As we write this, at least two states have decriminalized the recreational use of marijuana. It and many other drugs or substances have been used to change or alter the mood of individuals. This writer is not a medical doctor, or psychologist, and disclaims any medical expertise. There are, without doubt, a few who need monitoring that have severe swings of mood and might injure themselves or others that need help through a doctor trained in that particular area. We are convinced, however, that there is a great deal of abuse of both legal (prescription) and illegal drugs not only in our nation, but also in the world. Biblically the apostle Paul wrote, "All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any" (1 Corinthians 6:12). There are also many warnings throughout the Bible concerning the abuse of alcohol such as 1 Thessalonians 5:5; Ephesians 5:18 and 1 Corinthians 6:10.
Great danger is involved in using any of the mood altering substances. For example, when one who committed grievous sin is feeling down and guilty, should he take something that will make him feel euphoric or does he need to repent of his sin, and do whatever God requires for him to receive forgiveness? The message of John the Baptist when he began to prepare the way for Jesus was to "Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 3:2). When one uses any substance that would suppress the need to change one's mind and do what is right then God's plan is circumvented!
We recently read an article by a medical doctor who denied that there are children who have ADHD. We have long thought that this diagnosis is a "cop out" for many parents. Statistically most of the children so diagnosed are boys, and the symptoms vary, but generally, they are hyperactive, with short attention spans, fidgeting, lack of attention to details, poor listener, and so on. When we note that children today do not engage in much physical activity, as previous generations, but rather play on video games, watch TV, and such, it is no wonder that they have energy that is brimming over all the time. In most families there is so much involved in "making a living" that both parents are tired in the evenings, and spend little time and attention on children. Without doubt, there are children that genuinely have problems and need medical help. What ought to be done is temporary medications and counseling of the family. It ought never be a permanent long-term solution.
There are very legitimate uses of most of the substances that God placed on the earth. However, long term use of things that change one's personality negatively, should not be used. Again, the apostle Paul wrote, "All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any" (1 Corinthians 6:12). When Jesus was near death some tried to give Him wine mixed with gall to ease His pain, (Matthew 27:34), and the wise man of Proverbs recommends wine for those who are perishing (Proverbs 31:6). However to use either of these remedies on a regular basis would be harmful. Mind-altering drugs are harmful because they mask the real problems one faces rather than confronting them and dealing with them, as God would have us. It is simply treating the symptoms and allowing the disease to work its evil on us!
Ed Rodgers, Forney, TX
