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Some time back while traveling through Las Vegas, I went to a casino to observe the proceedings. I had thought about even venturing to play a little, but I never felt that I had the liberty of conscience to play. I was somewhat amused at myself as I left, wondering if my feelings were the result of being tight and hating to lose hard earned money or whether my feelings were pressed by the leading of the Spirit.
I generally have a negative view of gambling, although I certainly wouldn't get excited about betting an ice cream cone over a foot race. To what extent gambling violates biblical principles I am not exactly sure. I think all would agree that it is certainly possible to sin at gambling so it is prudent for us to consider where the line must be drawn.
I have a couple questions that I have concerning gambling. The first would involve the means through which we obtain increase. There would appear to be a principle throughout Scriptures that we should work with our own hands so as to receive a living. Is it proper to desire to obtain monetary gain when we are not intrinsically producing something of worth to obtain it?
The gambling industry is supported by someone's loss. If there were no losers, there would be no winners. Considering the fact that we are to love our neighbor as ourself, is it proper to desire to receive winnings at the expenses of another's loss, even if that someone has voluntarily contributed his substance to the equation?
In regard to voting for such measures, I would always vote against it. Illinois is always trying to see money brought into the state by virtue of river boat casinos. It's ironic to me that when we are unable to expand revenue by way of bona fide progress by the expansion and addition of business that we always resort to gaming. The addition of casinos to the landscape certainly changes the fabric of the local community and once the casino is added to the fabric of the local community, can we really swell with pride with the the thought that true economical progress has been achieved?
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