Do you believe in luck? The Bible speaks to good luck and its blessings, but it also speaks to the concept of reframing our perspective to tap into something more valuable.
Today, we will explore Bible verses that address luck and what it truly means to be fortunate.
Bible Verses About Being Lucky
Proverbs 16:33
“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.”
In this verse, Solomon highlights the role of God’s providence, even in what seems to be chance. Though one might cast a lot expecting randomness, the outcome is ultimately determined by God. The implication is that there’s no luck in the traditional sense, but divine oversight guiding the events of life.
Ecclesiastes 9:11
“I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.”
This verse acknowledges that, despite our abilities and efforts, certain outcomes are beyond our control. It seems to refer to “luck” or “chance” in worldly terms, but in the broader context, it suggests our dependence on God’s providence. It’s a call to humility, reminding us that even the most skilled or intelligent people can experience misfortune.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
These verses advise us to trust in God rather than our own understanding. When we submit to God’s will, we align ourselves with His plan, which is the best route to take. While this might not mean “luck” in a common sense, it denotes divine favor, which is a superior blessing.
Deuteronomy 28:2
“And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the LORD your God.”
This verse connects obedience to God with blessings. It suggests that, rather than relying on luck, we can enjoy divine blessings through obedience. The verse implies that we’re not just passive recipients of “luck”, but active participants in a relationship with God.
Matthew 5:45
“That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.”
This verse, from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, underscores the impartiality of God’s providence. The sun and the rain—symbols of life’s blessings and challenges—come to everyone, good and evil alike. This serves as a reminder that what we often call “luck” is part of the greater divine plan.
Also Read: 25 Bible Verses About Warning Before Destruction (With Commentary)
Romans 8:28
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
This popular verse affirms God’s sovereignty. For those who love God and align with His purposes, everything—even what might appear unfortunate—works together for their ultimate good. This verse redefines “luck” as God’s providential care for His people.
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
This verse assures believers that God will not allow them to face trials beyond their ability to withstand. Moreover, with every trial, He provides a means of escape. This divine provision might be seen as a form of “luck”, but it’s actually a testament to God’s care and faithfulness.
James 1:17
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
James reinforces that all good things, which might be viewed as “luck” in a secular context, are gifts from God. There’s no randomness or inconsistency with God; He’s the constant source of all blessings, suggesting that we should attribute “good luck” to His providential care.
Psalms 84:11
“For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.”
The psalmist paints a vivid picture of God as a provider and protector. He bestows favor and honor—good things which could be perceived as luck—on those who live righteously. This verse shifts the focus from luck to righteousness, highlighting the value of moral integrity.
Proverbs 22:4
“The reward for humility and fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life.”
Solomon links humility and the fear of the LORD with rewards that many might attribute to luck—riches, honor, and life. This verse challenges the idea of random luck, suggesting instead that these blessings are the outcome of a right relationship with God.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
This widely quoted verse illustrates God’s benevolent plan for His people, which could be perceived as a form of divine “luck”. The verse assures that God’s plans are for our welfare, offering a hopeful and promising future.
Luke 1:37
“For with God nothing shall be impossible.”
This verse conveys the limitless power of God, implying that any form of “luck” or blessing we experience is a manifestation of His will. The impossible becomes possible with God, signifying that believers should put their trust in Him over any notions of random luck.
Proverbs 13:21
“Misfortune pursues the sinner, but prosperity is the reward of the righteous.”
This verse links righteousness with prosperity, suggesting that living a life aligned with God’s principles may lead to outcomes often attributed to luck. It contrasts this with the misfortune that pursues sinners, underscoring the importance of righteousness.
Deuteronomy 23:5
“However, the LORD your God turned the curse into a blessing for you because the LORD your God loves you.”
This verse reveals God’s power to turn curses into blessings, implying that what might seem like “bad luck” can be transformed by God’s love and providence. It assures believers of God’s unwavering love and protective power.
Psalm 90:17
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!”
This verse is a prayer for God’s favor and success in one’s work. It indicates that what might be perceived as “luck” in one’s work is actually God’s favor, reinforcing the importance of seeking divine blessing.
Also Read: 29 Bible Verses About Wickedness (With Commentary)
Psalm 23:6
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
This verse from the famous Psalm 23 proclaims the enduring mercy and goodness of God, elements that could be perceived as divine luck or favor. It’s an affirmation of trust in God’s benevolence throughout life.
Psalm 5:12
“For you bless the righteous, O LORD; you cover him with favor as with a shield.”
Here, the psalmist describes God’s favor towards the righteous, illustrating it as a protective shield. This favor can be perceived as a form of divine luck, but it’s important to note that it’s closely tied to righteousness.
What does the Bible say About Being Lucky?
The concept of “luck” as it is commonly understood today is not explicitly addressed in the Bible. Instead, the Bible emphasizes the sovereignty of God and His role in orchestrating events in the lives of individuals. The Bible teaches that God is in control of all things, and nothing happens by mere chance.
Many verses in the Bible highlight the idea that God has a plan and purpose for every individual’s life. For example, Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) states, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This suggests that events in our lives are part of a larger divine plan.
Additionally, Proverbs 16:33 (NIV) states, “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.” This implies that even seemingly random events, like the casting of lots (an ancient method of making decisions), ultimately fall under God’s guidance.
Rather than attributing events to luck, the Bible encourages individuals to trust in God’s wisdom and seek His guidance in all circumstances. This perspective promotes a reliance on faith and a recognition of God’s sovereignty rather than on notions of luck or chance.