SHEPHERD TO SHEEP
GAMBLING
(Mark 15:24) And when they crucified Him, they divided His garments, casting lots…
Gambling is a major problem today in our nation. The addiction not only wipes out bank accounts but also damages trusted relationships. It can destroy ones physical and emotional health and even one’s spiritual life. Compulsive gambling is a growing concern in every level of our society. It affects male and female, young and old, poor and rich. It’s like a drug. Once you allow yourself a little indulgence you’ll want more…and more…and more. And once you’re hooked you’re headed for ruin.
You might say God’s people are never tempted to gamble. Wrong! I once new an elder in a good evangelical church who fell prey to the clutches of gambling. In-between his place of employment and his home was the race track. He stopped in and enjoyed the thrill of betting on horses. The excitement grew and grew until he couldn’t turn away from it. Know what happened? His addiction led him to make frequent withdrawals from his savings account. This went on until he exhausted his hard-earned investment. Eventually his wife found out and now they had marriage problems. His wife couldn’t trust him anymore. He stepped down from his church position and entered counseling.
You know, the world doesn’t help much either. It used to be just going to Las Vegas. Now there are gambling casinos within reach as the states are liberalizing their laws. Then there is the Internet. I just got back from China and while I was there I visited Macau to see a missionary. Macau is by Hong Kong and is where most of Asia is traveling now to gamble. Macau has surged ahead of Las Vegas in total money gambled. The problem is everywhere.
Why do people gamble? Most say it boils down to a couple reasons. One is for the thrill of excitement and one is for the chill of escapism. And I believe that once a person comes to terms with the problem the answer is within reach. And that answer is Jesus! He’ll take away the numbness of your heart and give you the thrill of your life! (Psa 16:11) You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
You’ll be like Peter who took a risk by stepping out of the boat at the Lord’s command and walked on water! (Mat 14:24-33)
Life a little drab for you? Need some excitement? Then take a gamble and give your life to Jesus. You don’t have to wait until heaven. The adventure begins right now! Think of it…a personal relationship with the God of the universe through His Son Jesus Christ who was sent to be your Savior! That’s being a winner! (1 Pet 1:8) whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.
Louie
GAMBLING
(Mark 15:24) And when they crucified Him, they divided His garments, casting lots…
Gambling is a major problem today in our nation. The addiction not only wipes out bank accounts but also damages trusted relationships. It can destroy ones physical and emotional health and even one’s spiritual life. Compulsive gambling is a growing concern in every level of our society. It affects male and female, young and old, poor and rich. It’s like a drug. Once you allow yourself a little indulgence you’ll want more…and more…and more. And once you’re hooked you’re headed for ruin.
You might say God’s people are never tempted to gamble. Wrong! I once new an elder in a good evangelical church who fell prey to the clutches of gambling. In-between his place of employment and his home was the race track. He stopped in and enjoyed the thrill of betting on horses. The excitement grew and grew until he couldn’t turn away from it. Know what happened? His addiction led him to make frequent withdrawals from his savings account. This went on until he exhausted his hard-earned investment. Eventually his wife found out and now they had marriage problems. His wife couldn’t trust him anymore. He stepped down from his church position and entered counseling.
You know, the world doesn’t help much either. It used to be just going to Las Vegas. Now there are gambling casinos within reach as the states are liberalizing their laws. Then there is the Internet. I just got back from China and while I was there I visited Macau to see a missionary. Macau is by Hong Kong and is where most of Asia is traveling now to gamble. Macau has surged ahead of Las Vegas in total money gambled. The problem is everywhere.
Why do people gamble? Most say it boils down to a couple reasons. One is for the thrill of excitement and one is for the chill of escapism. And I believe that once a person comes to terms with the problem the answer is within reach. And that answer is Jesus! He’ll take away the numbness of your heart and give you the thrill of your life! (Psa 16:11) You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
You’ll be like Peter who took a risk by stepping out of the boat at the Lord’s command and walked on water! (Mat 14:24-33)
Life a little drab for you? Need some excitement? Then take a gamble and give your life to Jesus. You don’t have to wait until heaven. The adventure begins right now! Think of it…a personal relationship with the God of the universe through His Son Jesus Christ who was sent to be your Savior! That’s being a winner! (1 Pet 1:8) whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.
Louie
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