Christian View on Luck: Should Believers Say 'Good Luck'?
A few days ago, I had breakfast at a hotel in Entebbe (Uganda) after returning from a European conference. While in the dining room, I noticed another American woman struggling to place her order with the Ugandan server. I decided to help her, and we struck up a conversation. She mentioned they were on a “mission” in the country and inquired about our work in Uganda. As I was getting up to leave, she said, “I’ll be praying for you all,” but then hesitated and added, “Well, good luck with all you do.” I thanked her and went to my room.
We've all said it before: "Good luck with your exam!" or "Wish me luck for my job interview!" Even as Christians, these phrases often come naturally to us. However, have you ever stopped to think about what we mean when discussing luck? More importantly, how does the concept of luck align with our faith in a sovereign God?
As I walked along, I found myself engaged in an internal conversation. What exactly is luck, and how does it relate to the Christian life, if at all?
Let’s explore this topic together—not to impose another "thou shalt not" but to deepen our understanding of God's role in our lives and how we can encourage each other in faith-filled ways.
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Understanding Luck from a Biblical Perspective
When most people discuss luck, they are referring to the idea that good or bad things happen by chance—random occurrences without any guiding force behind them. This idea suggests that some individuals are "lucky" or "unlucky," as if invisible dice are being rolled to determine our fate.
This worldview contrasts greatly with what Scripture teaches us about God's sovereign care over our lives. Consider these verses:
The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord. (Proverbs 16:33)
Solomon’s wise words remind us that even what appears to be random chance is under God's control. What we might call "luck" Scripture presents as God's providence.
God's Providence vs. Luck: What Scripture Teaches
The Bible presents a radically different picture of how events unfold. Rather than random chance, we see a loving Father who is intimately involved in every detail:
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. (Matthew 10:29-30)
Think about that for a moment. If God keeps track of sparrows and hair counts, how much more is He involved in the significant moments of our lives? That job interview isn't subject to luck – it's in the hands of a God who knows exactly what you need and what's best for you.
Biblical Providence: Finding Balance Between Faith and Action
It's crucial to understand that believing in God's providence doesn't mean we should adopt a passive, fatalistic approach to life. While God is sovereign, He calls us to actively participate in His plan through prayer, wisdom, and responsible action.
Consider how Paul, while confident in God's sovereign protection, still actively planned his missions and even escaped danger through practical means (Acts 9:23-25). Or look at Nehemiah, who prayed fervently and carefully organized the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. The wisdom literature reminds us:
The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD (Proverbs 21:31).
This beautiful tension shows us we can trust God's sovereign care while taking meaningful action. We're not passive observers in God's plan but active participants who plan, work, and make choices while ultimately trusting in His guidance and provision.
Should Christians Say 'Good Luck'? Biblical Alternatives
We should focus on exercising wisdom instead of strict legalism in this situation. When someone wishes us "good luck," they express hope for our success and well-being. The phrase itself is not magical or inherently problematic; what truly matters is the underlying belief system behind it.
Consider these alternative ways to encourage others that reflect our faith:
"I'm praying for God's wisdom and guidance for you."
"May God give you clarity and confidence."
"I trust God will direct your steps."
"Praying for God's best for you in this situation."
These alternatives aren't just more "spiritual" versions of "good luck" – they actively acknowledge God's presence and involvement in our lives. As Paul reminds us:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)
3 Biblical Reasons to Trust Providence Over Luck
While casually saying "good luck" might not be a sin, developing a luck-based mindset can be spiritually harmful for several reasons:
It Can Lead to Anxiety
When we attribute outcomes to luck, we may feel powerless and anxious. Instead, Scripture encourages us to:
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)
It May Prevent Us from Seeing God's Hand
We might miss seeing God's purposeful work if we chalk everything up to good or bad luck. Remember Joseph's words to his brothers:
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. (Genesis 50:20)
It Can Foster Superstition
Believing in luck might lead to superstitious practices rather than faithful trust in God. Paul warns against this kind of thinking:
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. (Colossians 2:8)
4 Biblical Ways to Replace Luck with Trust in God
So, how do we move from a luck-based mindset to trusting God's providence? Here are some practical suggestions:
Practice Gratitude: Instead of attributing good things to luck, deliberately thank God for His blessings.
Pray Specifically: Rather than hoping for good luck, bring your specific needs before God: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6).
Trust God's Timing: Remember that what seems like coincidence might be God's perfect timing: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
Look for God's Hand: Train yourself to see God's work in the details of your life, even in seemingly random events.
Moving from Luck to Biblical Trust: A Christian's Journey
The next time you're tempted to wish someone "good luck," pause and consider: Could this be an opportunity to encourage their faith instead? Could your words point them to trust in God rather than chance?
Our God is not a God of luck but of purpose and promise. As the prophet Jeremiah reminds us:
‘For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Let’s live not by chance but by faith in a God who loves us and is actively involved in every aspect of our lives. This doesn't mean that every outcome will align with our desires, but we can trust the One who holds all things in His hands.
After all, who needs luck when you have a sovereign God who promises to work everything together for your good?
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