008: Taking Our Chances With a Lottery Episode or Should Christians Play the Lottery?

"Is it OK to play the lottery?"

"Can Christians play the lottery?"

"Is playing the lottery a sin?"

These are common questions when considering buying one of those tickets or "Scratchers."

Sometimes entertaining the thought of just how much good you can do with the winnings: build churches, feed the poor, send missionaries—almost justifies the act.

What does Scripture say? While we do not find the words "Lottery" or "Scratchers" in the Bible; let's consider the principles that apply in an effort to guide us in this matter.

In This Episode We Look At:

The desire that drives one to play the lottery. Often the lottery is looked at as a potential way out of financial woes; indicating someone is discontent with their current finances. Jesus warns of  covetousness in Luke 12:15, "Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."

It is diligent and wise labor that brings financial profit. Proverbs 14:23 "In all labor there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury."  Proverbs 13:11 "Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase."

The warnings of wealth. They that desire to 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." 1 Timothy 6:9-10

Today's Resources and Links:

Lotto winner wishes he had torn up ticket

A treasury of terribly sad stories of lottery winners

One Thing You Can Do Today to Improve Your Financial World:

When you hear the news of a pending, enormous jackpot payout; decide to "set your affections on the things above, not on things on the earth." Rehearse in your mind and heart all the things you are thankful for.

What Are Your Thoughts?

If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts.