The lottery hit 300 million dollars this past week. When the jackpot’s that high, I like to think of what I’d do with that much money. The number of people I could help would be astronomical.
Approx. 70% of lottery winners end up broke.
Now, let me make this clear, I’m not advocating purchasing lottery tickets. If you want to do so, that’s between you and God. It has nothing to do with me or any particular religion.
But too often people dream about what they can purchase in the way of large houses and fancy cars. Many winners of the large lottery jackpots have ended up miserable. They don’t realize that money doesn’t buy happiness. Sure it can make things more comfortable, but happiness comes from within. Don’t believe me? Just look at Hollywood. How many stars seem to have a life we’d love to live only to get hooked on drugs or kill themselves?
According to Nerdwallet.com, the average
household credit card debt is $16,425.00.
It might be wiser to pay your debt than
to play the lottery.
The only thing that will give you the peace you need to enjoy life is the love of Jesus Christ. The world will let you down every time. In John 16:33 Jesus told us, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
We grab at things to try to impress people we don’t really care about. And in the end, we don’t really like ourselves much. No matter how much we spend, something always comes along to end that high. A new electronic device, a friend with a prettier pair of shoes. The list can go on. What we really need to do is look within, not in the windows of the nearest Macy’s.
_________________________
Successful people are unhappy not because their homes are empty, but because their souls are empty. – Kathryn J. Bain
_________________________
As long as we focus on the things of this world, we will never be content.
That doesn’t mean you can’t dream about winning big. But next time dream differently. How about coming up with a plan for a nonprofit that helps the homeless instead of a mansion on the hill. Not only will you feel better about this dream, but if it comes true, you will be able to help others.
Just remember if you do play, do so responsibly. It’s great to dream, but to do so at the detriment of your family is selfish. The chances of winning are not worth allowing yourself and your children to go without food or shelter in the hopes you might win big.
If you or someone you know is in need of prayer this week, please leave a comment. We’d be more than happy to pray for you. And if this post moved you in some way, please feel free to share it.
For the latest on my upcoming books, events, and giveaways, sign up to receive my monthly newsletter at http://bit.ly/2obgc53.
