The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord. (Proverbs 16:33)
So they [the disciples] nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles. (Aces 1:23-26)
Then the sailors said to each other, “Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this [shipwreck] calamity.” They cast lots, and the lot fell on Jonah. (Jonah 1:7)
There is a science which studies probability, the law (or formula) of total probability, and other factors in predicting what is likely or unlikely to happen. Most people know little about laws of probability but a lot about “luck.” “Good luck” is credited for the good fortune people experience just as “bad luck” is blamed for bad fortune. Luck is even anthropomorphized into a person, “Lady Luck.” This fake deity is invoked at slot machines and roulette wheels in every gambling hall in the world.
But does it make sense to call on luck when facing tough decisions? Will Lady Luck act in favor or disfavor in your circumstance? The authors of Proverbs don’t support relying on chance factors. They directed us beyond superstition and behind a chance to the Person who does influence what happens…God.
Could it be that a sovereign God is so involved in the events of this world that He has a say in every roll of the dice, every spin of the wheel, every dealing of the cards? The Bible says yes. If so, praying to the true and living God is going to be a lot more helpful than appealing to a mythical someone in the great beyond somewhere!
But what about Bible references which support the casting of lots to divine God’s will or get answers to cosmic questions? In one of the passages above, Jesus’ disciples cast lots to decide which of their two “nominees” God would approve to be a replacement for Judas Iscariot who had killed himself? They prayed to God and then cast their lots. When the lot fell on Matthias, they picked him.
In this age in which Christian believers have God’s Word and the indwelling Holy Spirit for guidance, lots are superfluous and unnecessary. Out of grace, God might still work through casting them, but a more direct approach to Him through prayer to involve the Holy Spirit is preferred.
Principle: When seeking guidance in any of life’s circumstances, rely on God’s guidance, not a chance.
[from “Wisdom for the Trenches” by Dr. Larry W. Poland]