Legalized Gambling in Hawaii: A Very Bad Bet
Hawaii is among only two (2) states in the nation where all forms of gambling remain illegal. (Utah is the other). Proponents of legalized gambling in Hawaii boast of its promise of economic revitalization and prosperity. While there is an element of truth to their claims, greater scrutiny reveals a far different story.
The widespread proliferation of gambling on the mainland has produced very troubling consequences for the people and communities most closely associated with it. Those consequences include: increased violent crime, property crime, and drug‐related crime; an increased influence of organized crime; increased addiction and family deterioration; a disproportionately adverse impact on youth and the poor; and, a net negative economic impact.
WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD CARE ABOUT LEGALIZED GAMBLING:
Christians may be opposed to gambling for several key reasons rooted in biblical principles and concerns for individual and community well-being. Here’s an overview of why many Christians view gambling as incompatible with their faith:
1. Stewardship of Resources
•Biblical Principle: Everything believers have is a gift from God, and they are called to be good stewards of their resources (1 Corinthians 4:2, Proverbs 3:9).
•Concern: Gambling encourages risking money for personal gain, often driven by greed, rather than using resources wisely to meet needs, support families, or help others.
2. Greed and Covetousness
•Biblical Principle: The Bible warns against greed and covetousness, which are seen as forms of idolatry (Colossians 3:5, 1 Timothy 6:10).
•Concern: Gambling can foster a desire for quick and unearned wealth, fueling unhealthy cravings and a love for money that can lead to destructive behavior.
3. Exploitation of the Vulnerable
•Biblical Principle: Scripture calls for justice and protecting the vulnerable (Proverbs 31:8-9, Isaiah 1:17).
•Concern: The gambling industry often profits at the expense of the poor and vulnerable, leading to addiction, financial ruin, and broken families. It disproportionately affects those who can least afford to lose.
4. Destruction of Families and Communities
•Biblical Principle: Christians are called to love their neighbors and promote the flourishing of others (Philippians 2:4, Galatians 6:2).
•Concern: Gambling addiction can destroy relationships, increase crime, lead to bankruptcy, and harm children and spouses, eroding the fabric of communities.
5. Promotion of Idleness
•Biblical Principle: Hard work and diligence are consistently praised in Scripture (Proverbs 12:11, 2 Thessalonians 3:10).
•Concern: Gambling promotes the idea of getting something for nothing, which undermines the biblical ethic of honest labor and trust in God’s provision.
6. Trust in God’s Provision
•Biblical Principle: Christians are called to trust in God’s provision and not rely on uncertain means for financial gain (Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:19).
•Concern: Gambling places hope in chance and luck rather than God’s faithful provision, leading people away from a life of faith and dependence on Him.
7. Impact on Witness and Integrity
•Biblical Principle: Christians are to live lives that reflect Christ and avoid behaviors that could lead others astray (Matthew 5:16, Romans 14:21).
•Concern: Participating in gambling could harm a believer’s witness, as it may be seen as endorsing a practice that damages individuals and society.
Conclusion
While the Bible doesn’t explicitly mention gambling, it provides clear principles that guide believers toward responsible stewardship, love for neighbor, and trust in God. From a biblical worldview, gambling is often seen as a practice that contradicts these values, contributing to social harm and personal spiritual struggle.
If you or your church are interested in hosting a faith-based forum to discuss the topic of gambling—and would like practical ideas for communicating biblical principles effectively or engaging with those who view gambling as harmless entertainment—we’re here to help!
Contact us today to schedule an educational workshop designed to equip and empower your congregation with the tools and insights needed to address this important issue from a biblical worldview.
Let’s work together to promote understanding, encourage wise stewardship, and protect the well-being of our families and communities.
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