By Oladipo Oluwatosin
Introduction
Gambling, in its various forms such as betting, lottery, and speculative gaming, has become a cultural norm in many societies. Yet, for a Christian, it poses a grave spiritual, moral, economic, and social threat. Like Goliath of Gath who stood tall against God's people, gambling stands as a destructive force against spiritual growth and godly relevance. This essay explores why and how gambling must be slain by Christians, its harmful effects, what the Bible says, biblical examples, scholarly opinions, and its impact on economic development.
Devil is really investing in this war against humanity as most betting centres now parley or operate side by side with POS agent for easy transactions.
The goliath is winning many people to it side via economic treat, hardship and some Christians, ministers are surrendering to it because they lack faith in the Jehovah Jireh. Are you not in the trap too?
Why Gambling Must Die for a Christian to Be Relevant
A Christian is called to live by faith, stewardship, and responsibility—not by chance or covetousness. Gambling thrives on greed, luck, and quick wealth without labor. This contradicts Christian principles of contentment, hard work, and trust in God's provision.
- Spiritual Misalignment: Gambling promotes dependence on chance, while Christianity calls for trust in God (Proverbs 3:5-6).
- Loss of Focus on Purpose: Instead of pursuing destiny through diligence, gamblers are lured by the illusion of instant riches (1 Timothy 6:9-10).
- Moral Compromise: It creates an appetite for risk-taking that often leads to other sins—lying, cheating, theft, and even violence.
Therefore, for a Christian to maintain relevance in God's kingdom and on earth, gambling must be decisively killed like David killed Goliath—fearlessly, with truth, and by the Spirit of God.
How Gambling Must Die
- Repentance: Acknowledge it as sin and turn from it (Acts 3:19).
- Discipline: Avoid gambling environments and apps.
- Financial Stewardship: Budgeting, saving, and investing righteously (Proverbs 21:5).
- Renewed Mind: Fill the heart with God’s Word and trust in His promises (Romans 12:2).
- Accountability: Seek mentorship, counseling, and godly company.
Biblical Analysis of Gambling
While the Bible does not directly use the term “gambling”, it condemns the attitudes and behaviors associated with it.
a. Key Scriptures Against Gambling
- 1 Timothy 6:9-10 – “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare...”
- Proverbs 13:11 – “Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished...”
- Ecclesiastes 5:10 – “He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver...”
- Luke 12:15 – “Take heed, and beware of covetousness...”
b. Biblical Example of Gambling
The only semblance of gambling in the Bible is casting lots, especially when soldiers cast lots for Jesus' garments (John 19:24). This was not endorsed by God; it was a symbol of indifference and mockery. It teaches us that gambling dishonors what is sacred.
Percentage of Harm and Consequences for Christians
Statistical and experiential evidence shows that gambling causes:
- Addiction (30-50%) of frequent gamblers end up addicted.
- Financial Ruin (80%) lose more than they win.
- Family Conflict (60%) of gamblers report strained relationships.
- Spiritual Coldness (90%) of Christian gamblers compromise faith for fantasy.
“You cannot serve both God and mammon.” – Matthew 6:24
Scholarly Opinions on Gambling
- Dr. Billy Graham: “Gambling is a form of theft by consent.”
- Christian Research Institute: “Gambling degrades society, breeds crime, and preys on the poor.”
- John MacArthur: “Gambling denies God's sovereignty and providence.”
- Social Psychologists warn of the mental health impact—depression, anxiety, and suicide.
How Gambling and Betting Affect Economic Growth
Contrary to the illusion of economic contribution, gambling:
- Reduces Productivity: Workers who gamble are less focused.
- Increases Poverty: Poor communities are targeted, worsening wealth gaps.
- Strains Social Services: Increases demand on mental health, legal, and welfare systems.
- Encourages Criminality: Loan sharks, fraud, and theft increase with gambling trends.
- Misuses Capital: Funds are lost in speculative risk rather than in productive enterprise.
Advice to Youth Gambling with Money, Property, and Women
- Money: Don't mortgage your future on quick riches. Invest, save, and work. (Proverbs 6:6-11)
- Property: Trading assets for chance is foolishness. Build inheritance, not liabilities. (Proverbs 13:22)
- Women: Emotional gambling—flirting, using women for gains—leads to ruin (Proverbs 7).
“Flee youthful lusts... pursue righteousness.” – 2 Timothy 2:22
Betting as a Modern Form of Gambling
Sports betting and digital casinos have normalized gambling. Youth are hooked through apps and peer influence. However, Christians must discern the difference between fun and bondage. What begins as “small stake” becomes a chain to sin and self-destruction.
Conclusion: Kill the Goliath
Gambling is a modern-day Goliath—bold, boastful, and destructive. But like David, the Christian must rise with a stone of truth, a sling of faith, and the strength of the Lord to bring it down.
Reflection Prayer
“Lord, deliver me from the love of money, from the trap of gambling. Give me wisdom to be a faithful steward and the courage to slay every Goliath in my life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.”
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