The action, and habit, of gambling (and prize seeking) is caused by one factor - lack of trust in God's existing abundance.

Whenever someone gambles he/she is praying "I am not satisfied with what God has already given me. Even though I know there are millions of people far worse off than I am, I want to take a bigger share of material possessions (to others' disadvantage) without working for it".

Seen in this light, one sees how despicably selfish, greedy and material is every action of gambling. This level of acknowledgement of the evilness of gambling will give such strong incentive to stop, the most powerful gambling addiction will be broken.

Be assured: Continuous realisation of the spiritual darkness of gambling, along with regular earnest prayer for God's help in correction, will end the practice. Wherever there is high spiritual desire, the power of God is invoked. With God on your side, anything is possible.

"Idle hands make mischief" is a deep spiritual truth. To aid the dropping of any addiction, it is essential that a substitute practice be adopted to replace the preoccupation of the mind focused wrongly. e.g. church activities, new hobbies, more selfless community service, or domestic chores, returning to the work-force, learning painting, singing or a musical instrument. Your will is the director of your actions. No-one else is (no matter how persuasive is the marketing). Thus a slip-up is your slip-up. But do not be disheartened by a "bust" as every slip-up is added incentive to stop the bad practice. Always live in the moment of your highest self-realisation then God will be walking with you, helping you whether you know it or not.

If we want to keep the blessings of life coming to us (God's abundance), we must be continually grateful for, and satisfied with, whatever we receive.

JF 2002

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS is a most worthwhile organisation which provides practical guidelines as well as a support group to assist your replacement of gambling with better practices.