More Reasons Not to Smoke Weed
7. It makes a teen more open to moral compromise.
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” Ephesians 5:18
Drunkenness “leads to debauchery,” and so does smoking weed. Debauchery means “abandoned to sensuality and lust; dissoluteness, debauchery, revelry.” Saying “no” to sin is hard enough, even when your senses aren’t dulled by drugs and alcohol. So if you want to stay pure, stay sober by staying drug-free.
8. It dishonors a Christian teen’s body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
“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.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-21
Think of your body as a temple (because it is) where God dwells (because he does!). That’s one of the essential reasons not to smoke weed.
When Christian teenagers look at their bodies this way, why in the world would they want to fill it with a substance that negatively impacts it? Let’s not fill his temple full of smoke!
9. It impedes a teenager’s ability to pray with a clear mind.
“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” 1 Peter 4:7
God calls us to keep our minds clear so we can pray. Marijuana clouds clear minds. Enough said.
10. It robs teens of their ability to be effective witnesses for Jesus Christ.
“For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. ” 1 Peter 4:3-5
Christian teenagers who choose not to engage in drunkenness and drug use may get mocked by their indulging friends. But it’s their refusal to indulge that can open up doors for powerful Gospel conversations.
Every Christian teenager has an opportunity to be a witness for Jesus. But marijuana use severely impacts their ability to credibly share that Jesus is our only source of true joy and life. That why we need to share and reinforce these reasons not to smoke weed.
If you’re a parent, I challenge you to go over this list with your preteens and teenagers. If you’re a youth leader, make it the theme of a youth group meeting. Teach these 10 reasons not to smoke weed. And be sure to add a discussion time afterward.
In a world that is increasingly open to marijuana use, let’s help teenagers be clear-minded, pure-hearted witnesses for the Lord Jesus Christ.
