Thought for the Day

Honest work will always be rewarded, while those who scheme to get wealth will not go unpunished. Gambling is one of the oldest addictions in the world. Like alcoholism and drug addiction, compulsive gambling drains national and personal economies. Families are the ones who suffer the most. Many people feel gambling is an enjoyable pastime, and even some Christians support lotteries, horse racing and casinos. Video poker has become so popular it is referred to as "the crack cocaine" of gambling. However, Scripture is clear that it is a snare that can lead to poverty. It is the ultimate get-rich-quick scheme, and Christians should pay attention to the Biblical instruction regarding it.

Anyone attempting to gain money at someone else's certain loss is definitely not practicing Christian principles. A casino preys on the weakness of people. Gambling is contrary to the principles of working, saving and giving. Gamblers ignore discipline and accountability for their spending. To many, gambling is a scheme to escape work. Some do not realize the gravity of their sin, justifying it because their present income does not meet their needs. God desires these persons to look to Him to meet their needs. He will give a plan for becoming debt-free, if they seek Him and search out His economic principles in the Bible. The Lord can bring deliverance to those caught in the web of compulsive gambling. He will break the bondage of all who call upon Him.

Doing an honest day's work is the way to earn a living. Faithfulness to a job brings its own reward. God's blessing upon honest labor goes beyond any paycheck. No man can buy peace of mind, health, protection, or joy in the Holy Spirit.

"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 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. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness" (1 Timothy 6:6-11).