Becoming the thing we abhor

This one will be quick, but good. I gotta run to work here in 4 min. So talking with a friend yesterday we came up with the idea why many Christians don't smoke, drink, or even hang out in social contexts with non-believers. A spirit-filled life lived under God's grace and sovereignty is what I seek. The problem with telling yourself no to all of these things, even if done under moderation is troubling to me. I believe that they are scared that they would let themselves fall victim to temptations, thus not trusting themselves. I believe this goes deeper into the fact that they don't trust the Holy Spirit to guide them, thus leading their own decision making to replace God. They themselves a created an idol while all the while trying to stay away from one. Idolatry in it's simplest, and most hidden form. I do not believe that giving into everything is beneficial, Paul even talks about this, but did not Jesus drink with pharisees and "sinners." Don't forget you were a sinner condemned to die before you trusted Jesus with your life. I would ask that believers everywhere live like you were condemned, but also redeemed by the Blood of Jesus, so that Grace may about in you. Don't replace the spirit with yourself. Trust God, and if you truly love and follow him your life will show the fruits, of his work on the cross through your life.