Gambling involves placing something of value (usually money) on an event with a degree of uncertainty. This event may be the outcome of a game, a lottery drawing or the roll of a dice. The primary appeal of gambling is the chance to win a prize. In a more broad sense, it also involves betting on an uncertain future event such as a sporting competition or a race, or predicting the results of such an event.
While gambling can be a enjoyable pastime for many people, there are some who have a problem with it. In some cases, the problem can become so severe that it interferes with their daily functioning and causes them serious problems. Fortunately, there are ways to help someone with a gambling addiction, and the first step is to recognize the signs of an issue.
A person who is exhibiting the symptoms of gambling disorder often experiences:
(1) a history of losing control over their gambling; (2) lying to family members or therapists to conceal the extent of their problem; (3) making excuses to take extended breaks from work or miss days of work due to their gambling activities; (4) engaging in illegal acts such as forgery, theft or fraud to finance gambling; and/or (5) experiencing emotional distress when not gambling (American Psychiatric Association 2000).
The Bible condemns all forms of gambling. There is a clear commandment not to gamble and there are several Bible verses that teach the dangers of gambling. It is especially dangerous for those who are strained financially, as it can be difficult to distinguish between good and bad choices. The Bible instructs us to seek first God’s kingdom and to trust in him for all our needs, because he is our provider.
Despite the biblical warnings against gambling, some Christians still engage in it. In particular, there are a number of churches that prohibit gambling, including Jehovah’s Witnesses, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Members Church of God International. Some of these churches believe that gambling is a sinful activity because it leads to greed and selfishness.
Other religious groups also have a stance on gambling, with some banning it altogether and others advocating for responsible gaming. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints supports the Responsible Gambling Council, which works to create safer gambling standards and promotes awareness of the risk of gambling. The RGC was created in response to the growing concern over gambling and its impact on society. Its goal is to influence positive change and advance responsible gambling standards in Canada and around the world. The RGC has a strong commitment to the development of research and training in responsible gambling. The RGC’s programs are supported by grants from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The RGC was established in 1997 and is a not-for-profit organization. RGC’s Board of Directors is comprised of representatives from religious, business and community organizations.