Monday, 27^th October, 2025

Bible Reading: Matthew 11:28

Memory Verse:  Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit… Therefore, honour God with your bodies. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)

Substance abuse is the misuse of drugs or alcohol in ways that damage our body, mind, relationships, and purpose. It means depending on substances like alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, or even prescription drugs to escape pain, fill a void, or feel “normal.” But behind this mask is a deeper spiritual cry for healing, identity, and peace.

Real-Life Struggles: Across the world, people, both young and old, battle the chains of addiction. A teenager starts vaping out of peer pressure. A father turns to alcohol to numb financial stress. A student abuses pills to stay awake for exams. What begins as relief turns into bondage.

Common Substances Abused: Alcohol, Tobacco, Cannabis (marijuana), Prescription medications (e.g., painkillers, sedatives, stimulants), Illegal drugs (e.g., cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines).

Signs of Substance Abuse:

1. Inability to stop using a drug despite wanting to.

2. Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home.

3. Relationship problems

4. Legal or financial troubles

5. Increased tolerance or withdrawal symptoms

6. Using substances in dangerous situations (e.g., driving)

Why is Substance Abuse Dangerous? Substance abuse can lead to:

1. Addiction (a chronic brain disease)

2. Mental health disorders (like depression or anxiety)

3. Health problems (liver failure, heart disease, infections)

4. Social consequences (loss of job, family breakdown)

Spiritual Impact: Substance abuse doesn’t just hurt the body. It dulls our spiritual senses. It beclouds judgment, opens doors to destructive influences, and creates distance between us and God. When people are under the influence, they often lose sight of purpose, dignity, and destiny.

Practical Steps to Freedom:

1. Pray daily for strength and healing

2. Stay in the Word to renew your mind

3. Seek support (counsellors, pastors, accountability groups).

4. Replace addiction with purpose – hobbies, service, and calling.

5. Build healthy relationships with those who uplift and not tempt.

Quote: Many people are trying to steady themselves by taking tranquilizers. Jesus is the greatest tranquilizer of all. He can straighten out your life and put you back on centre – Billy Graham.

Prophetic Decree: Receive your spiritual, mental, social and psychological deliverance from the grip of substance abuse, in Jesus name. 

Prayer Focus 

Lord Jesus, I am sorry for desecrating my body. Here I am tired of myself and unable to help myself. Please help me. Deliver me from every easily besetting sin and negative addiction. Purge my mind with your blood. Rewire my brain. Deliver me from the grip of substance abuse. Holy Spirit, please help me to identify and mutilate my triggers. Please keep me standing in righteousness till the end. Amen. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:  Luke 14-15