What the Bible says about Addiction

Addiction

Also called: Alcoholism, Drug Addiction, Obsession
Being enslaved to a habit, practice or substance such that withdrawal causes trauma.

Top Bible Verses about Addiction

John 8:34

Jesus replied to them, “Truly, truly I say to you, that everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. Read John 8:34

Philippians 3:18–19

For many live, of whom I spoke about to you many times, but now speak about even weeping, as the enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose God is the stomach, and whose glory is in their shame, the ones who think on earthly things. Read Philippians 3:18–19

1 Timothy 3:8

Deacons likewise must be dignified, not insincere, not devoted to much wine, not fond of dishonest gain, Read 1 Timothy 3:8

Titus 3:3

For we also were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, enslaved to various desires and pleasures, spending our lives in wickedness and envy, despicable, hating one another. Read Titus 3:3

2 Peter 2:19

promising them freedom although they themselves are slaves of depravity. For to whatever someone succumbs, by this he is also enslaved. Read 2 Peter 2:19

Famous Christian Quotes About Addiction, Alcoholism, Drug Addiction, Obsession

Persistent Sins Are Hard to Uproot

“If we plant a plant or a shrub and water it every day, it will grow so sturdy that we shall need a spade and a fork to tear it up. This appears to be the case with any fault, however small, that we commit daily, unless we amend it; though it is easy to uproot it when it has only grown for a day or even for ten days. We must pray to our Lord to grant us this amendment, for on our own account we can do little except add to our sins instead of giving them up.”

—Teresa of Ávila

Cut Off Attachments Immediately

“However small an attachment may be, do not be too confident that you can cut it off at any time, but cut it off at once: for if you do not have the courage to destroy it when it is but beginning, how can you presume upon success when it has taken root and grown?”

—John of the Cross

The Progression of Sin

First we practice sin, then defend it, then boast of it. Sin is first our burden, then our custom, then our delight, then our excellency.

—Thomas Manton

Additional resources

Topical Bible verses