Ellen White on the Spiritual Dangers of Card Playing

Card playing for fun is a dangerous amusement that is condemned by Heaven and should be strictly prohibited by Christians2MCP 736.1+1. While some consider it a harmless parlor pastime to be enjoyed under the parental eye, it actually cultivates a love for exciting pleasures that leads down a path toward certain ruinAH 516.3+1.

The Spiritual and Moral Danger

• Presence of Evil: The prince of darkness presides over the gaming room, and evil angels are familiar guests wherever cards are playedCH 197.2+1.

• Destructive Influence: These games destroy all relish for serious thought, prayer, and religious servicesAH 516.3+1.

• Path to Crime: Expertise in handling cards creates a desire for personal benefit, leading to staking small sums, then larger ones, until a thirst for gambling is acquiredCT 334.1+1. This habit has led many to poverty, prison, and even murderCE 34.3+1.

• Immorality and Appetite: Card playing is often associated with other debasing habits, such as liquor drinking, tobacco use, and corrupt associations20MR 53.4+2.

Effects on the Mind and Body

• No Real Benefit: There is nothing in such amusements that is beneficial to the soul or body, nor is there anything to strengthen the intellectCT 334.1.

• Mental Weariness: Instead of providing true rest, these games excite and weary the brain, which is especially harmful for those recovering from illness1LtMs, Lt 8, 1867, par. 5+2.

• Loss of Dignity: The conversation during these games is often trivial, degrading, and filled with unseemly jests that destroy the true dignity of manhoodCH 197.2+1.

Parental and Christian Responsibility

• Parental Vigilance: Parents who allow these amusements in their homes are opening the door to the world and dishonoring GodCG 278.1+1. They must guard their children from the first handling of cards to prevent them from entering the "downward road to immorality"20MR 53.4+1.

• Holy Alternatives: Christians should condemn all such plays and substitute them with something perfectly harmless and beneficial, such as recreation in nature and the contemplation of God's worksCH 195.1+2.

• Spiritual Preparedness: We are living in a time when the judgments of God are in the world, and we must not be found engaged in foolish diversions when the Lord returns Luke 12:40BTS June 1, 1902, par. 5+1.

True peace and joy are found not in the excitement of the card table, but in a living connection with Christ Psalms 16:8-918LtMs, Ms 68, 1903, par. 5. By choosing to refuse these temptations, we maintain the moral power necessary to serve God faithfully20MR 53.4+1.