Rccg Lower Junior Zeal 16-19 For March 15, 2026,: Lesson 28: Title - Gambling

RCCG Lower Junior Zeal (2025/2026)

Age Group: 16–19 – Teacher’s Manual

📅 Sunday, 15th March, 2026

📖 Lesson 28

Topic: Gambling

Bible Text

Proverbs 13:11

1 Timothy 6:6–10

1 Corinthians 6:12

Proverbs 13:11

"Wealth gained by dishonesty will diminish, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it."

1 Timothy 6:6–10

This passage teaches that true gain comes through godliness and contentment. It reminds us that we brought nothing into this world and cannot take anything out of it. Those who are desperate to become rich often fall into temptation, harmful desires, and destruction. The love of money is the root of many evils, and it has caused some people to wander away from the faith.

1 Corinthians 6:12

"All things are lawful for me, but not all things are beneficial… I will not be brought under the power of any."

Memory Verse

"Wealth gained by vanity will diminish, but whoever gathers by labour will increase it."

— Proverbs 13:11

Lesson Aim

To expose teenagers to the dangers of gambling and teach them why they should avoid it.

Introduction

Gambling is a practice that promotes dependence on luck instead of trust in God. It encourages people to pursue quick money rather than practicing good stewardship and hard work.

It can also lead to financial problems, addiction, and spiritual damage because it diverts resources from important responsibilities and from serving God. The Bible teaches believers to trust in God’s provision rather than relying on chance or luck.

A gambler places hope in the outcome of a game or event, often risking money or resources, which can negatively affect both financial stability and spiritual growth.

A. What Is Gambling?

Gambling is the act of risking money or resources on an uncertain event with the hope of gaining a financial reward.

It is one of the oldest ways people attempt to gain wealth through vanity rather than hard work.

It often involves dishonest practices, tricks, or exploitation, and the wealth obtained through it is usually short-lived.

As the saying goes, when the purpose of something is not understood, abuse becomes inevitable. The same applies to money gained through gambling.

Key Elements of Gambling

For an activity to be considered gambling, it usually involves three elements:

a. Consideration

This refers to the money or resource that a person stakes or risks in the hope of gaining more.

b. Risk (Chance)

The outcome is uncertain and depends on luck rather than skill or effort.

c. Prize (Reward)

There is the possibility of winning a reward or losing what was risked.

B. Forms of Gambling

Lottery

A game of chance often organized by governments where people buy tickets for a chance to win money.

Lotto

A type of gambling where numbers are drawn randomly and players win if their numbers match the drawn numbers.

Betting

This involves staking money on the outcome of an unpredictable event such as sports matches, races, or games. Examples include sports betting, football pools, and casino games.

Electronic Gaming Machines

Electronic devices used for gambling on simulated events generated by random number systems, such as slot machines and poker machines.

C. What the Bible Teaches About Gambling

Trust God, Not Luck

Believers should rely on God’s guidance and provision rather than games of chance.

(Proverbs 3:5–6)

Greed Is Dangerous

The love of money leads many people into sin and destruction.

(1 Timothy 6:10)

God Provides for Our Needs

When we trust God to meet our needs, we are less tempted to pursue risky shortcuts to wealth.

(Philippians 4:19)

Be Good Stewards

God expects us to manage money wisely. Gambling wastes resources that could be used responsibly.

(Luke 16:10–11)

Avoid Addiction

Even small bets can develop into harmful habits. God wants His people to live free from anything that controls them.

(1 Corinthians 6:12)

Consequences of Gambling and Why It Should Be Avoided

Distraction

Gambling can become a major distraction and affect a person’s daily life, mood, and productivity.

Addiction

Like substance abuse, gambling can become addictive due to the desire to make quick money.

Financial Problems

Repeated losses may lead people to spend their savings or accumulate debts.

Relationship Conflicts

Gambling can damage relationships with God, family members, and friends.

Emotional and Psychological Stress

It often leads to anxiety, unhappiness, restlessness, and loss of focus on productive activities.

Mental Health Issues

Continuous losses can cause frustration, depression, and serious emotional distress.

Dependence on Luck Instead of God

Gambling encourages people to rely on luck and personal ability rather than trusting God’s guidance.

(Proverbs 14:12)

Conclusion

Gambling has become increasingly common in today’s society through lotteries, betting platforms, casinos, and online games. However, believers must remain cautious and avoid anything that appears evil or harmful.

Christians should choose honesty, hard work, and trust in God rather than relying on gambling for financial gain.

(1 Thessalonians 5:22)

Life Application – Practical Steps

Avoid betting games at school, online, or with friends—even those that seem harmless.

Manage money wisely by saving, giving, and spending responsibly.

Speak with a trusted adult, mentor, parent, or pastor if you feel tempted or curious about gambling.

Replace gambling temptations with healthy activities such as volunteering, studying, reading, or earning money honestly.

Reflection Questions

Why do you think many people are attracted to gambling?

How does gambling show a lack of trust in God?

What habits can help young people avoid gambling or other risky behaviors?

How can you support friends who may be struggling with gambling?

Daily Devotional

Sunday: Colossians 4:1–10

Monday: Colossians 4:11–18

Tuesday: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10

Wednesday: 1 Thessalonians 2:1–10

Thursday: 1 Thessalonians 2:11–20

Friday: 1 Thessalonians 3:1–10

Saturday: 1 Thessalonians 3:11–13