Playing Powerball is popular in America. The jackpots grow these days to outrageous dollar amounts. Most people hope to win it. There was one such winner last night from California. They won $1.73 Billion. That’s, of course, if they take the annuity option, and yes, they have to pay federal and state taxes first. Otherwise, they can take a one-time lump sum, which would pay out much less but still more than most Americans can earn in their lifetime.
When the lottery topic came up in my old workplace, one man often reminded us, saying, “Playing the lottery is the cheapest dream in town!” He was right. And I have to admit I have played before and have joined those who dreamed of how they would spend it. I would first get out of all my dept. Then, I would give an offering to my local church and help some family members if needed. From there, I would carefully seek the Lord on what to do with it. (NOTE: I said “offering” to the church instead of a “tithe” because I would not have labored for the money. In other words, playing the lottery isn’t my job.)
Some people play because they are desperate to change their current life. Whether they are deep in debt for several reasons, need a life-saving surgery, or any otherwise impossible situation. They hoped their financial woes would end overnight. Others might play to make a large purchase of something they want but don’t need.
I have heard when someone wins a large sum of cash, they trade one set of problems for another. Like out of the blue, they have millions of friends and issues with family members who don’t get enough of the money to suit them. I heard from a trusted source that one wealthy and famous ex-TV host gets hundreds of requests daily for financial help.
“According to Ohman, most lottery winners spend all their winnings and end up in a worse financial position than before they won.”
That is sad to learn about most lottery winners. So what is one to do? For those who believe in God, it is better to put your trust in the Lord. He knows what you have need of and will provide it.
31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Mat. 6:31-33 (NIV)
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Prov. 3:5 (NIV)
Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
Ps. 55:17 (NIV)
9 Honor the Lord with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.
Prov. 3:9-10 (NIV)
Copyright © 2023 Mark Brady.
Republished with permission from Blogs.crossmap.com, featuring inspiring Bible verses about The Cheapest Dream in Town.
