What About Gambling?

What is the guiding force in your life? As a Christian, it should be God’s Word. Christians respond to God’s word in a positive way. A child of God is guided by a daily response to God’s word.

God’s Word is not just a book of dos and don’ts. Nor is there a direct specific command for every possible action. The Bible does, however, contain principles given by Jesus to help Christians make decisions about his or her conduct. Second Peter 1:3 tells us God has given us “all things that pertain to life and Godliness.” Second Timothy 3:16, 17 says God’s word is profitable “for instruction in righteousness” that we may be “mature” and “thoroughly equipped for all good works.”

God’s Word gives us principles to guide us. Matthew 5:16 says “let your lights shine” so that “others can see your good works and glorify your Father.” Colossians 3:1-3 reminds us to “set your affections on things above, not on the things on earth.” Romans 12:1, 2 urges us to not be “conformed to this world.” And 1 John 2:15-17 tells us not to “love the things of this world” for that leads us into temptation.

Let’s apply these principles to something we continually confront right here in our area: that is gambling. It has become very common in the form of lottery, casinos, etc.

Gambling is defined “to play games for money or some other stake (or property); to take a risk in order to gain some advantage; to bet or wager.

The Biblical view of work does not allow a “something for nothing” philosophy. Second Thessalonians 3:10-12 and Ephesians 4:28 say we should be engaged in honorable work. We are not to try to get what the other person has. That involves covetousness.

Biblical stewardship teaches against gambling. Psalm 24:1 and 50:10-12 says God owns all. We are stewards of what God has allowed us to have. We are accountable to God for what has been entrusted to us. Think of the parable of the talents Jesus taught.

The second greatest commandment of loving our neighbor as ourselves restricts us from gambling. Remember - winnings come from other people - not from the state or the gambling institution! Consider the “Golden Rule” in Matthew 7:12.

Gambling destroys one’s influence as a Christian. In 1 Thessalonians 5:21, 22 Paul warns that we are to “abstain from every form of evil.” And Romans 12:9 says to “abhor (hate) what is evil” and both these passages say to “cling to what is good.” Christians must set the standard.

Does money come to the state coffers from gambling? Yes. Are roads built, schools helped, etc.? - yes. But, what about God’s principles? What about the fact that gambling is addictive and gains control of one’s life and possessions? What about the crime element involved? What about broken families, lost jobs, ruined friendships, people who are now in prison? Gambling has no place in a Christian’s life and is not a boon to our society.

Christians should not fall into the trap of supporting such an industry.

See you when the saints meet, Lord willing.

Love, Tony