Can A Person Be A Smoker & Still Be Saved

[OneAccord]

Not to justify smoking, but, we need to bear in mind that smoking is not just a "habit" like biting fingernails is a habit. Smoking, chewing, dipping is a chemical dependency. Nicotine is one of the most addictive chemicals known to man. I know its hard for people who have never used tobacco to understand why it is so hard for people to stop the disgusting habit. Its because its not just a habit. I read recently that the chemicals in tobacco products are more addictive than in Meth. Some of the chemicals are naturally occuring, but many are injected into the product to keep people addicted.

I realized that I didn't answer the question. No, I don't think a person will be lost for being chemically dependant on tobacco. However, as they grow in the Lord, I believe the Holy Spirit will 1) convict them for the harm they are doing to themselves and to others, and 2) will "endue them with power from on high" to stop.

[Michael Phelps]

Originally Posted by OneAccord

Not to justify smoking, but, we need to bear in mind that smoking is not just a "habit" like biting fingernails is a habit. Smoking, chewing, dipping is a chemical dependency. Nicotine is one of the most addictive chemicals known to man. I know its hard for people who have never used tobacco to understand why it is so hard for people to stop the disgusting habit. Its because its not just a habit. I read recently that the chemicals in tobacco products are more addictive than in Meth. Some of the chemicals are naturally occuring, but many are injected into the product to keep people addicted.

I don't care if a person is a Christian or an atheist, smoking is one of the most foolish things you can do to your body!

Forget whether it's heaven or hell, it's plain stupid!

I sympathize with those who are addicted, but there are several programs, medications, patches, gums, etc that can help one break free of this.

[OneAccord]

Originally Posted by Michael Phelps

I don't care if a person is a Christian or an atheist, smoking is one of the most foolish things you can do to your body!

Forget whether it's heaven or hell, it's plain stupid!

I sympathize with those who are addicted, but there are several programs, medications, patches, gums, etc that can help one break free of this.

I absolutely, positively and without reservation, DISAGREE with you, Micheal Phelps!!!!

Smoking is not ONE of the most foolish things a person can do to his or her body....







its THE most foolish thing you can do to your body!


Gums, patches and medicines are only as effective as the smokers willpower is strong! I taught a class one time for people who were trying to break addictive behavior. Actually, it was a program for prison inmates (this was back when people believd in "rehabilitation"). Something like AA, the program had steps to help break the addiction. In the study guide I wrote, "Building a Better YOU", I wrote about the power to change (this was a non-religious group). I wrote: "The Power to Change is your DESIRE to Change". I wrote there are 3 keys to change that are necessary: 1) Knowing we need to change, 2) Knowing how to change, and 3) Desiring to change.The last one (3) requires resolve, determination and, a change of lifestyle. Thats the hardest one for people to get- enough desire to "pay the price"!