Is Gambling a Sin?/What Are the Effects of Gambling?

The Bible's answer

Although the Bible does not discuss gambling in detail, we can discern from the Bible principles that God views gambling as a sin. -Ephesians 5:17. 

* Gambling is driven by greed, which God hates.  (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Ephesians 5:3, 5) Gamblers hope to gain money through the losses of others, but the Bible condemns coveting other people's possessions. -Exodus 20:17; Romans 7:7; 13:9, 10.

* Gambling , even for small amounts, can arouse a destructive love of money. -1 Timothy 6:9, 10. 

* Gamblers often rely on superstitions or luck. However, God views  such beliefs as a form of idolatry, which is incompatible with his worship. -Isaiah 65:11.

* Rather than promote a desire to get something for nothing, the Bible encourages hard work.  (Ecclesiastes 2:24; Ephesians 4:28)  Those who follow the Bible's advice can "eat food they themselves earn." -2 Timothy 3:10, 12.  

* Gambling can arouse an unhealthy competitive spirit, which is disapproved in the Bible. -Galatians 5:26.  

Next time: Is Gambling a Sin?/What Are the Effects of Gambling?

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