In today’s world, gambling has become a multibillion-dollar industry—from casinos and sports betting to online poker and lottery tickets. But what does the Bible say about gambling?
While the Bible does not directly use the word “gambling,” it provides clear spiritual principles that guide believers in making wise, god-honoring decisions about money, stewardship, and temptation.
Is Gambling Mentioned in the Bible?
The Bible does not explicitly prohibit gambling. There is no verse that says, “Thou shalt not gamble.” However, several biblical principles offer strong guidance on why gambling can be spiritually harmful. These principles relate to:
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Love of money
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Greed
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Lack of self-control
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Exploitation of others
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Stewardship
So while gambling may not be directly condemned, the motives and consequences behind it often contradict God’s instructions for righteous living.
Bible Verses That Speak to the Heart of Gambling
1. 1 Timothy 6:9-10
“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap… For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”
This verse highlights the desire to get rich quickly, which is the very heart of gambling. Such desire often leads to destructive behavior and spiritual ruin.
2. Proverbs 13:11
“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”
This verse promotes wise and diligent work over get-rich-quick schemes. Gambling offers the illusion of instant wealth, which often fades quickly.
3. Ecclesiastes 5:10
“Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income.”
Gambling feeds into the endless craving for more, which the Bible warns against.
4. Proverbs 28:22
“The stingy are eager to get rich and are unaware that poverty awaits them.”
The idea of chasing wealth without working for it often results in financial and spiritual poverty.
For more insight, see these powerful scriptures that talks about gambling.
Biblical Principles That Condemn Gambling
1. Gambling Encourages Greed
At the core of most gambling is the desire to acquire wealth without effort. The Bible consistently warns against greed.
“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed…” – Luke 12:15
2. Gambling Undermines Stewardship
God calls us to be wise stewards of the money and resources He provides.
“So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” – Romans 14:12
Money spent gambling is rarely used to glorify God or serve others. Instead, it’s often wasted.
3. Gambling Can Lead to Addiction and Destruction
Many people become enslaved to the false hope of winning big. Gambling can become an idol that consumes time, energy, and resources.
“You cannot serve both God and money.” – Matthew 6:24
4. Gambling Exploits Others
Gambling systems—especially casinos and lotteries—often exploit the poor and vulnerable. Many people gamble out of desperation, not entertainment.
“Woe to those who make unjust laws… to deprive the poor of their rights.” – Isaiah 10:1-2
Did People Gamble in the Bible?
Some argue that casting lots in the Bible (e.g., in Joshua 18:10 or Acts 1:26) is a form of gambling. However, this was a method of decision-making, not a money-based game of chance.
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Casting lots was used to discern God’s will, not to gain personal profit.
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It was done prayerfully and reverently, often involving sacred matters.
So, while the act of casting lots involved chance, it was not equivalent to modern gambling.
What About Playing the Lottery?
Many people buy lottery tickets with the hope of winning a fortune. While not inherently sinful, buying a ticket out of greed or desperation falls under the same dangers of gambling:
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Encourages false hope rather than faith in God
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Often exploits the poor
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Discourages wise financial management
It’s important to examine the motive and heart posture before engaging in such practices.
If you’ve bought a lottery ticket, say these 30 powerful prayers to win a lottery.
The Heart of the Matter: Trusting in God vs. Chance
Ultimately, gambling reveals where we place our trust:
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Do we trust in God’s provision and timing?
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Or do we look to chance, luck, or fortune?
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33
Faith calls us to depend on God—not the odds.
How Should Christians View Gambling?
While gambling isn’t directly outlawed in Scripture, Christians are called to live differently:
1. Live a Life of Contentment
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” – Hebrews 13:5
2. Use Money to Serve, Not to Risk
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…” – 1 Peter 4:10
3. Avoid the Appearance of Evil
“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:22 (KJV)
If your gambling can cause someone to stumble or question your faith, it’s better to avoid it.
What If You Struggle with Gambling?
If you’re battling a gambling addiction, know this: there is hope in Christ.
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Confess your struggle (1 John 1:9)
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Seek accountability from a pastor or mature believer
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Avoid temptation by setting boundaries
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Renew your mind with God’s Word (Romans 12:2)
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Trust in God’s provision
There are also Christian-based recovery programs that can walk alongside you in freedom.
If you’re addicted to gambling, say these 30 powerful prayers against gambling addiction.
What the Bible Teaches About Gambling
The Bible may not use the word “gambling,” but its message is clear:
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Avoid the love of money.
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Be faithful stewards.
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Trust in God—not luck or chance.
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Flee from anything that can become an idol.
While buying a lottery ticket or visiting a casino may not be a sin in itself, believers should examine their motives, impact on others, and alignment with biblical values.
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
If gambling does not glorify God, it’s best to walk away.
