Wednesday, July 17, 2013

From Rags to Riches

This year's "November Nine" is now in place for the World Series of Poker Main Event.

The final table has quite a contrast of players.  Chip leader J.C. Tran has two bracelets and a TV poker reputation.  But a couple of finalists are listed with career tournament earnings of under $5,000.  That can be misleading, of course, due to players entering big-money cash games -- but for those two, the final table is a career breakthrough.

If poker playing has put you in a "poor house" financially -- a lot invested but only a little returned -- think carefully about what you're doing.  You might need to stay away from the table, for the good of yourself and your family.  But you could be close to what those two WSOP finalists have done:
Who is like the Lord our God, Who dwells on high.... He raises the poor out of the dust, And lifts the needy out of the ash heap, That he may seat him with princes -- with the princes of his people. - Psalm 113:5-8 (NKJV)


God can lift people up in His timing.  If He's done that in your life, be sure to thank God for it -- and walk in a way fitting of that thankfulness.

If it hasn't happened, ask God in prayer to reveal what kind of message He might be trying to show you.  But keep in mind: the Bible does not guarantee wealth and riches for everyone.  Instead Jesus reminds us....
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 5:3 (KJV) 


Based on the Bible's description, the coming Kingdom of God promises to be lavish and peaceful beyond compare.  Those are the "true riches" Jesus mentions elsewhere (Luke 16:11) -- and that we all should strive to have.


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