During our years at poker tables, we've been driven primarily by two things: cost and convenience. We'd rather not pay a steep buy-in (even though that can mean limited payoffs at the end of a tournament) -- and we'd rather not drive a long way to play. (Our main poker place in Georgia was walking distance from home.)
Now a writer has listed his top ten desires in a poker room. A couple of them were things we hadn't considered before - such as USB plug-ins for charging devices. But there's one we're really not sure about: TV's showing sports channels.
Following a pro or college game is OK, when you're out of a hand and the drama between players gets lengthy. But big plays on-screen when you're trying to make a big move with chips can be downright distracting.
We think the best poker players focus on the table, their opponents and what they're doing. And if you want to have success away from the poker room, the right focus matters as well.
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. - Hebrews 12:2
Our NIV Study Bible notes with this verse it's all about "concentration." (And we don't mean that old TV game show.) Get distracted by other things in life, and you might wander away from the best things - the things of God.
But my eyes are fixed on you, O Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge - do not give me over to death. - Psalm 141:8
Other people can lead you astray -- especially if their thoughts and minds are fixed on this world. It's a world that the Bible says is "passing away" (I Corinthians 7:31), while the things of God can last forever.
So let's discuss this in the comments section. What's the main reason for your choice of a poker room? And what do you think the perfect room should include?
