Addictions and Recovery

Addiction

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often erroneously referred to as the Mormon Church, has received a health code by commandment from God through modern prophets, called the Word of Wisdom. Latter-day Saints are commanded not to drink coffee, tea, or alcohol, use tobacco products, illegal drugs, or to abuse legal drugs. The reasons are not just to enhance health, but to guarantee agency. One’s agency, or freedom to choose, is compromised by addiction to anything. Therefore, the Church has also spoken out against addictive and destructive behaviors, such as gambling and indulging in pornography. Addictive substances and behaviors do not just compromise agency, they corrupt the mind and body until the Holy Ghost cannot abide in the unholy tabernacle. Therefore, addicted persons find themselves without the constant companionship of the Holy Spirit as their guide. Church president Russell M. Nelson has said,

We are free to take drugs or not. But once we choose to use a habit-forming drug, we are bound to the consequences of that choice. Addiction surrenders later freedom to choose. Through chemical means, one can literally become disconnected from his or her own will!”

A third consequence of addiction is that many crimes and unfortunate incidents are committed by individuals who have surrendered their bodies and minds to addictive substances. Because addictions rob an individual of his or her self-control and of his ability to make smart choices, these addictions often lead to bad behavior and feelings of frustration and a loss of self-worth. Satan will use any means he can, including addictions, to control one’s thoughts and actions and to make one forget that he is a child of God. (See M. Russell Ballard, “O That Cunning Plan of the Evil One”) Many studies have proven the connection between alcohol use and sexual transgression, and drug use and crime.

To read the entire article: MormonWiki