Thought for the Day

Proverbs continually stresses the fact that when we seek God and leave the outcome of all circumstances to Him, He will bring about the results that are right.

In ancient times, important matters were often decided by "lot." Lots (i.e. various sizes of sticks and stones) were used as objects to decide matters such as distribution of tasks or land, etc. They were placed in a container and cast out at random to determine the choice in question. This method of deciding portentous issues was widely used in Old Testament times. A modern equivalent is that of "drawing straws." Let us say that an important task must be done, but no one wants to do it. They agree to draw straws. All parties decide that whoever draws the shortest straw will be the one chosen for the task. Their leader gathers the straws and cuts them in different lengths. He holds them in his hand. Only the tops, arranged evenly, can be seen. The uneven ends are hidden in his hand. Each person draws a straw and the one who draws the shortest straw must do the pre-assigned task. Drawing straws or casting lots is an impartial way to make a difficult decision. Those participating cannot complain, since the selection was not done by a vote. "The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty" (Proverbs 18:18).

God commanded the Israelites to use the lot to divide the Promised Land among the tribes (Numbers 26:55-56). This was fair. Otherwise, some of the tribes could have complained if they felt that the distribution was done in favor of one tribe over another. Since the land consisted of hills, mountains, fertile plains, and coastlands, this was an impartial way to distribute it. No one would have trusted man's decision; however, because they trusted God in this kind of selection, they felt that the one selected was God's choice. Unseen by man, God is working behind the scenes. Those chosen by lot were ultimately God's choice. He is the One who removes a person from a position and puts another into it. "But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another" (Psalm 75:7).

The Lord is the righteous Judge of all the earth. "….Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?" (Genesis 18:25).