The Gambling Christian

In our society, gambling has become a multi-million dollar industry with many people sacrificing both their finances and families in the pursuit of "playing the percentages". Both professional and college sports has become a haven for addicts who risk their future on legalized betting. With this thought in mind, are we also gambling in our walk with Christ? Are we banking (betting) on the belief His return to earth will not happen today, tomorrow or in our physical lifetime?

In the Book of Revelation, John writes about the visions he received from Jesus while exiled on the island of Patmos. In the third chapter (2-6), he tells the church in Sardis to hold fast and repent. He warns them to keep watch for Jesus' return and to overcome the temptations of the world.

As you listen to Jesus' words, are you gambling on His return by holding your best cards? Fearful to give your best to Him everyday and in everyway. Or do you give Him your throwaway cards and hold on to your "valuable" ones (money, time, talent, worry, etc.? And why do we hold onto these things? Is it fear? Lack of faith? Or are we more concerned about the world instead of the Word?

Do we sit at the table watching to see what cards others' play before we act on our faith? How many of us pay more attention to what others are doing or saying instead of our own walk with Christ? Too many times, we place more importance on being more like others than being more like Him. Although we do not like to admit it, this is a form of idol worship and God detests it!

Or, are we ready to be all in for Christ? When we put all our chips (time, talent, faith, priority) on the table? If you are sitting at the table and you still are holding on tight to that one chip, whether it be worry, earthly possessions or unhealthy relationships) I encourage you to go all in on God...

Pastor Aaron