Dear Dave,

I’ve been playing the lottery a bit lately. I’m a Christian, and I was wondering what your views are on this. We’ve been struggling financially, and it seems that a chance to win millions is worth a buck or two. Your advice and opinion on this would be cherished. --Dawn

Dear Dawn,

You’re kidding. Do you really want my opinion? I don’t think you do, but here goes. I’ll tell you ahead of time—it’s not going to be pretty!

Basically, you’ve told me that you’re having money troubles and at the same time you’re throwing money out the window. You can tell yourself that it’s only a buck or two if you want, but that little bit of money represents a lot of financial irresponsibility in your life. You’re thinking somebody has to win, right? Well, let me tell you something. You’re more likely to be hit by lightning five times and survive than you are to win the lottery. Five times! How many people do you know who have been hit once by lightning and survived, much less five times?

You’re not going to win, Dawn. Think I’m just being negative? No, I’m not. I’m being positive. I’m positive you’re not going to win! Stop placing your hope in the wrong things.

Honestly, as a Christian, ask yourself if you believe God thinks this is a good use of your money. The lottery is a tax on poor people and people who can’t do math. How do I know this? Because these are the only people who play the lottery! --Dave