STIGMA DISCRIMINATION
(Substance Abuse vs Sexual Immorality)

We live in a society that discriminates against drunkenness and drug addiction but tolerates adultery and illegitimate relationships. Perhaps, it may even reward sexual lawlessness.

Under such circumstances, the recovering addict (or ex-addict) has to make a living in a world that promotes one type of sin and punishes for another. It is a very important employment and economic factor.

Many people have difficulty fully recovering from negative addiction. It is easier to recover from the substance problem than the relationship issues. For instance, even if a person wants to live a biblical, sexually clean life, if his potential employer knows it, he may not want anyone to interfere in the team moral (non-discriminate against sexual immorality). The righteous thought and act of living a life approved of God may make others feel alerted and uncomfortable. However, on the other hand, if the person is merely recovering from the substance abuse problem and has no gripes against immorality in other ways, the employment personnel manager may see that as tolerable and even be willing (favoring partial recovery and progress) to help him along.

Christians must be willing to endure this stigma discrimination. We must suffer earnings loss and many other things. Whatever the cost, we must not allow any sin to rule over us. Purity is honorable and God is our strength. Blessed are those who overcome.