The act of gambling involves risking something of value on an event that has a chance of occurring. This includes sports betting, casino games, lotteries and more. Gambling also involves the decision to invest a fixed amount of money with the hope of earning more than what is spent. The Bible warns against gambling and warns us not to participate in it (1 Corinthians 6:7). While the pro-gambling movement has made millionaires and has provided fantasy, moments of glory and even financial security for some, it is a destructive addiction that has caused bankruptcy, broken homes and even death for many others. It is an immoral industry that exploits the poor and vulnerable, encouraging people to invest their own money in a vice that has always yielded a negative return (Romans 13:1-5). It also violates the God-ordained purpose of government, as it promotes, condones and profits from a vice that the Bible instructs us to suppress.
In addition to the obvious financial problems associated with this addictive activity, it affects a person’s relationships and quality of life. Those with gambling addictions often hide their gambling behavior from friends and family members, fearing that they will be judged or exposed. They may also lie to family, co-workers and friends about how much they gamble or try to justify their behavior by citing a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons include the desire to win back losses, a feeling of excitement from winning, a need to relieve boredom or stress, and the use of gambling as an escape from unpleasant experiences or circumstances.
One of the biggest factors in developing a gambling problem is an early big win or high winning streak. This triggers a dopamine response in the brain that causes a person to continue gambling and seek more frequent and larger wins. As this pattern continues, the losses accumulate and the gambler becomes increasingly ensnared in a cycle of gambling addiction.
Other risk factors for gambling addiction include: a genetic predisposition, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, an impaired understanding of random events, use of gambling as escape coping and depression. The underlying mood disorders can both cause and be exacerbated by gambling addiction, so it is important to address the underlying issue and seek professional help.
It is possible to overcome a gambling addiction by seeking treatment for the underlying mood disorder, including therapy and medication. For those who are suffering from this problem, it is a good idea to start by finding local resources that offer effective treatments and check into options for counseling. These can include marriage, career and credit counseling to help the individual work through the issues that have contributed to their gambling addiction, as well as family therapy. This can provide a foundation to repair the individual’s relationships and finances. In addition, it is important to seek spiritual and moral guidance. This will not only help them overcome their addiction, but it can also lead to a deeper walk with Jesus Christ.