The Bible doesn’t explicitly condemn gambling, but it warns against the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10; Hebrews 13:5). Scripture advises against seeking quick riches (Proverbs 13:11; 23:5; Ecclesiastes 5:10) and promotes hard work (2 Thessalonians 3:10; Proverbs 14:23). Gambling focuses on the love of money and offers easy riches.
Gambling in Moderation
While the Bible doesn’t mention gambling directly, it does refer to events of “chance” or “luck.” For instance, lots were cast to make decisions such as choosing sacrificial animals (Leviticus 16:8), distributing land (Joshua 18:10), and selecting people for tasks (Nehemiah 11:1; Acts 1:26). However, these instances don’t justify gambling for personal gain.
Ethical Concerns
Gambling exploits others’ misfortune, relying on someone else’s loss for one’s gain. Seeking financial gain at others’ expense is not just foolish but also unethical.
Casinos and Lotteries
Casinos use various tactics to encourage excessive gambling, often providing alcohol to impair judgment. The system is designed to take large sums of money while offering only temporary thrills. Lotteries, marketed as funding education or social programs, disproportionately affect low-income households, preying on those who can least afford it.
Biblical Wisdom
First Timothy 6:10 warns that the love of money leads to various evils. Hebrews 13:5 advises contentment and trust in God, not in wealth. Serving God and money simultaneously is incompatible (Matthew 6:24).
Conclusion
Gambling misuses God-given resources, bypasses honest work, fosters greed, and rejoices in others’ misfortune. Christians should avoid gambling and materialism.