Gambling is a popular yet contentious activity, often scrutinized through spiritual and moral lenses. Though the Bible doesn’t explicitly mention gambling, various scriptures offer guidance. Here’s what the Bible implies about gambling:
- Greed and Covetousness: Verses like 1 Timothy 6:10 warn that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil”. Gambling often stems from greed, which corrupts.
- Stewardship: Matthew 25:14-30 highlights the importance of wise stewardship of God-given resources rather than risking them frivolously.
- Work Ethic: Proverbs 13:11 states, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle,” suggesting that hard work, not quick gains, is the righteous path.
- Impact on Others: Romans 14:21 advises against actions that could cause others to stumble, including gambling’s potential addictive nature.
Overall, while not directly addressed, gambling conflicts with biblical principles like integrity, stewardship, and love for others.