How can I quit smoking?

Answer

Many Christians who have been heavy smokers for years can easily empathize with the struggle of anyone attempting to quit smoking and can fully comprehend the challenges faced by those who wish to stop. Quitting is undeniably challenging, but it is achievable. Several individuals who used to smoke two packs a day are now smoke-free and can confirm that it is possible when we surrender the matter to God and rely on His strength and power.

There are numerous reasons why giving up the smoking habit is beneficial for everyone, particularly for Christians. If a Christian is uncertain about why quitting smoking is important and whether it is considered a sin, our article titled “What is the Christian perspective on smoking? Is smoking a sin?” would be a good starting point. The reasons outlined in the article should offer sufficient motivation to a smoker who is still undecided about quitting. Those who have resolved to quit smoking should realize that, from a human perspective, quitting smoking is one of the most challenging tasks. Studies have indicated that nicotine is highly addictive, even more so than heroin, according to some.

However, the addictive nature of nicotine should not dishearten us. Paul reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” «I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. », (Philippians 4:13, NKJV). Despite the difficulty and the fact that complete withdrawal may take time before the craving for cigarettes diminishes, as Christians, we are to look to God, from whom our help comes. We focus our hearts on heavenly things and pray that the Lord will grant us the strength to achieve victory in this trial. Some individuals exclude the Lord from their efforts to overcome bad habits, which is a significant mistake. Prayer is beneficial in such circumstances, and we are encouraged to bring our problems directly to the throne of God and to seek His guidance.I’m who can solve them «Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.», (Hebrews 4:16).

Relying on the power of the Holy Spirit does not necessarily mean that medical stop-smoking aids cannot be used as well. Many have received great help through patches, gums, pills, etc. After prayer and consultation with a doctor, if God gives you peace about using a medical stop-smoking aid, there is no biblical reason why you cannot.

God has declared that His grace is sufficient «And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. », (2 Corinthians 12:9). Where we are weak, He is strong. Our desire for cigarettes will be reduced as we grow and gain strength in the Lord. The power of God will work within us to alleviate the pressure to smoke, all to His glory. God will give us the strength to put Christ first and ourselves last. In this we will find that what we give up will be more than compensated by what we gain.

Being immersed in the Word of God is essential for the Christian who desires to quit smoking. Here are some verses to memorize and meditate on—verses that have helped others gain the victory over a smoking addiction:

John 8:32, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

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.”

Hebrews 12:1–2, “Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud ofWitnesses, let us cast off everything that hinders and the sin that easily entangles us. Let us run with perseverance the race set before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

Romans 13:14, “Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not dwell on how to satisfy the desires of the flesh.”

1 Corinthians 9:27, “I discipline my body and make it my servant so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”

Matthew 19:26, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Ephesians 4:22, “You were taught, concerning your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires.”

Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”