A new Gallup poll shows two-thirds of Americans (66 percent) now support marijuana legalization, a cultural shift that was reflected in the recent midterm results.

On Election Day, Michigan became the 10th state to legalize recreational marijuana, while voters in Missouri and Utah approved the legalization of medical marijuana. A ballot initiative to legalize recreational pot in North Dakota was the only cannabis measure that failed. (North Dakota is one of 33 states in which medical marijuana is legal.)

The latest Gallup results represent the largest share of U.S. adults supporting marijuana legalization since polling on the question began in 1970 — when only 12 percent were in favor of legalizing the mind-altering drug.

Support for legalization has increased steadily and sharply since 2000, when the share was 31 percent; it reached a majority in 2013, one year after Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize recreational marijuana use.

Gallup reports that across every political party affiliation, geographic region, and age group, majorities of U.S. adults now favor legalizing marijuana.

“As the percentage of Americans who favor legalizing pot has continued to grow, so has the number of states that have taken up legislation to allow residents to use the substance recreationally,” the Gallup report notes.

Church leaders must speak out about the dangers of marijuana in our communities.

Church leaders must speak out about the dangers of marijuana in our communities. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, frequent marijuana users report lower life satisfaction, poorer mental and physical health, and more relationship problems, compared to those who don’t use the drug.

Studies also link marijuana use to poorer academic and career outcomes and an increased risk of accidents and injuries. Research suggests that as many as 30 percent of marijuana users will develop a substance abuse disorder.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), marijuana use can contribute to a variety of mental health problems.

“Marijuana users are significantly more likely than nonusers to develop temporary psychosis (not knowing what is real, hallucinations and paranoia) and long-lasting mental disorders, including schizophrenia,” the CDC website says.

The CDC also warns that “developing brains, like those in babies, children, and teenagers are especially susceptible to the hurtful effects of marijuana.” Making the drug more accessible to teens and expectant mothers may have long-term effects on future generations.

And though there is little research today on the hazards of secondhand smoke from marijuana, preliminary studies suggest it is worse than cigarette smoke.

The apostle Peter writes, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). The Church in America must take a stand, encouraging people to pray, speak the truth in love, resist temptation — and vote.

For more information on this issue, listen to Episode 158 of the Influence Podcast, with George P. Wood and Colorado pastors Phil Steiger and Chad Graham.