Survivor: Las Vegas

Perhaps the World Series of Poker Main Event should have that title above.  Out of 6,352 players, only nine will sit down at the final table in Las Vegas Monday evening.

The biographies of the finalists show a range of backgrounds -- players from Israel and the Netherlands, along with the U.S.; players who like to surf and play table tennis on their free time.  But we're struck by the fact that at least two of the "November Nine" are not full-time poker pros.  One is called simply a "hobbyist" -- which in a way describes us as well.

People who do something only on a part-time basis can have a little bit of success.  (Check our final table numbers on the days we play.)  Full-time poker players probably do better in the long run, because they utilize their skills on a regular basis.  And God requires a similar commitment from us:

So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good. - I Peter 4:19

Sometimes you can spot the difference between a halfway-committed follower of God and one who's, well, all-in.  Their words or actions give them away.  If you can see it, imagine how quickly God can spot it.

Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm.  Let nothing move you. Always give ourselves fully to the  work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. - I Corinthians 15:58

Work for God will be rewarded in the end -- especially if you work for Him until the end:

....Because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. - Ephesians 6:8

So who will be rewarded in Las Vegas this week?  We think JC Tran will utilize his experience and chip lead, to take it all.  What's your prediction?

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.