Faith And Finances

"Is it OK to play the lottery?" "Can Christians play the lottery?" "Is playing the lottery a sin?" These are common questions when considering buying one of those tickets or "Scratchers." Sometimes entertaining the thought of just how much good you can do with the winnings: build churches, feed the poor, send missionaries—almost justifies the act. What does Scripture say? While we do not find the words "Lottery" or "Scratchers" in the Bible; let's consider the principles that apply in an effort to guide us in this matter. In This Episode We Look At: The desire that drives one to play the lottery. Often the lottery is looked at as a potential way out of financial woes; indicating someone is discontent with their current finances. Jesus warns of  covetousness in Luke 12:15, "Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth." It is diligent and wise labor that brings financial profit. Proverbs 14:23 "In all labor there is profit: but the ta