There are some standard answers about why poker players take the actions they do. We like to joke that the famous last words of some players is, "They were suited." And we'll confess in a couple of cases at this week's tournament, we chased hands with marginal cards simply because we had a hunch about them paying off. (In every case we recall, they didn't.)
When it comes to our lives, we pointed out previously that "why" matters - especially to God:
And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts... - I Chronicles 28:9
This is advice from a departing King David to his son and successor. He doesn't stop there....
If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. - I Chronicles 28:9b
So it's better to seek God - and best to serve him in a wholehearted and willing way. That brings us to two critical four-letter words:
He [Jesus] replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." - Luke 11:28
It's important to obey. But let's be honest: you can obey every instruction from a poker dealer and Floor Manager, and still do it with a sour attitude and approach.
When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. - James 4:3
OK, so what's the right motive? It's that second four-letter word....
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. - John 13:34
If you love me, you will obey what I command. - John 14:15
Jesus said "love" and "obey" are words which go together. They're words we've mentioned often in this blog, as they apply to poker and life. Do a word search for them. Consider the verses we've found about them. And see if the "why" behind your actions becomes less muddled, and more honorable.
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