Misusing God's Word

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." -- 2 Timothy 2:15

I get so upset when a "Christian" judges others and uses the Bible as his excuse. The Bible says not to drink or the Bible says not to gamble or the Bible says ... on and on. You fill in the blank. I wonder if they've ever even bothered to read the Bible themselves.

The Bible, for those who truly don't know, doesn't say not to drink. It says don't get drunk because it leads to all kinds of sin. So true. But the Bible doesn't say no drinking. In fact, in John 2: 1-11, Jesus turned water into wine.

The Bible also doesn't say not to gamble. The excuse many give is that while Jesus was on the cross, men cast lots for his belongings. That's true. Jesus' death was horrible. He suffered and died for us and we owe Him a debt we can never repay. However, that doesn't mean the Bible says not to gamble.

The Old Testament repeatedly refers to casting lots to determine God's will. It wasn't considered gambling. It was a way to determine what to do.

Anyone can argue against drinking and gambling. Or argue for them both. But don't use the Bible as an excuse. And remember, when you aren't sure, read it for yourself. The Bible is a wonderful book full of many good teachings. Spend time with it and I promise you, God will spend time with you.