Much has been made about “gambling” in our society. To be up front and honest, I do not know anything about betting, playing the lottery, sports betting, or gambling. I do not know the process of putting “money down” on an event, game, or competition. I am not totally naïve, I understand that if you and I are “betting,” we agree on a prize (generally money). If I win, I reap the reward. If you win, you reap the reward that we agreed upon. “Gambling” takes many forms. In our state it has been around for a long, long time. I do not know anyone who “won” and was content. I do not know anyone who became addicted to gambling and was happy they were.
Most recently, the law now permits “legalized betting” in our state. This bill was signed into law by our Governor on March, 31, 2023. Since that time, tons of money has been spent on “getting the word out” that sports betting is not only legal, but our news outlets and social media accounts have been inundated with various venues and “apps” as to how one can begin this addiction. Side note, I find it ironic that at the end of each radio commercial a “1-800” help number is listed for those who are dealing with the addiction or if someone feels they may become addicted. This number can be called for assistance. Why not just abstain from gambling instead of “playing the numbers?”
Gambling is wasting money and creates a love of money that is sinful (I Tim. 6:10). The Mayo Clinic documents the perils of gambling by saying gamblers become preoccupied with planning how they can get more money, will lie to family members to hide gambling losses, and will resort to theft or fraud to gamble more (just to name a few). Life is not a game, but the numbers we should focus on are 316 238 413!
John 3:16 says For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Acts 2:38 says Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Philippians 4:13 says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Let’s focus on the promises of God and not the pitfalls of gambling! No bet is needed, just commitment to Christ.
