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Gambling is a Fool’s Game

January 10, 2023

Devotions/Partners

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Proverbs 13:11 (KJV): “Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.”

COMMENTARY: Here in Connecticut, legalized gambling began in the 1970s when the legislature authorized the Lottery. Then came Jai Alai, dog and horse track racing. Then came two of the world’s foremost gambling casinos. Then came sports betting and online gambling. In a state with so much talent and heritage in manufacturing, healthcare, financial services and other industries, we have embraced, of all things, gambling. By example, we have also contributed greatly to the proliferation of gambling in adjacent states.

Over the years, gambling interests have tried to hire my business seven times, and seven times I’ve politely and firmly said no. I do not believe that gambling (they make it more appealing by taking the “b” out and calling it gaming) is a noble, honorable and honest way to make a living. I would not prostitute myself by helping gambling interests.

Like David and Goliath, in the 1990s there was a major proposal to build a casino in downtown Hartford. I was one of the few who fought it. In fact, the Lord used my small business to help to influence the power brokers in Hartford to pass it up and say no.

Where have the churches been on this issue? In general, silent and invisible. Very few pastors warn their flocks not to gamble from the pulpit. In the meantime, citizens (including church members) are gambling their hard-earned money away, spending taxpayer public assistance money intended to be a safety net, getting deep in debt, losing their homes, losing their savings, losing their marriages, embezzling from employers, and robbing others.

APPLICATION: Do not waste your hard-earned money on any form of gambling, illegal or legal. Beware, it’s a fool’s game. If you have money to spend, why not allocate it for God’s Kingdom? Why not invest it

in people, organizations and resources that generate an eternal return-on-investment?

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Proverbs 11:24-25 (KJV)，read The Wise Worker is Generous (Proverbs) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Frustrated @ Work: Poor Leadership

Devotions/Partners

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Matthew 23:2-3 (KJV): “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.”

COMMENTARY: If you read verses 4-12 in this chapter, you’ll discover that many of the religious leaders of the day loved the control and authority they held over people, loved the good “PR” in the public square, loved the attention and respect they received. However, if you examined the actual fruit of their own lives, they were sorely lacking in substance. In many ways they were pompous, self-centered, egotistical “windbags.”

APPLICATION: The verb “to frustrate” means “to prevent from attaining a goal or fulfilling a desire; to thwart; to nullify.” Frustration comes from many different directions. Sometimes God frustrates us because we aren’t trusting Him or we are not in line with His goals and desires for our lives. Sometimes Satan frustrates us because he knows we are in God’s will, and he tries to trip us up. Sometimes we frustrate ourselves, sometimes other people frustrate us, and sometimes we frustrate others.

Do you ever get frustrated at work by leaders who talk up a good story, but never deliver? They love the power, authority, PR, attention, respect and perks of leadership. However, the actual fruit of their lives and labors is sorely lacking. There’s a huge gap between perception and reality.

If a leader at work claims to be a follower of Christ, then you should see a servant Spirit. You should also see good fruit coming from a good tree. Don’t allow high-level spinmeisters to manipulate and deceive you from seeing reality. The time may come–perhaps today–when you have to call a spade a spade, and courageously stand against “spin” and stand up for what is right and truthful. In the final analysis, you’ll be glad you did.

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Proverbs 13:11 (KJV)，read Proverbs and Work from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Frustrated @ Work: Plans Fall Through

Devotions/Partners

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Isaiah 44:24-25 (KJV): “Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself; That frustrateth the tokens of the liars, and maketh diviners mad; that turneth wise men backward, and maketh their knowledge foolish.”

COMMENTARY: If you read verses 1-28 in this chapter, you’ll discover that God reminds man that He has sovereignty over everyone and everything, for He created them all. No one is like Him, no one can replace Him. He truly is the LORD.

APPLICATION: Do you ever get frustrated at work because things don’t pan out the way “you” planned? Maybe it’s because you’ve elevated yourself to the god of your life. Maybe you’re grown too dependent upon your abilities and resources, your counselors, your knowledge and your wisdom–and in the process, you have crowded God out.

Yes, you’re saved. Yes, you know you’ll spend eternity in heaven. However, you’re not enjoying the abundant life that Jesus proclaimed because God really isn’t #1 in your everyday life. God hates idolatry,

in whatever form it takes. He loves you to depend on Him 100%. Every day. Every moment. In every circumstance. Through the good times and bad. In the victories and defeats. In your strengths and weaknesses. The more you genuinely trust in the LORD and abide in Him, the less frustration you’ll experience and the more supernatural and invigorating your life will be.

Today, if you’re frustrated, please pause to pray. Ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit. He will replace your frustration with peace if you let Him.

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Matthew 23:2-3 (KJV)，read Living in the New Kingdom (Matthew 18-25) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Frustrated @ Work: Ongoing Issues

Devotions/Partners

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Genesis 3:17b-19a (KJV): “Cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground…”

COMMENTARY: If you read verses 1-24 in this chapter, you’ll discover why we live in such a dysfunctional, messed-up world. Adam and Eve were originally “born” into a perfect environment. However, they deliberately chose to disobey their perfect and righteous Creator, and they had to pay the penalty for their sin. The whole world then came under the curse of sin, and remains under the curse to this day.

APPLICATION: Do you ever have frustrating moments at work due to delays, glitches, curveballs, unexpected problems and crises? Join the club! We all do!

Business owners must be diligent about all areas of the business: Planning. Research and development. Sales and marketing. Production. Distribution. Human resources. Finance and administration. Facilities.

Of course, they cannot handle all of these alone. They rely on staff, suppliers, government agencies and customers to do what they’re supposed to do.

Strive as we may for perfection, “stuff happens.” If you are going through a particularly frustrating time at work today, remember that “this too shall pass.” There is an ebb and flow to problems. God never allows more to happen in our lives than what He equips us to handle, through His Word and His Spirit. We can learn to handle frustrating moments with more grace, humility, self-control, maturity and wisdom if we let Him teach us and flow through us more freely.

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Isaiah 44:24-25 (KJV)，read Servant at Work (Isaiah 40ff.) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Freedom Over Criticism

Devotions/Partners

1 Peter 2:20-21 (KJV): “For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, and when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.”

COMMENTARY: Not once was Jesus accurately and rightfully criticized for His faults, because He was faultless. Instead, He was criticized for doing well. He suffered for it and took it patiently. He lived out this passage of Scripture, leading His people by example. Anyone who seeks to walk in His steps must be willing to enter the “crucible of criticism.”

APPLICATION: Today, you can enjoy freedom over criticism and rejection at work! Here’s how.

First, accept that criticism and rejection are facts of life. You will be criticized, but it is much better to be

criticized for your good works in Christ than for your evil works in the flesh. If you cannot handle criticism and rejection wisely, then you will never grow to maturity and freedom in Christ.

Second, know the Truth from the Word of God (John 8:31-36). The Truth will set you free! People can talk, express their opinions, and rail on you all they want, but Truth is Truth. Make sure you are standing on the Rock.

Third, know God and abide in your specific call (1 Corinthians 7:20). Abiding in your call will give you great power and confidence, and will enable you to keep going in the midst of trials and tribulations. Abiding in God and in His call is the ultimate form of success.

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Genesis 3:17b-19a (KJV)，read People Fall into Sin in Work (Genesis 3:1-24) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Festive but Fickle

Devotions/Partners

Matthew 21:9 & 26:55 (KJV) “And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, HOSANNA TO THE SON OF DAVID: BLESSED IS HE THAT COMETH IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST.” “In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.”

COMMENTARY: There’s an air of excitement and electricity marching in a parade, as you go by spectators and perform in front of the reviewing stand. Imagine Jesus riding into Jerusalem in a parade-like atmosphere. Multitudes of people are lining the route, emotions and enthusiasm are running at peak levels, and Jesus is being celebrated as the hero of the day. But alas, just a few days later, the atmosphere in the city changes dramatically. Instead of palms, the multitudes now approach Jesus with weapons to arrest Him. Instead of being the “hero,” Jesus is now the “goat.” Jesus is amazed by the fickleness of the people.

APPLICATION: In the workplace, do you enjoy being the hero? The go-to person who takes the initiative and makes good things happen? Have you ever felt a sense of fulfillment as bosses, co-workers, employees or professional peers applaud your labors and successes? As long as you stay focused on Christ and full of the Holy Spirit, it’s all right to enjoy a few moments basking in the sun. You don’t have to feel guilty enjoying the recognition; look at it as a blessing from the Lord. But look out. Just a few days from now, the atmosphere of your workplace may change dramatically. Instead of cheers, you may receive jeers. Instead of compliments, insults. Instead of encouragement, discouragement.

The word “fickle” means inconstant, unreliable, ruled by whims. The fickleness of people hasn’t changed since Jesus’ days on earth. If the people were fickle toward Jesus, then people can and will be fickle with you. Whatever you do today, do it heartily as unto the Lord, and not unto men. He is the One you need to please, and He is the One to whom you will give an account when you die. If you rely on public opinion or consensus for happiness or direction, you’re heading straight for the bondage of discouragement, despair and depression. Don’t go there!

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about 1 Peter 2:20-21 (KJV)，read Faith and Work(s) (James 2:14–26) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Failure + Time + God’s Hand = Success

Devotions/Partners

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Romans 8:28 (KJV): “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

COMMENTARY: All of us have had horrendous, gut-wrenching, painful experiences in the working world. We’ve had surprises and curveballs that we didn’t see coming and knocked us down flat. We’ve experienced failures of various kinds. We’ve had moments when we thought all was lost, that our lives were ruined, that we had fallen into a pit that was too deep and too steep for escape. But what Satan meant for evil, God can and will turn for good in His time and in His way. We need to trust Him.

APPLICATION: Failure + Time + God’s Hand = Success. That’s what the Lord has taught me, and what I’ve experienced over the decades in my personal, family, church, community and business life.

Years ago, a friend of mine owned a world class precision manufacturing company. He built and grew the business from scratch, earning a stellar reputation with many of America’s largest, most powerful corporations. He landed a very large order from a major customer. Then, to his horror, his firm made a huge, unintended mistake in the manufacturing process.

Customer specifications were not followed, and hundreds of defective parts had already been shipped and installed around the world. Lives were at stake: if parts failed, people could die. After going through the initial stages of shock, pain and denial, the owner humbled himself before the Lord and his customer, quickly admitted his firm’s error, prayed for forgiveness and wisdom, and swiftly set out to replace every defective part, no matter what the cost. He was determined to do what was right, to do what Jesus would do, to do what would glorify God. His customer demanded that he be available 24/7/365, threatened to sue and terminate their long-time business relationship.

It took about a year to replace every part, but in the end, not one person was injured by any defective part, and not one lawsuit was ever filed. The customer was so impressed with this owner’s integrity, that they chose to keep his firm as a supplier and gave them a new multi-year, multi-million-dollar order. In fact, it was the largest order in the firm’s history. Plus, the owner’s handling of the crisis led to opportunities to share the Gospel!

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Matthew 21:9 & 26:55 (KJV)，read Living in the New Kingdom (Matthew 18-25) and Matthew and Work from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Face to Face

Devotions/Partners

3 John 1:13-15 (NIV): “I have much to write you, but I do not want to do so with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face. Peace to you. The friends here send their greetings. Greet the friends there by name.”

COMMENTARY: Never in the history of the world has mankind had such amazing tools by which to communicate. With today’s technology, John could have said something like this: “I had many things to overnight express, email, post on my website or social media, or share through Zoom. Instead, I’ll wait until we can meet in-person.” John knew there are times, situations and issues when nothing can replace eyeball to eyeball, heart to heart, person to person communication.

APPLICATION: By all means, your business should take full advantage of these new communications tools and technologies. However, there’s an inherent danger in relying entirely upon these tools. That is, we can go into a cocoon and lose the personal touch that only comes from face-to-face visits.

Today, think about your company’s sales and customer service operations. Perhaps it’s time to resurrect some of those “old fashioned” sales calls, plant tours and open houses that you used to do.

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Romans 8:28 (KJV)，read Eagerly Awaiting Bodily Redemption for Ourselves and God’s Creation (Romans 8:18–30) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Enthusiasm Makes a HUGE Difference!

Devotions/Partners

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Ephesians 6:7 (KJV) “Render service with enthusiasm, as unto the Lord and not to men and women.”

COMMENTARY: In today’s world, many people just “put in their time” at work. They get up and go to work out of sheer necessity, not out of any particular joy or passion for who they are and what they do. This drone-like existence goes on day after day, month after month, year after year until they eventually retire or die. And yet, in His Word, the Lord instructs us to work with enthusiasm. And what God instructs us to do, He mercifully and generously gives us the divine power to do it.

The word “enthusiasm” means God in you, full of God, fullness of joy. Since joy is one the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, Christ followers have access to supernatural source of enthusiasm that unbelievers don’t. The problem is, we don’t tap that source regularly.

APPLICATION: A work environment that lacks enthusiasm is cold and apathetic, which makes everyone’s job more difficult, tiresome, tedious, and tense. Each day before you go to work, ask the Holy Spirit to fill you. If you ask Him, He will! You’ll then enter your workplace full of divine joy, which will be evidenced by your enthusiasm. Your attitude and your altitude will change. And, when you forget to ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit, you will notice that your enthusiasm will wane and you will become more frustrated, cranky, crabby, irritable and impatient.

Over time, your enthusiasm will begin to rub off on your boss, peers, customers and suppliers. God will make you a lighthouse of joy, leading to opportunities to share the hope that dwells within!

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about 3 John 1:13-15 (NIV)，read 3 John and Work from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Enhancing Your Receptivity to Wisdom

Devotions/Partners

Proverbs 19:1 (KJV): “Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips and is a fool.”

COMMENTARY: Integrity is seeing concepts, people, things and events from God’s perspective, then making choices that coincide with His perspective. The Lord wants us to walk in wisdom, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and it begins with living lives of integrity.

APPLICATION: Search your heart, mind and soul today. The more your internal “climate” is in-line with these eight conditions, the more clearly you’ll hear wisdom:

1) Walking in integrity

2) Avoiding bribery

3) Understanding your place and abiding in it

4) Having a prudent spouse

5) Keeping God’s commandments

6) Having pity on the poor

7) Listening to wise counsel

8) Respecting and reverencing the Lord

Who is the wisest businessperson you know? It’s very likely that you will see these conditions present in his or her life on a continuous basis.

Joyfully yours,

Drew

For Further Exploration

For further exploration about Ephesians 6:7 (KJV)，read Mutuality in Working for the Lord (Ephesians 5:21–6:9) from the Theology of Work Bible Commentary.

Called To Work

Author: design

Gambling is a Fool’s Game

For Further Exploration

Frustrated @ Work: Poor Leadership

For Further Exploration

Frustrated @ Work: Plans Fall Through

For Further Exploration

Frustrated @ Work: Ongoing Issues

For Further Exploration

Freedom Over Criticism

For Further Exploration

Festive but Fickle

For Further Exploration

Failure + Time + God’s Hand = Success

For Further Exploration

Face to Face

For Further Exploration

Enthusiasm Makes a HUGE Difference!

For Further Exploration

Enhancing Your Receptivity to Wisdom

For Further Exploration

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