Work lotteries

[Gwen'sMom]

Even thought I'm not a Soldier yet, I am getting in practice to live my life as one. The people in my office have a lottery going all the time and sometimes they have extra ones when the jackpot is really huge. Sometimes they ask me why I don't participate. I usually make up an excuse like I forgot or I didn't have any cash on me. I don't participate in any lotteries outside of work either. How should I respond to questions on why I'm not joining in? The reasons are clear to me. Our money shouldn't be gambled with because I appreciate what little I have and God has given me the opportunity to work and spend my money responsibly. Has anyone else been through this?

 

[BoazB]

I used to be a teacher and quite often, for school funds they would have a lucky draw of sorts. You would choose a number. There would be a question, and if you got the question right, you would be eligible for the draw.

Because their purpose in having it was to raise funds, I would give a donation - the kids would insist that I fill in an anwswer. So I would give an obviously incorrect answer, like ...

What drink do you get from cows?... (my answer) Coffee!

They would say, "But sir,... that's wrong."

With a big grin and a wink I would say, "I know"

Actual reason for not taking part with any intent to win:
It is a game of chance, and if the Lord wants to bless me, He doesn't need me to buy the ticket. (it can also start an addiction, or tempt others into addiction.)

(Since being in ministry I have met gambling addicts)

Scripture reference (with humour): Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the Name of the Lord our God. Psalm 20v7

 

[Abiel]

I'd just say 'no thanks' and if pressed 'I don't do the lottery' and if pressed ' I don't gamble/it's a waste of money' and so forth. Doesn't need to be a big deal really.

But then I have a mother and a ds doing lotteries- so I get a stake in their cash I suppose! Who am I to preach?!?

 

[Evangelina]

I figure that if someone asks me why I don't do something, I have every right to answer them honestly (although not necessarily at length!). So if someone asks why I don't participate in work lotteries etc, I tell them MY reasons... that it can become an addiction, and that as a member of the Salvation Army I avoid behaviour that can be seen as hypocritical if I'm trying to help someone OUT of a gambling addiction. Such answers have led to some interesting conversations about christianity

 

[Gwen'sMom]

Thanks for the help everyone. It comes down to the same problem I have always had. I worry too much about what other people will think about me. This needs to stop now. I have been asked to go to the casino and bingo with friends and I always refuse to go and I even let them know why, so the lottery should just be the same!! My husband plays the lottery occasionally and if he ever wins I can't help if some of the winnings come my way as I know he will be getting one of those huge TV's! Is this what you call unequally yoked??

 

[Evangelina]

Yeah, I accepted a while ago that people will often just think i'm nuts. But Peter had a point when he told early christians to always be ready with answers to questions about their faith. A well thought out, sensible and polite answer will often get more respect - even if a person completely disagrees - than just going along with the crowd.

I think God wanted to make sure I didn't have a choice but to do this at work - I found myself in charge of the Social Club and suddenly having to deal with things like buying alcohol being part of my standard duties... (no, I don't buy the stuff, and don't drink it either... but I do say that others can go and buy supplies on the social club account for everyone)