Reading the Word

“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.” (Proverbs 16:33, ESV)

Understanding and Applying the Word

In the time this proverb was written, the casting of lots was used to make some decisions. A “lot” was a stone that was thrown down and, based on what side it landed on, could be used to remove bias from a decision. Casting lots could be compared to rolling a die for such a decision today.

In the previous verses of this chapter, we see that carefully laid plans of the heart are fully in the control of God (cf. Proverbs 16:1, 9). Now, we are also told that even what seems to be random is under the sovereign hand of God. Its every decision is from the Lord. Nothing is truly random. God leaves nothing to chance.

Whatever you may be going through and whatever you may be struggling with, know that the Lord is sovereign and his plans and purposes are being fulfilled. Our God is the Almighty and we can trust in him. Go to him with your questions or concerns and go to him with your praises for holding you in his hands at very moment.

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