Sometimes when our mind is reproaching us on our actions, we might be tempted to try to find reasons or something to justify our actions, even though we might already know that it is wrong based on their impact. We tend to comfort ourselves and make ourselves feel better about our actions because we enjoy what we do. As a Christian, and someone who was once in this shoes, I asked myself many times this question, Is gambling a sin?
The Bible does not specifically call gambling a sin, but it warns against the love of money and get-rich-quick schemes. People gamble because they are greedy, they want to make a lot of money quickly without putting in the effort necessary to make that much money, it does not matter the reason why you gamble, people gamble in the hope of winning money, and the consequences of gambling can be devastative just like proverb 15:27 says "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live."
To truly understand if gambling is a sin, we have to understand first what is a sin.
What is sin: Sin is the transgression of the law of God, and his will.
First, In 1 John 3:4 KJV, the Bible says "Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."
Second, In Matthew 5: 27-28 KJV, Jesus says: " 27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart."
So sin is not just the physical action of breaking the law of God (The Ten Commandments) it goes beyond the physical act. Sin often extends to thoughts, desires, and motivations. Having hateful thoughts or desires can be considered sinful, even if we don't physically act on them.
Lastly, In James 4:17 KJV, The Bible says: "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin."
In my situation, continuing to gamble would have been a sin, because I knew that gambling was not good for me, and for my life because of its devastating consequences. The good thing to do was to stop gambling, and if I did not do it, it would have become a sin, just like James 4:17 says. I lost all of my savings in gambling at that time, The money that I could have invested, I was gambling with the money that I did not even have in the hope of making my money back. I almost destroyed a good relationship with a good friend of mine, for I did not keep the promise I made them of paying them back on time.
The consequences of gambling in my life were just like proverb 15:27 said "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
What is Gambling and How Does Gambling Impact An Individual?
What is gambling: Gambling is a type of game or process where you take a chance on something by risking something of value you possess (Money, Gold, Jewelry, and more), with the hope of winning something even more valuable. Lastly, The outcome of gambling isn't guaranteed, as it relies on luck or randomness.
Gambling has evolved a lot throughout history, from ancient games of dice, cards, and animal-fight bets to contemporary slot machines, blackjack tables, state lotteries, sports betting apps, and much more. The main rule remains the same, you bet something less valuable in the hope of winning something more valuable. People rely on luck and the outcome is random.
Why Do People Gamble: People gamble because of their love of money or greed, and get-rich-quick schemes. This is what the bible warns us again in 1 Timothy 6: 10 KJV" For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." and the bible also said in Proverbs 13: 11 KJV "Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase."
So gambling is not a way for someone to think about building wealth or making money, as gambling is designed to profit the casino or the gambling company. The outcome of gambling is already set in the long term, you will lose more money than winning.
How Does Gambling Impact An Individual' Life: Gambling can lead to financial problems, with people losing money they can't afford to lose, leading to substantial debt, and affecting credit scores. Gambling is also linked to an increased risk of mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and stress. Gambling can damage relationships with family and friends due to arguments about money and neglected responsibilities. Stress from gambling can manifest in physical problems like sleep disturbances, high blood pressure, and even chronic illnesses. Gambling can easily become addictive, leading to compulsive behaviour and a constant need to gamble despite negative consequences. Lastly, it can lead to an increased risk of suicide.
This is just like proverb 15:27 KJV said "He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
Here are YouTube video stories for people who face Gambling problems:
I will start with myself, but I'm still writing my book where I document every single challenge I face in gambling, and how I was able to fully quit gambling, and recover financially.
I'm A Recovering Gambling Addict and Still Live Paycheck to Paycheck
Overcame a Gambling Addiction and Paid Off $62,000 in 22 Months!
My Husband Has A Gambling Addiction; How Do I Handle Our Finances