The Bible does not specifically condemn games of chance, gambling, betting, or the lottery. The Bible does warn us, however, against the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10; Hebrews 13:5). Wisdom avoids short cuts to prosperity: “Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time” (Proverbs 13:11, NLT). We are to work hard and earn a living (2 Thessalonians 3:10; Proverbs 14:23). Most gambling is motivated by a love of money. People place bets with the hope of quick and easy riches. Materialism is at the root of gambling.