John 10:1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that enters not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
If a person has a bad gambling habit, and is stressed out because of financial mayhem, that person could call 888-admit it and the resources and help needed will be given to such a person and he/ she can, and in many instances, do recover from the thralldom of gambling. This could be accomplished without any intervention from God.
Smokers can buy nicotine patches, or persons could gradually phase out the habit through counselling, the use of Juul, or by sheer will power. In fact, some have been known to cut the habit “Cold- turkey” as it were, and some never suffered recidivism. Yet, if that person does not experience God’s salvation, he or she is still in captivity, according to the scripture.
Again, if a person has been struggling with alcohol abuse for many years that person can call Alcoholics Anonymous, and they would receive the help, and resources to kick the habit. Folks do not necessarily need God to do that. The same goes for drug and substance abuse, for there are many resources available locally, and at the federal level to help persons overcome, and it is a fact that many persons have benefitted positively by such ongoing efforts.
Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!