Episode 2 Summary
If the Gospel is true then we don’t have to numb ourselves to our problems because there is real healing and real rest for our pain.
There are a number of reasons that people might be interested in doing drugs. Perhaps, they feel like it might relax them, or give them extra focus, or to get others to like them. But regardless of the specifics of the situation, the choice to use drugs is usually rooted in trying to overcome some sort of pain. The problem with trying to overcome discomfort with substances is this can easily cause an addiction. But we as Christians know that our hope and rest comes from the Lord.
Discussion Questions
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What is the difference between escapism and rest?
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Obviously, there are times that people use things like drugs to alleviate pain or discomfort that are completely healthy. During surgery is a great example. But what makes it okay to use drugs to numb pain some times and not others?
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Has there ever been a time when you were in pain and you used something to numb the pain you shouldn’t have? It could be something that was normally healthy, but when using it as a painkiller became unhealthy. Share that story with your teens.
Diving Deeper
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” James 1:2–3 ESV Attempt to identify some things that you tend to use in order to escape your problems. If you do struggle with escapism, pray for perseverance and the courage to lay your burdens at the feet of Jesus. This poignant short film shows the path many drug users go down. Maybe it starts with escapism or experimentation, but can end in addiction. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUngLgGRJpo&t=0s