same impact as the Bible. What does the Bible actually say about addiction or substance abuse? If you read through it looking for that word, you may be disappointed. That’s because the terms “addict” and “addiction” weren’t used during the time the Bible was written. However, just because addiction isn’t directly mentioned in many versions of the Bible doesn’t mean drug rehab centers can’t use scripture to help addicts. Quite the opposite. If you know where to look, you’ll find that the Bible actually says a lot about substance abuse.
What Scripture Says About Addiction and the Body
1 Peter 5:8
The Bible has a number of warnings about the dangers of intoxication, which can be read as abuse of any substance. One such verse is 1 Peter 5:8:
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Alcohol addiction dulls the mind and makes it much easier to fall into destructive behavior. Peter is warning readers that when you’re not sober, you’re more likely to make bad choices. Addicts may start stealing to get drug money and lying to cover their addiction.
Ephesians 5:18
There are a number of scriptures that speak about drinking in the Bible. For example, in Ephesians, Paul writes
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
In most cases, you can replace alcohol with drugs and the meaning of the line remains the same. Paul could certainly have said that addiction leads to debauchery. This scripture also points out that being drunk (or addicted) is counter to being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Proverbs 20:1
Proverbs 20:1 is saying something similar to Ephesians.
“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”
This could be taken as alcohol will make a drunk say horrible things and fight. Substance abuse certainly makes a person do things they wouldn’t usually do. Like Paul, Proverbs contrasts drinking with being wise. Abusing substances is certainly not a wise thing to do.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
These lines speak to taking care of your body. You should not harm that which was created by God in His image. Substance abuse of any kind certainly harms the body and the mind. It can also lead to self-harming and even death. Anything that damaged the body should be avoided.
1 Corinthians 10:13
This verse has to do with temptations, which can certainly include addiction. The key point that addicts and loved ones of addicts should take from this verse is the last sentence:
“But when you are tempted, He [God] will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
It tells addicts that there is always a way back to sobriety. Even when it all seems hopeless, never give up. Addicts can overcome the temptation of drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Faith and Substance Abuse
Is substance abuse considered a sin in the Bible?
While the Bible does not use modern terms like “addiction,” it clearly warns against drunkenness, self-harm, and anything that takes God’s place in our lives. Substance abuse often leads to loss of self-control, which the Bible consistently cautions against. It is not just a moral issue, but a spiritual battle that requires grace, accountability, and transformation.
What Bible verses can help someone struggling with addiction?
Verses like 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Corinthians 5:17, and Romans 12:2 offer hope to those battling addiction. They remind us that temptation can be overcome, new life is possible in Christ, and our minds can be renewed through God’s power.
Can God forgive someone who relapses?
Absolutely. God’s mercy is not limited by our failures. While relapse can be painful, it does not mean you are beyond redemption. Scripture reminds us in Lamentations 3:22–23 that His mercies are new every morning. With repentance, support, and faith, recovery can begin again.
Is substance abuse mentioned directly in the Bible?
While the Bible doesn’t use modern medical terms like “substance abuse,” it strongly warns against drunkenness, being controlled by anything other than the Spirit of God, and the destruction that follows addiction-like behavior (see Proverbs 23:29–35, Ephesians 5:18).
Can Christians take medication and still walk in faith?
Yes. The Bible does not forbid the use of medicine. In fact, 1 Timothy 5:23 references using wine for stomach ailments. The key is whether the use is for healing or escape. When used appropriately, under a doctor’s care, medicine can be part of a redemptive plan for restoration.
What’s the difference between casual use and addiction biblically?
Scripture warns against anything that “masters” you. Even lawful things can become harmful when they control your behavior, relationships, or spiritual life (1 Corinthians 6:12). Addiction crosses the line when it becomes a false refuge instead of turning to God.
How to Apply Biblical Truth in Recovery
The Bible is more than a source of truth, it is a guide for transformation. If you or someone you love is battling substance abuse, here are ways to apply Scripture in your recovery:
- Replace lies with truth. When addiction says “you’re too far gone,” remember Romans 8:1 “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
- Pray daily. Invite the Holy Spirit into your healing. Ask for strength, self-control, and clarity.
- Join a Christ-centered community. Healing often happens in relationship, not isolation. Find a local church or support group.
- Memorize key Scriptures. Equip yourself with truth for moments of temptation or discouragement.
- Keep a journal. Reflect on how God is working in your life and what He is teaching you through the process.
Let Us Help
One of the ways out provided by God is rehab. Good Landing Recovery is here to assist your loved one in taking their life back. We use scripture alongside proven rehab methods to help our patients defeat addiction. If your loved one needs help, reach out to us today. It’s never too late.