Merann, we understand that you're seeking support for a significant venture, and you've asked for wishes of success in the name of Jesus. We can really understand just feeling the excitement of taking everything you have and pushing it all in. You might be longing for that rush of a win. However, The World English Bible says "Those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful lusts, such as drown men in ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some have been led astray from the faith in their greed, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But you, man of God, flee these things, and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness," (1Timothy 6:9-11).
This doesn't mean that seeking success or provision is wrong, but the heart and motives behind it matter greatly. We believe that God wants us to use and manage finances well. "A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who is eager to be rich will not go unpunished. To do less evil is of no profit, nor is it profitable to be not greatly deluded. The fear of Yahweh tends to life then one rests content, without visitation of harm. The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he will not so much as bring it to his mouth again," (Proverbs 28:20-22).
God His position on gambling. Here are a few reasons gambling might not be honoring to God:
1. **It relies on chance, not productive work**: God designed us to work and produce, not to rely on chance or luck. Even if it looks like an easy way to seem blessed, Godโs principles do not support this short-cut. "Let him who stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have something to give to him who has need," (Ephesians 4:28).
2. 2. **It can lead to addiction and financial ruin**: Gambling can be highly addictive and can lead to severe financial problems, impacting not only the individual but also their family and community. In the book of Proverbs, borrowing with excessive interest rates is frowned upon so we can only imagine it might be similar for risking it all to chance and actually losing. Not to mention the risk to others in our life that depend on us for protection and provision. "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender," (Proverbs 22:7).
3. 3. **It can foster greed and a love for money**: Gambling often encourages a desire to get rich quickly, which can fostering a love for money. The love for money with gambling could take priority over other important areas in life. "He who loves silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he who loves abundance, with increase: this also is vanity," (Ecclesiastes 5:10)
Instead of wishing for a big win, we encourage you to pray for God's provision, wisdom, and guidance in your life. Trust that God knows your needs and will provide for them according to His riches in glory. "Therefore don't be anxious, saying, 'What will we eat?', 'What will we drink?' or, 'With what will we be clothed?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you have need of all these things. But seek first God's Kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well," (Matthew 6:31-33).
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you lifting up Merann, asking for your guidance and provision in their life as they navigate this financial decision. Forgive them where they have looked for a chance rather than your will. Give them wisdom, self-control and Godly financial direction. Help them to trust in you and please answer their request of provision in your hands, according to your will and ultimately for your name's sake In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Testimony: Jesus