Question
Gramps,
I have a question. I have been addicted to marijuana for 20 years and recently quit and began repenting for it. I then had a relapse. Does this mean I have no chance at being forgiven now because I repented for it but did it again ?
Brian
Answer
Brian,
I think it’s both wonderful and commendable that you’ve taken these steps! I feel your disappointment and discouragement. While this should never be used as an excuse to relapse (your sincerity is measured by your desire to keep forging ahead and stay quit!), it’s important for you to know relapse is often a part of recovery. Just like recovery is a process, so is repentance. Moroni 6:7 relates that there were some among the Nephite saints who sinned and refused to repent and that they were excommunicated, then in verse 8 we read this most encouraging phrase: “as oft as they repented and sought forgiveness, with real intent, they were forgiven.” The same goes for us! Take courage and keep trying! Satan would have you give up, but the Savior, YOUR very own advocate with the Father, is rooting for you and is there to bear you up.
One last word of advice: author Steven A. Cramer has written, “What gets your attention gets you.” This is a fact. Remember Peter was able to walk on water as long as his attention was focused on Jesus. If you are able to focus your attention on Christ when you are struggling, you will be tied to His power and He is “mighty to save” (Alma 34:18). My recommendation is to memorize The Living Christ: the Testimony of the Apostles so you can readily shift your focus back to Him.
You’ll do great!
Gramps
