Many religions and faith traditions prohibit some mind-altering substances even while allowing others. Other cultures or belief systems embrace such substances as tools to spiritual enlightenment. 

This message neither challenges nor condones recreational, medicinal, or spiritual use of such substances. Rather, it expressly decries the notion that addiction is a moral failing, character flaw, or sin.

Dabbling with substances is an exercise in choice and accountability—some call it a sin—but habituation, physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction eventually overwhelm one’s agency or choice. And, if one cannot choose, they cannot sin. Most souls who struggle with addiction would choose to quit if it were that simple. Labeling them as criminals, reprobates, or sinners neither helps them nor honors their struggle.

Addiction is a medical condition. Relapse is not failure; it’s part of the illness. Labeling strugglers as sinners is more destructive than their addiction. Labels are often the root cause of their addiction. 

Ministering to our neighbors is not about judging them. Labeling is easier than loving, but loving is always the answer.