Gambling involves risking something of value on an activity that is primarily determined by chance in the hope of realizing a profit. It has existed in every society since prerecorded history and continues to be a part of many social activities, customs and rites of passage. It is a multibillion dollar industry.
Although the vast majority of people who participate in gambling do so for recreation, a small percentage become seriously involved and continue to gamble despite significant negative personal, social, family and financial effects. This category of individuals is referred to as problem gamblers.
In general, problem gamblers have: a high frequency of gambling episodes; lost control of money and/or time spent on gambling; unsuccessful attempts to stop gambling or to reduce the amount of time and/or money invested in gambling; distorted thinking about gambling (i.e., a false sense of entitlement to winnings or a faulty understanding of the odds of a game) and/or a distorted perception of the social costs associated with gambling. They may also be at increased risk of a variety of psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Gambling can occur in a variety of settings including pari-mutuel (horse or dog tracks, off-track betting parlors and jai alai), lotteries, casinos (including poker rooms and slot machines), card games, the stock market, and even the Internet. Regardless of the type of gambling, all involve a certain degree of risk and a degree of manipulation.
While there are many reasons why a person may gamble, the primary motives for people to gamble are: social, entertainment and financial. For many people, a gambling experience is fun and enjoyable, particularly when they are having a good time with friends or with family. For others, the enjoyment comes from a desire to win and to think about what they will do with the winnings. Others gamble to meet social and/or financial needs, such as paying for food or other necessities.
It is important for Christians to understand the nature of gambling, the effects it can have on their lives and the way it promotes an immoral and predatory industry. Christians are responsible to invest the resources entrusted to them soberly and wisely, and spending money on gambling is not an appropriate use of those assets.
When it comes to gambling, the most important thing is to have a plan and stick to it. It is helpful to discuss your plans with someone who will not judge you, such as a friend or professional counsellor. Limit your gambling time and do not gamble when you are depressed or upset. Make a rule to never gamble on credit and avoid carrying large amounts of cash around with you. Try to balance your gambling with other enjoyable activities. Do not chase your losses – the more you try to win back the money you have lost, the bigger your losses will be. Remember that gambling is not a reliable source of income and should be seen as a form of entertainment only.