Divine Design and the Will: How Substance Use Changes a Person

In this episode of Rescue 180, Rev. Debra Shultz continues the series on divine design by addressing a critical and often misunderstood topic: the human will, and how substance use can violate it. Rev. Debra explains why addiction causes such dramatic changes in behavior, personality, and decision-making. She walks listeners through both the physical and spiritual effects of substance use, using methamphetamine, prescription drugs, alcohol, and other substances as examples of how the brain and the will are impacted over time. This episode sheds light on why people often say, “This is not the same person anymore,” and what is really happening beneath the surface. Drawing from years of working with individuals and families affected by addiction, Rev. Debra discusses how early exposure, trauma, and accessibility play a role in shaping addiction, and why prevention and education are so important. She emphasizes that addiction does not just affect the body or the brain, but the body, soul, and spirit together. This episode also clarifies the mission of Rescue 180, which is not to fix people but to help rebuild what has been broken through mental health support, spiritual care, physical restoration, and community connection. It is an honest and direct conversation about responsibility, recovery, and restoring the will so that healing can truly begin.