What Is Gambling?

Gambling is an activity where one wagers something of value, usually money, on the outcome of a random event. In a broad sense, stock markets may be considered a form of gambling as well, although skill and knowledge play a significant role. The Bible teaches that it is wrong to place reliance on luck and superstition. It is God who provides our needs (Matthew 6:30-34; 1 Timothy 6:8-10).

In addition to monetary risk, gambling has psychological and social consequences. It can erode self-esteem and social connections. It can also trigger depression and other mental health problems. In severe cases, gambling addiction can result in suicide. It is important to recognize the symptoms of gambling disorder and seek help.

Research evidence about gambling behavior and pathological gambling is extensive and growing. However, a lack of consistent nomenclature hinders comparisons and interpretations. Moreover, research scientists, psychiatrists, other treatment care clinicians and public policy makers frame questions about gambling differently depending on their disciplinary training, experience, and world view.

Problem gamblers often report a variety of behavioral and psychological symptoms, including poor judgement, cognitive distortions, depression and anxiety, impulsiveness, impaired social functioning, and moral turpitude. They have the highest suicide risk of any group in society. They also have the greatest number of financial difficulties – bills aren’t paid, credit cards are maxed out, and debts are accumulated through pay day loans or high interest rates. Those with gambling addictions often find themselves stealing from family, friends or employers to finance their habit.

The high of anticipating a ‘big win’ and the devastation of losing are both intense emotions that can be very hard to deal with. In addition, gambling addiction can cause feelings of denial and shame, which can make it difficult to ask for help or even admit the problem.

Whether you have an interest in horse racing, bingo or the lottery, gambling can be addictive because of its ability to elicit a neurochemical response in the brain that makes you feel good. This can lead to a cycle of highs and lows where you keep going back in the hope of winning more, but it only leads to greater loss. Ultimately, it destroys relationships and creates financial hardship. It is a form of escapism, and it denies the biblical work ethic that links honest labour with reward. It engenders covetousness and greed, which are idolatry according to the Apostle Paul. It also promotes laziness and encourages the fantasy that you can get something for nothing – a skewed view of the gospel that says, “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). This can only be corrected by repentance.