Biblical Principles on Gambling

Jesus commands us to “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Gambling thrives on loss—one person’s gain comes at the expense of another’s suffering. Families affected by gambling addiction face devastating consequences, including divorce, bankruptcy, child abuse, domestic violence, crime, and even suicide. The Bible calls us to care for others, not contribute to their downfall (Matthew 7:12; Luke 6:31, 10:25-37; Romans 12:10; Philippians 2:3-4; Hebrews 13:1-2).

Gambling preys upon the financially desperate. Studies show that low-income individuals spend disproportionately on lottery tickets, often in hopes of escaping poverty. This contradicts God’s command to protect and uplift the poor, rather than exploiting their hardships (Proverbs 14:21, 14:31, 22:16; Isaiah 3:14-15; Amos 5:11-12; Zechariah 7:10).

From the beginning, God designed work as a means of provision (Genesis 2:15; Exodus 20:9). The Bible repeatedly emphasizes earning an honest living and providing for one’s family (Proverbs 31; 2 Thessalonians 3:10; 1 Timothy 5:8). Gambling contradicts this principle by promoting the idea of getting something for nothing. Instead, Christians are called to work diligently and share their resources with others (Ephesians 4:28; Proverbs 12:11, 13:4, 20:4, 21:25, 28:19).

The desire to "get rich quick" is a dangerous temptation. Paul warns in 1 Timothy 6:9-10:
"People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil."

The Bible also condemns covetousness, which gambling encourages (Exodus 20:17; Proverbs 15:27, 28:20; Matthew 6:31; Luke 12:15; Ephesians 5:3; Colossians 3:5; Hebrews 13:5).

Christians are entrusted to use their resources wisely. The parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) illustrates the importance of responsible financial management. Gambling is not just a poor investment—it often redirects money from necessities or charitable causes toward a system designed for loss. The Bible calls us to be good stewards of what God provides (Genesis 1:26; Romans 14:12; 1 Corinthians 4:2; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Colossians 3:17).

Gambling enterprises often operate through deceit—manipulating odds, designing environments that encourage addiction, and enticing participants with false hope. Scripture warns against deceitful practices (Psalm 5:6, 26:4, 55:23, 101:7; Proverbs 14:8, 12:20, 24:28; Romans 1:29).

Casinos and gambling environments frequently foster additional vices such as prostitution, substance abuse, and crime. The Bible warns that “bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33) and urges believers to flee temptation (1 Corinthians 6:18; 2 Timothy 2:22; 1 Thessalonians 5:22).

God’s design for government is to promote justice and protect citizens (Romans 13:1-5). Legalized gambling does the opposite—it exploits the vulnerable and fosters addiction rather than discouraging vice.

Ultimately, gambling undermines faith in God’s provision. Scripture calls us to rely on the Lord and be content with His blessings rather than seeking wealth through chance (Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 4:11-12, 4:19; 1 Timothy 6:6; Hebrews 13:5).