Gambling involves placing something of value, usually money, on an event with an element of chance. It can involve lotteries, cards, fruit machines, scratchcards and even bets with friends and family. It is a worldwide activity, with estimated annual turnovers of more than $10 trillion (illegal gambling may be much higher).

Gambling is an addiction that affects people from all walks of life and backgrounds. It can have serious social, family and work consequences. Those with problem gambling often experience a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. They can also experience a variety of negative psychological effects. Problem gambling is a recognised mental health condition and can be treated with professional help.

The vast majority of people gamble without any problems, but some find it hard to stop and develop an escalating pattern of gambling which can have significant and damaging personal, financial, work and family relationships. There are a number of factors that can contribute to this including an early big win, boredom susceptibility, poor understanding of random events, use of escape coping and stressors in their lives.

Mainstream Christian belief has always regarded gambling as an unwholesome pursuit. It promotes a false view of God’s sovereignty, glorifies luck and superstition and devalues true stewardship. The Bible teaches that we should work to earn our living and not seek something for nothing (Ephesians 4:14) and that the love of money is a root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10). Gambling directly appeals to covetousness and greed, which the Apostle Paul warns against as idolatry (1 Corinthians 6:10). It enthrones one’s own desires in place of God, breaching the 1st, 2nd and 10th commandments.

Some people gamble as a form of entertainment and for relaxation, but it can become a serious addictive behaviour and leads to a number of different problems. These include: a lack of self-control, an inability to stop gambling, lying about the extent of their involvement with gambling, using illegal means to fund gambling and causing damage or loss to others. In addition, gambling can cause emotional and psychological distress such as feelings of guilt, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. Some gamblers also struggle with drug or alcohol use. It is important to recognise and address the underlying causes of problem gambling as soon as possible.