A Smoker’s Prayer

Dear God: I feel absolutely helpless and weak-willed right now. Monday was the big day; I was going to quit smoking for sure. That lasted until the afternoon break. I started again this morning, and by noon I’d gone out back by the dumpster—twice—and had a cigarette. It kind of made me feel like a jerk and I’m pretty discouraged. More than anything I want to quit smoking.

My addiction is more than I can bear! That nicotine craving, especially after I get through a hard phone call . . . it throbs from head to toe. Plus after fifteen years of sucking on these things, the entire routine is a beloved enemy: buying the carton, opening a pack, sliding out that first of twenty beautiful, fresh, unlit babies, flicking my lighter . . .

I hate how I love it so much.

Father, I know “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” but those ten words don’t seem to be lining up against my habit with any apparent effectiveness. I need you now! Please help me! Help me tomorrow to run to you before the craving hits, to be strong enough in your power to take a walk instead of a smoke, to say no to Mindy when she teases me.

I know being free from tobacco will please and honor you, and I want to be your obedient and victorious child. I’ll cooperate the best I can, but if this turns into a victory, hey, it’s going to have to be all yours, ‘cause I’m basically unarmed and out of ammo here.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

If you enjoyed this you may like, How to Stop Smoking.

David B. Smith writes from Southern California

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