Turn to God and commit your problems to Jesus

I used to think gambling was just harmless entertainment, but now I’m hooked. I’ve even taken out a second mortgage on our house to pay my gambling debts. What’s wrong with me?

Q: A: — T.J.

Becoming addicted to gambling is like becoming addicted to anything else, including drugs or alcohol. Eventually it takes over a person’s life and destroys them — something people who favor legalized gambling are seldom willing to face.

How can you conquer this? You have already taken the first step by admitting you have a problem with gambling. Now take the next steps by admitting you cannot conquer this on your own, and then seeking the help you need to overcome it. I urge you to talk honestly with your pastor or other professional who can suggest resources in your community to help you. It won’t be easy — but others have walked this road before you, and you can learn from their experience.

In addition, turn to God and commit this problem — and your whole life — to Jesus Christ. God loves you, and he doesn’t want you to destroy your life. Not only will Christ give you a new desire to do what’s right, but He’ll help you overcome the greed and the yearning for excitement that are behind most gambling. One of the Ten Commandments says, “You shall not covet ... anything that belongs to your neighbor” (Exodus 20:17).