YOU BET’CHA

“The American sports betting industry posted a record $13.71 billion in 2024 revenue, up from 2023’s record of $11.04 billion, according to the American Gaming Association’s annual report issued Wednesday (February 2024). The AGA, during its state of the industry call, said legal sportsbooks took nearly $150 billion worth of bets, a 22.2% increase from 2023. Sportsbooks won at a 9.3% rate nationally, a slight increase from 2023’s 9.1% hold percentage.”

With nearly ‘$150 billion worth of bets’ in 2024, I’m thinking our economy is doing really well after all. If we have this much ‘side money’ to put into good solid investments like sports betting, it is obvious that we have excess for spending.

It is lust for unearned money. ‘What are the behavioral triggers of gambling? Seeing gambling as a way to ‘make money’. Being totally absorbed in the activity, continually trying to beat the system. Creating arguments, rows and using rude behavior in anger over their losses. Constant, repetitive and competitive discussion about money losses and blaming others for it.’ (Mental Health Guidelines)

I notice that the word ‘gambling’ is used less and less, and ‘gaming’ is used more and more. It just makes it all sound better to the public. It still clearly qualifies for what John, an apostle, wrote, “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16). It has taken on new levels of destruction in our culture. You bet’cha it has.

Disciples of Jesus would be wise to stay away from this thorny pit.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Jesus