Question of the Day

When Kenneth and Gloria started their journey of faith they had questions too—lots of them! So, we've compiled the most frequently asked questions by people like you—people who earnestly desire to find God's answers to the practical, real-life challenges of everyday living. We have a new question every day, so check back often!

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How can I break a smoking habit?
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Trying to control the flesh is not something you were meant to do on your own. The Apostle Paul wrote of his frustrations: “I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me” (Romans 7:22-23). Be assured Jesus understands the pressures that you are faced with, and He desires to help you. Hebrews 4:15 says, “This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.”

But don’t be discouraged at that. Paul found an answer! Romans 8:1-2 says, “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.” With God’s help, we can walk after the Spirit and not after our fleshly desires!

As Christians, we are born-again spirits, we have souls (minds, wills and emotions) and we live in bodies. Our spirit man is always strong. The trouble begins when we allow our mind (soul) to dwell on sinful thoughts, and when we allow ourselves to remain in compromising positions. When we do this, our fleshly desires will give way to sin. So, avoid situations that tempt you to smoke. Simply stay away from situations, places and people that tempt you to smoke, whenever possible. Don’t give Satan any ammunition to use against you!

Next, fill your mind with the Word of God. Do it daily. You will find that as your mind is being washed by God’s Word, the destructive thoughts and nicotine cravings will become easier to resist. Don’t forget that you’re not fighting alone. God’s grace is available to help you. When you feel tempted, ask the Lord for His help.

If you fall into sin don’t run from God, run to Him. You can repent by saying a prayer from your heart like the following: Father, I sinned against You and right now I choose to turn away from that sin and leave it behind me. I receive cleansing from all sin by the blood of Jesus. I receive Your empowerment to live a holy life right now, in Jesus Name. Amen! You can be assured that the blood of Jesus will never lose its power to cleanse you!