Why Mormons

Tag: Self-Reliance

  • Why Do Mormons Avoid Gambling?

    Why Do Mormons Avoid Gambling?

    In many cultures around the world, gambling is widely accepted and often promoted as harmless entertainment. Casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and online gambling platforms are common, legal, and sometimes even encouraged as sources of revenue for governments and communities. Because of this, people often notice that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints consistently avoid gambling in all its forms. This raises an important and sincere question: Why do Mormons avoid gambling?

    For Latter-day Saints, avoiding gambling is not about judging others or condemning society. It is a personal and religious choice rooted in deeply held principles about work, stewardship, family stability, self-reliance, moral responsibility, and trust in God. Gambling is viewed not simply as a financial activity, but as something that shapes attitudes, habits, and values in ways that conflict with discipleship and long-term well-being.

    Rather than relying on chance, luck, or sudden gain, Latter-day Saints believe God encourages His children to build their lives through honest effort, patience, planning, and faith. Avoiding gambling reflects a desire to live intentionally and responsibly, placing trust in God rather than in randomness.

    Understanding why Mormons avoid gambling requires exploring how they view money, work, family, addiction, gratitude, agency, and what it means to follow Jesus Christ in everyday decisions.

    Emphasis on Work and Personal Responsibility

    One of the most fundamental reasons Latter-day Saints avoid gambling is their strong emphasis on work and personal responsibility. They believe God expects individuals to provide for themselves and their families through honest labor, education, and service.

    Gambling is seen as seeking financial gain without productive effort. While it may promise quick rewards, it bypasses the principles of diligence, patience, and skill development that Latter-day Saints value.

    In their belief, work is not merely a way to earn money. It is a means of growth, discipline, self-respect, and contribution to society. Honest labor builds character, teaches responsibility, and creates stability.

    Wealth Through Effort

    Latter-day Saints are encouraged to view wealth as something that comes through consistent effort rather than sudden chance. Education, employment, entrepreneurship, and service are all seen as honorable paths to providing for one’s needs.

    This perspective shapes how members view money. Financial resources gained through work are appreciated as blessings earned through effort and stewardship, not luck.

    Stewardship Over Resources

    Money is viewed as a resource entrusted by God. Latter-day Saints believe they are accountable for how they use it.

    Gambling is seen as risking resources unnecessarily. Even when losses are small, the habit of placing money on chance rather than planning is viewed as inconsistent with wise stewardship.

    Members are encouraged to budget, save, invest responsibly, and use money to meet needs, support family, and serve others.

    Gambling and the Risk of Addiction

    Another major reason Latter-day Saints avoid gambling is the recognition that it can become addictive and destructive. Gambling addiction affects millions of people worldwide, often leading to financial ruin, emotional distress, broken relationships, and mental health struggles.

    The Church teaches that avoiding behaviors with high addictive potential is a form of wisdom and self-care.

    How Gambling Can Become Harmful

    Gambling is designed to be psychologically engaging. The possibility of reward, combined with uncertainty, can create powerful emotional responses. For some individuals, this leads to compulsive behavior that is difficult to control.

    Latter-day Saints believe that what begins as entertainment can gradually turn into dependence. Avoiding gambling entirely is seen as a way to prevent this progression before it begins.

    Protecting Individuals and Families

    Family stability is a central value in Latter-day Saint belief. Gambling addiction is viewed as a serious threat to that stability.

    Financial losses, secrecy, emotional stress, and broken trust can damage marriages and families. By avoiding gambling, members seek to protect their families from these risks.

    Prevention Over Recovery

    Latter-day Saints often emphasize prevention rather than recovery when it comes to harmful behaviors. While they believe in compassion and support for those struggling with addiction, they also believe it is easier and healthier to avoid such behaviors altogether.

    Avoiding gambling is seen as a proactive choice that preserves freedom and peace.

    Moral and Spiritual Considerations

    Beyond practical concerns, gambling raises moral and spiritual questions for Latter-day Saints. They believe gambling can encourage attitudes that conflict with humility, gratitude, and trust in God.

    Gambling promotes reliance on chance rather than effort. It can foster impatience, greed, and the desire for quick gain without corresponding responsibility.

    Latter-day Saints believe true blessings come through obedience, service, and faithfulness rather than luck.

    Trust in God Rather Than Chance

    A core principle of Latter-day Saint belief is trust in God’s timing and provision. Gambling, by contrast, places trust in randomness.

    Members believe relying on chance can weaken spiritual habits of patience, prayer, and planning. Instead of seeking shortcuts, they are encouraged to trust that God will bless honest effort in His own time.

    Contentment and Gratitude

    Avoiding gambling encourages contentment with what one has. Latter-day Saints believe gratitude is a spiritual discipline that fosters happiness and peace.

    Gambling often feeds dissatisfaction by focusing on what could be gained rather than appreciating what already exists. By avoiding it, members seek to cultivate gratitude rather than constant desire for more.

    Gambling and Agency

    Agency—the ability to choose—is central to Latter-day Saint belief. Gambling can undermine agency by creating habits that limit freedom of choice.

    When gambling becomes compulsive, individuals may feel controlled by impulses rather than guided by reason and values. Latter-day Saints believe preserving agency is essential for spiritual growth.

    Avoiding gambling helps individuals remain free to make intentional, value-based decisions.

    Gambling Versus Healthy Recreation

    Some people view gambling as harmless entertainment. Latter-day Saints acknowledge that many forms of recreation are enjoyable and healthy, but they believe gambling carries unique risks.

    They encourage recreation that builds relationships, skills, and well-being. Activities such as sports, music, service, travel, and family time are viewed as positive alternatives.

    Entertainment is meant to refresh and uplift, not create dependence or risk essential resources.

    Financial Stability and Long-Term Planning

    Latter-day Saints emphasize long-term financial stability over short-term gain. Gambling, even when losses are small, encourages a mindset focused on immediate outcomes rather than careful planning.

    Members are taught to plan for the future through saving, education, employment, and preparation. This long-term approach supports family security and emotional peace.

    Avoiding gambling aligns with this vision of stable, intentional living.

    Gambling and Social Responsibility

    Gambling often affects more than just the individual. Families, workplaces, and communities can suffer when gambling leads to financial or emotional instability.

    Latter-day Saints believe personal choices have social consequences. Avoiding gambling is one way they seek to act responsibly within their communities.

    This perspective reflects the belief that discipleship includes considering how personal behavior affects others.

    Common Misunderstandings About Gambling and Mormons

    A common misunderstanding is that Latter-day Saints believe all games or competition are wrong. This is not the case. Friendly competition, games, and sports are widely enjoyed.

    The concern is specifically with risking money or valuables on chance-based outcomes.

    Another misunderstanding is that avoiding gambling means fear of money or financial opportunity. Latter-day Saints believe in earning, saving, investing, and managing money wisely. The issue is not money itself, but how it is obtained and used.

    Some assume members avoid gambling because of cultural pressure. While culture plays a role, the underlying motivation is spiritual conviction.

    Compassion for Those Who Gamble

    Latter-day Saints are taught not to judge those who gamble. They recognize that people have different beliefs, experiences, and circumstances.

    The focus is on personal commitment rather than policing others’ behavior. Members believe compassion, understanding, and support are more effective than condemnation.

    Those who struggle with gambling addiction are viewed with empathy rather than blame.

    Gambling and the Teachings of Jesus Christ

    Latter-day Saints strive to align their lives with the teachings of Jesus Christ. They believe His teachings emphasize humility, honesty, stewardship, and concern for others.

    While the Bible does not mention modern gambling explicitly, members believe Christ’s teachings about wealth, responsibility, and trust apply directly.

    Avoiding gambling is seen as consistent with Christ’s emphasis on building life on solid foundations rather than risky pursuits.

    Peace of Mind and Emotional Well-Being

    Many Latter-day Saints report that avoiding gambling contributes to peace of mind. Financial decisions are simpler, stress is reduced, and trust within families is strengthened.

    Rather than worrying about losses or chasing wins, members can focus on relationships, service, and spiritual growth.

    This emotional stability is considered a valuable blessing.

    Teaching Youth About Gambling

    Latter-day Saints often teach children and youth about the risks of gambling early in life. The goal is not fear, but awareness.

    Young people are taught principles of work, saving, patience, and gratitude. These lessons help them develop healthy attitudes toward money and success.

    Avoiding gambling becomes part of learning responsible adulthood.

    Gambling in a Modern Economy

    In a world where gambling is increasingly accessible online, avoiding it requires intentional choice. Latter-day Saints believe this intentionality strengthens character and self-discipline.

    Choosing not to gamble becomes a way to practice saying no to harmful influences, even when they are socially accepted.

    Why This Belief Matters

    Avoiding gambling matters because it shapes how Latter-day Saints live their values. It reinforces principles of work, responsibility, patience, and trust in God.

    It protects individuals and families from financial and emotional harm. It encourages long-term stability rather than short-term risk.

    For believers, this practice reflects a desire to live disciplined, Christ-centered lives focused on enduring happiness rather than temporary excitement.

    A Broader Christian Perspective

    Many Christian traditions warn against greed, exploitation, and love of money. Latter-day Saints see their avoidance of gambling as consistent with these broader Christian concerns.

    They believe wealth should be a tool for good, not a source of anxiety or harm.

    An Invitation

    Latter-day Saints invite others to understand their avoidance of gambling not as restriction, but as a choice for freedom, stability, and peace.

    They believe living without reliance on chance encourages trust in God, appreciation for honest effort, and stronger relationships.

    They invite all people to reflect on how their financial choices align with their values and long-term well-being.

    Sources

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gospel Topics: Self-Reliance
    https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org

    Church News – Gambling and Moral Responsibility
    https://www.thechurchnews.com

    Doctrine and Covenants Central
    https://doctrineandcovenantscentral.org

    Scripture Central
    https://scripturecentral.org

  • Why Do Mormons Have Food Storage?

    Why Do Mormons Have Food Storage?

    One of the practices often associated with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is food storage. Many people have heard that “Mormons store food,” and this idea sometimes leads to misunderstandings. Some assume it is driven by fear, extreme survivalism, or expectations of imminent catastrophe. Others imagine basements filled with years of supplies stored in isolation from the rest of society.

    For Latter-day Saints, food storage is none of those things. It is not about panic, doomsday predictions, or withdrawing from the world. Instead, it is a practical expression of deeply held spiritual values: personal responsibility, self-reliance, stewardship, compassion, and trust in God.

    Food storage reflects the belief that God expects His children to prepare wisely for the future while also caring for others. It is a principle rooted in scripture, reinforced by modern prophetic counsel, and applied in balanced, reasonable ways according to individual circumstances.

    Understanding why Mormons have food storage requires looking beyond stereotypes and exploring how they understand preparation, faith, family responsibility, and service to others—all within the broader framework of Christian discipleship centered on Jesus Christ.

    Preparedness as a Principle of Faith

    Latter-day Saints believe faith and preparation go together. Trusting God does not mean ignoring reality or avoiding responsibility. Instead, faith motivates wise action.

    In their belief, God works through both spiritual guidance and practical effort. Preparing for the future is seen as a form of obedience and gratitude rather than fear. Food storage is one way members act on the belief that God expects them to use wisdom, foresight, and effort to care for themselves and their families.

    This approach reflects a balance between reliance on God and personal responsibility. Latter-day Saints believe God provides resources and guidance, but individuals are accountable for how they use those blessings.

    Biblical Foundations for Food Storage

    One of the most frequently cited biblical examples supporting food storage is the story of Joseph in Egypt. According to the Bible, Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dream as a warning that seven years of abundance would be followed by seven years of famine. Acting on divine inspiration, Joseph organized the storage of grain during times of plenty so the people could survive years of scarcity.

    Latter-day Saints view this story as a clear example of inspired preparation. Joseph did not act out of fear but out of wisdom. He did not hoard resources selfishly but organized storage to bless entire nations.

    This narrative reinforces the idea that preparation is not a lack of faith, but an expression of it.

    Wisdom and Stewardship

    Scripture often emphasizes stewardship—the responsibility to manage resources wisely. Latter-day Saints believe everything they have ultimately comes from God, including food, income, time, and abilities.

    Food storage is seen as part of responsible stewardship. Preparing for the future shows respect for God’s gifts and acknowledges that blessings should not be wasted or taken for granted.

    Learning From Scripture

    Beyond Joseph’s story, the Bible repeatedly teaches prudence, foresight, and care for one’s household. Proverbs praises the wise who prepare for the future, while cautioning against recklessness and complacency.

    Latter-day Saints believe these teachings apply not only spiritually but also practically.

    Modern Prophetic Counsel

    In addition to biblical foundations, food storage has been encouraged by modern leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Over many decades, Church leaders have taught principles of self-reliance, preparedness, and emergency planning.

    This counsel has evolved with time. In earlier periods, members were encouraged to store larger quantities of food due to economic uncertainty and limited access to resources. In more recent years, leaders have emphasized balance, adaptability, and personal circumstances.

    The focus today is not on storing excessive amounts of food, but on being reasonably prepared for short-term disruptions and emergencies.

    Adapting to Modern Realities

    Church leaders recognize that not everyone has the same financial means, living space, or family size. Food storage is not presented as a rigid requirement but as a flexible guideline.

    Members are encouraged to do what they reasonably can, according to their situation. This might mean storing a few weeks or months of food, building supplies gradually, or focusing on water and basic necessities.

    Personal Responsibility

    Preparedness is framed as a personal responsibility rather than a comparison with others. There is no competition or judgment regarding how much food someone stores.

    The emphasis is on thoughtful planning rather than perfection.

    Self-Reliance and Independence

    A central reason Latter-day Saints value food storage is their belief in self-reliance. Self-reliance does not mean isolation or rejection of community support. Instead, it means being capable of caring for oneself and one’s family during temporary hardship.

    Food storage helps families remain stable during challenges such as job loss, illness, natural disasters, or supply disruptions. Having basic necessities on hand reduces stress and allows families to focus on problem-solving rather than panic.

    Self-reliance is viewed as empowering rather than fearful. It fosters confidence, resilience, and peace of mind.

    Strengthening Families

    Food storage is closely connected to family responsibility. Latter-day Saints believe parents have a duty to provide for and protect their families.

    Preparing food and basic supplies helps ensure that families can meet essential needs even when circumstances change suddenly. This preparation contributes to emotional security as well as physical well-being.

    Families who feel prepared often experience less anxiety during crises. Children learn valuable lessons about planning, responsibility, and gratitude.

    Food Storage and Emotional Peace

    One often overlooked benefit of food storage is emotional peace. Knowing that basic needs can be met during unexpected situations provides reassurance.

    Latter-day Saints believe preparedness helps replace fear with calm. Instead of worrying about what might happen, families can face uncertainty with greater confidence.

    This emotional stability is considered a blessing in itself.

    Helping Others in Times of Need

    Food storage is not only about self-preservation. One of its most important purposes is enabling service to others.

    Latter-day Saints believe preparation allows them to help neighbors, friends, and community members during emergencies rather than becoming a burden. When disasters occur, those who are prepared are better able to share resources, time, and support.

    This reflects the Christian commandment to love one’s neighbor.

    Community and Compassion

    Many members have stories of sharing food with others during crises—whether after natural disasters, economic downturns, or personal hardships.

    Food storage turns compassion into action. It allows members to respond quickly and generously when others are in need.

    This outward focus is a core reason food storage is encouraged.

    Church Welfare and Preparedness

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also operates extensive welfare and humanitarian programs. These efforts are supported by principles of self-reliance and preparedness at both individual and organizational levels.

    Food storage at the family level complements broader Church efforts to care for the poor and needy.

    Prepared individuals strengthen the entire community.

    What Food Storage Typically Includes

    Food storage does not mean storing unusual or unfamiliar foods. Latter-day Saints are encouraged to store items they already use regularly.

    This often includes staples such as grains, canned goods, dried foods, water, and basic household supplies. The goal is practicality, not novelty.

    Storing familiar foods ensures that supplies can be rotated and used without waste.

    Gradual Preparation

    A key principle emphasized by Church leaders is gradual preparation. Food storage is meant to be built over time, not through sudden or overwhelming purchases.

    Members are encouraged to start small and add items gradually as resources allow. This approach prevents financial strain and makes preparedness manageable.

    Avoiding Waste

    Wise food storage includes proper rotation and use. Latter-day Saints are taught to avoid waste by regularly consuming stored food and replacing it.

    This reinforces the principle of stewardship and respect for resources.

    Not Fear-Based or Apocalyptic

    One of the most common misunderstandings about food storage is that it reflects fear of the end of the world. Latter-day Saints strongly reject this idea.

    Food storage is not motivated by predictions of apocalypse. It is motivated by everyday realities such as storms, power outages, economic instability, and personal emergencies.

    Most emergencies are temporary and local. Food storage helps families weather these situations with dignity and stability.

    Balance and Reasonableness

    Church leaders consistently emphasize balance. Food storage should not become an obsession or source of anxiety.

    Preparedness is meant to simplify life, not complicate it. Members are encouraged to remain calm, flexible, and focused on spiritual priorities.

    Trust in God and Human Effort

    Food storage illustrates how Latter-day Saints combine trust in God with practical effort. They believe God expects His children to act wisely while trusting Him for ultimate outcomes.

    Preparation does not replace faith; it expresses faith.

    This balance reflects the belief that God often works through human planning and action.

    Teaching Children About Preparedness

    Food storage is often a teaching opportunity within families. Children learn lessons about planning, gratitude, and helping others.

    Parents may involve children in simple preparedness activities, such as organizing supplies or learning how to use stored food.

    These experiences teach responsibility without fear.

    Preparedness in a Modern World

    In an interconnected global economy, disruptions can happen quickly. Supply chains, natural disasters, and economic shifts can affect access to basic goods.

    Latter-day Saints believe reasonable preparedness is increasingly relevant in modern society. Food storage helps families adapt to temporary disruptions without panic.

    Preparedness and Dignity

    Being prepared allows families to maintain dignity during hardship. Rather than relying immediately on external assistance, they can draw on their own resources.

    This does not eliminate the need for community support, but it strengthens personal confidence and resilience.

    Common Misunderstandings

    Some believe food storage is mandatory or strictly enforced. In reality, it is encouraged, not policed.

    Others believe it requires large financial investment. Church teachings emphasize modest, gradual preparation.

    Some assume it leads to isolation. In practice, it often leads to greater community engagement and service.

    Why This Belief Matters

    Food storage matters because it reflects how Latter-day Saints view life: as something requiring both faith and responsibility.

    It reinforces principles of self-reliance, compassion, foresight, and trust in God. It prepares individuals not only to survive difficulties, but to serve others during them.

    For believers, food storage is a quiet expression of discipleship—lived out in practical, everyday choices.

    A Broader Christian Perspective

    Many Christian traditions value preparation, charity, and care for family. Latter-day Saints see food storage as consistent with these broader Christian values.

    They believe preparing for the future allows them to focus more fully on loving God and serving others.

    An Invitation

    Latter-day Saints invite others to understand food storage not as fear-driven behavior, but as thoughtful, faith-based preparation.

    They believe wise preparation brings peace rather than anxiety and enables people to face uncertainty with confidence and generosity.

    Sources

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gospel Topics: Self-Reliance
    https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org

    Church News – Preparedness and Self-Reliance
    https://www.thechurchnews.com

    Doctrine and Covenants Central
    https://doctrineandcovenantscentral.org

    Scripture Central
    https://scripturecentral.org