The devil’s trap: How he uses drugs and alcohol

The Devil’s Deception: How Substance Use Tricks You Into Feeling ‘Good Enough’

In a world full of struggles, self-doubt, and insecurities, many turn to substances like alcohol or drugs to escape reality, gain confidence, or feel like a “better version” of themselves. But have you ever stopped to wonder—who is telling you that you’re not good enough just as you are? Who plants the thought that you need something artificial to be confident, outgoing, or at peace?

This is one of the devil’s greatest deceptions: making you believe that your God-given identity isn’t enough.

The Enemy’s Lies

John 10:10 warns us: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

Satan is a master manipulator. He whispers lies into your mind, convincing you that you need a drink to feel comfortable in social settings, or a drug to numb the pain of your past. He tells you that your natural self isn’t enough—that you need an external substance to truly be the person you were “meant to be.” But this is far from the truth.

God made you in His image (Genesis 1:27), and His Word affirms that you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). If you were truly lacking something, God would have placed it within you. Yet the enemy wants you to believe that without these substances, you’re inadequate.

The False Confidence

Drugs and alcohol may temporarily give you a sense of confidence, courage, or peace. You may feel like you can speak freely, loosen up, or even be the life of the party. But what happens when the effects wear off?

The confidence fades. The anxiety returns. The peace is gone. And often, the guilt sets in.

The devil’s goal is to keep you trapped in this cycle, making you believe that the only way to feel “good enough” again is to return to the very thing that enslaves you. It’s a counterfeit version of the true freedom and confidence that only comes through Christ.

The True Confidence in Christ

When you rely on substances for confidence or joy, you’re settling for an artificial, temporary fix instead of embracing the unshakable identity God has given you.

2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” You don’t need a drink to feel bold. You don’t need a drug to feel peace. God has already equipped you with everything you need.

The enemy wants you to forget that. But Jesus came so that you could have true, abundant life—not a life dependent on anything other than Him.

Breaking Free

If you’ve been relying on substances to feel better about yourself, it’s time to recognize the deception and break free. Here’s how:

1. Recognize the Lie – Acknowledge that the belief that you’re not enough without substances is a lie from the enemy.
2. Turn to God’s Word – Meditate on scriptures that affirm your worth and identity in Christ.
3. Pray for Strength – Ask God to help you overcome temptation and rely on Him for confidence.
4. Seek Support – Surround yourself with believers who will encourage you in your walk with Christ.
5. Find Purpose in God – When you embrace your God-given purpose, you won’t need a false sense of confidence from substances.

Final Thoughts

The enemy wants you to believe you’re not good enough, that you need an external crutch to be who you were meant to be. But the truth is, God has already given you everything you need.

Don’t fall for the trick. Choose the freedom, confidence, and joy that only come from walking with Christ.

Remember, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)

Walk in that freedom today.