What Does The Bible Say About Additions? (25 Bible Verses)
In a world of constant change, it can be tempting to seek additional revelations or teachings beyond what is contained in scripture. But what does the Bible say about such additions? From warnings against false prophets to affirmations of the sufficiency of God’s Word, exploring biblical teachings on additions can offer clarity and guidance in discerning truth from error. Join me as we delve into scripture to discover the timeless principles that safeguard our faith and protect us from deception.
What Does The Bible Say About Additions
1 Corinthians 6:12
““‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but I will not be mastered by anything.”
This verse reminds us that although we have freedom in Christ, not everything is beneficial or edifying for us. We should exercise self-control and not allow ourselves to be mastered or controlled by any addictions or harmful habits.
1 Corinthians 10:23
““‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but not everything is constructive.”
Similar to the previous verse, this reminds us that although we have freedom, not everything is constructive or builds us up. We should consider the impact of our actions and choices on ourselves and others.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse teaches us that in all things, even in our daily activities or habits, we should do them with the intention of bringing glory to God. This includes being mindful of any addictions or dependencies that may hinder our ability to honor God.
Romans 6:12-14
“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness. For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.”
This powerful passage reminds us that as followers of Christ, we should not allow sin or addiction to control us. Instead, we are called to offer ourselves to God and allow His grace to transform us, freeing us from the bondage of sin.
Galatians 5:1
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Christ has set us free from the bondage of sin and addiction. Therefore, we should stand firm in this freedom and resist any temptation or enticement that may lead us back into slavery.
Proverbs 23:29-35
“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end, it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. ‘They hit me,’ you will say, ‘but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?’”
This passage warns against the dangers of alcohol addiction. It depicts the effects of excessive drinking, which can lead to woe, sorrow, strife, and confusion. It serves as a cautionary reminder of the negative consequences of substance abuse.
Ephesians 5:18
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
In contrast to the previous verse, this verse advises against getting drunk on wine or indulging in any form of substance abuse that leads to sinful behavior. Instead, it encourages being filled with the Holy Spirit, finding fulfillment and joy in our relationship with God.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”
This verse warns us about the deceptive nature of alcohol and any addictive substances. It cautions that those who allow themselves to be led astray by them are not demonstrating wisdom. It serves as a reminder to be vigilant and make wise choices that honor God.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
This verse encourages us to be alert and have self-control, especially in regard to addictions or harmful habits. The enemy seeks to exploit our weaknesses, so it is crucial to be vigilant and maintain a sober mind, relying on God’s strength to resist temptation.
1 Timothy 4:7-8
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
While physical training has its benefits, this verse reminds us that spiritual training and pursuing godliness are far more valuable. This includes training ourselves to resist addictions and harmful habits, knowing that godliness holds promises for this life and the life to come.
James 1:14-15
“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”
This passage emphasizes the progression of temptation and sin. It emphasizes that temptation begins with evil desires but can be resisted through the grace of God. However, when one gives in to temptation, it gives birth to sin, which separates us from God and ultimately leads to spiritual death.
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
This verse provides comfort and assurance to those struggling with addictions. It reminds us that God is present, and He will strengthen, help, and uphold us with His righteous right hand. It encourages us to trust in His power and seek His guidance in overcoming any form of addiction.
Psalm 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
David’s heartfelt prayer in this verse shows his desire for God to purify his heart and grant him a steadfast spirit. This prayer can also be applied to anyone struggling with addictions, as it reflects the need for God’s transformative work in their lives.
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This verse reminds us that our hope in the Lord brings renewed strength. As we rely on Him, we can soar above the challenges of addiction, finding the endurance to run our race without growing weary and walk in His strength without growing faint.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
This verse proclaims the transformative power of being in Christ. It reminds us that through faith in Him, we become a new creation, free from the bondage of our past addictions, and empowered to live a new life in Him.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Paul’s statement in this verse reflects his unwavering confidence in Christ’s strength working within him. This truth applies to overcoming addictions as well. Through Christ, we have the power to overcome any addiction and live in victory.
Psalm 119:11
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
This verse highlights the importance of immersing ourselves in God’s Word. By internalizing His truth, we can guard our hearts against the allure of addiction and live in obedience to Him.
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
In this comforting invitation, Jesus acknowledges that life can be burdensome, including the struggles of addiction. However, He promises rest and relief for those who come to Him, offering His gentle and humble presence as a source of comfort and liberation.
Hebrews 12:1-2
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
This encouraging passage urges believers to cast off anything that hinders them, including addictions and sin. It invites us to run our race with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus, who has gone before us and provides the ultimate example of faith and endurance.
Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
This comforting verse reminds us that God hears the cry of the righteous and delivers them from all their troubles. He is near to those who are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit, offering solace, healing, and deliverance from the grip of addiction.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
This verse encourages us to prioritize seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness above all else. As we pursue a relationship with Him and align ourselves with His will, we can trust that He will provide all we need, including the strength to overcome addictions.
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
This verse invites us to find our delight in the Lord. As we draw near to Him and align our hearts with His, He promises to grant the desires of our hearts. By finding our satisfaction in Him, the allure of worldly addictions diminishes.
Psalm 51:17
“My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”
In this humble prayer of repentance, David acknowledges that God does not despise a broken and contrite heart. When we recognize our addictions and come before God with a genuine desire for change and surrender, He receives us with love and grace.
James 4:7-8
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
This powerful passage instructs us to submit ourselves to God and resist the devil. As we draw near to God, He draws near to us, providing the strength to resist temptation and overcome addictions. It encourages us to purify our hearts, seeking wholeheartedly after God’s righteousness.
In conclusion, these Bible verses offer guidance, encouragement, and hope for those struggling with addictions of any kind. They remind us of the power of God’s grace, the need for self-control, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. May these verses serve as a source of inspiration and strength as we seek freedom from any form of addiction, relying on God’s unfailing love and guidance.
