Is it wrong to take pain medication?

Response

Some individuals question the appropriateness of a Christian using pain medication due to its potential effects on perception, awareness, consciousness, or the risk of physical addiction. It is essential to note that the Bible does not explicitly prohibit the use of medicine. Medications themselves are not inherently malevolent. In fact, the Bible mentions Timothy’s necessity to “take a little wine” for his ailments «No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments. », (1 Timothy 5:23). Additionally, Luke was a physician «Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you. », (Colossians 4:14). Therefore, there is no wrongdoing in utilizing medicine; it is the misuse that is condemned by the Bible.

There exists a significant distinction between an individual who abuses prescription medication through overindulgence or misuse and someone with a severe illness who follows a doctor’s prescribed medication for symptom relief. In the former scenario, there is a covetous or lustful desire for a physical substance leading to law-breaking and potential harm to oneself and others; whereas in the latter, the individual is responsibly leveraging scientific advancements and, under medical guidance, appropriately managing unpleasant symptoms with medication.

During the era when the Bible was written, alcohol was commonly used to alleviate pain and discomfort «Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress. », (Proverbs 31:6). While alcohol can be subject to abuse, its consumption is not inherently immoral, particularly when used for medicinal purposes.It is essential to guard against the misuse of alcohol and pain relievers (Proverbs 23:20; Romans 13:13; Galatians 5:19-21; Ephesians 5:18-21; 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8).

The Bible emphasizes our duty to take care of our bodies. In 1 Corinthians 6:19, it states, “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.” As Christians who have been transformed, our physical bodies, along with our hearts, minds, and souls, belong to God. Therefore, we should never engage in activities that would harm, deface, or disrespect ourselves. Substance abuse leads to physical harm, loss of self-control, and inhibition. Christians are urged to live sensibly and vigilantly to effectively represent the gospel at all times «but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: », (1 Peter 3:15), which necessitates being clear-minded and in command of one’s faculties.

Therefore, we should not surrender control of our bodies or allow them to be dominated by substance abuse. However, we should also not enslave our bodies by depriving them of necessary care, including medication. While a temporary fast from food may be appropriate, subjecting our ailing bodies to unnecessary suffering when reasonable remedies are available is futile and ungodly. God has graciously allowed the field of medicine to progress to a stage where experts can efficiently diagnose, serve, and treat the sick. Medicine, at its best, is a tool that mankind can utilize to counteract some of the adverse effects of the Fall, which introduced pain, sickness, and death into the world.

Medicine, such as pain relievers, can only benefit us if we use it responsibly.

To conclude, there is no harm in using pain medication. Following a proper medical treatment plan recommended by a doctor is never criticized in the Bible; instead, medicine should be viewed as a gift from God, provided as an efficient treatment for pain and sickness. It is the misuse or excessive consumption of these substances, or violating the regulations governing their use, that is criticized.