Casting Lots in the Bible
When Evil Uses "Chance" Against God's People
In Esther 3:7, we encounter a chilling moment: "In the first month, that is, the month Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, they cast Pur, that is, the lot, before Haman from day to day, and from month to month, to the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar."
Haman used casting lots—essentially gambling—to determine when all Jews would be executed. But God had other plans.
What Were "Lots" in Biblical Times?
Casting lots was pure chance, like:
- Rolling dice
- Flipping coins
- Drawing straws
- Spinning a wheel
It required no skill—just random chance. Haman trusted this arbitrary method to set his genocidal plan in motion.
The Disposing thereof is of the Lord
Here's the key truth: Proverbs 16:33 declares, "The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord."
This doesn't mean God predetermines every dice roll. Rather, even when evil people use random methods, God can redirect the outcome for His purposes. Haman's "chance" lot gave the Jews almost a full year to prepare—exactly the time Mordecai and Esther needed to save their people.
Christians and Games of Chance
What's Wrong with Gambling?
- Seeks something for nothing instead of honest work
- Depends on others losing money for you to win
- Appeals to greed and covetousness (Colossians 3:5)
- Undermines trust in God's provision (Matthew 6:25-34)
What About Legitimate Risk?
There's a difference between gambling and taking calculated risks in business or farming. Farmers can't control weather, but they're working hard while trusting God's providence—not seeking easy money through chance.
We Have Something Better Than Luck
Romans 8:28 promises: "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."
We don't need lucky charms or lottery tickets. God works all circumstances—even random, chaotic events—for the good of those who love Him.
When You're Falsely Accused
Just as Haman falsely accused the Jews of not keeping the king's laws (Esther 3:8), faithful Christians will face false accusations when they refuse to compromise their allegiance to King Jesus. Stand firm in truth while being the best citizens possible.
The Bottom Line
Haman cast lots to destroy God's people, but God's providence turned their intended day of destruction into a day of deliverance. The same God who worked behind the scenes in ancient Persia is working in your circumstances today.
Don't trust in chance—trust in God and His perfect will.
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