“I again saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, and the battle is not to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to those of intelligence and understanding, nor favor to men of ability; but time and chance overtake them all.”
— Ecclesiastes 9:11 AMP
When we take a closer look at life, we realize that success is not always a result of skill, strength, or intelligence. Rather, it often comes through time and chance. This “chance” isn’t random—it’s divine. It’s the unfolding of God’s purposeful plan through the right opportunities at the right time.
Understanding “Chance”
In the Kingdom, chance is not luck. It is the divine orchestration of events to fulfill purpose. God positions the right people, in the right place, at the right time. Our responsibility is to recognize and take advantage of these God-given opportunities in each season.
Life is not chaotic or accidental. God, the Creator, designed everything with intentional detail. Even unbelievers can walk in success—not because God favors them more, but because they align themselves with principles and opportunities designed into creation.
God’s Detailed Blueprint
“For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand, taking paths which He set, so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us].”
— Ephesians 2:10 AMP
God has prearranged a life filled with purpose for every believer. When we walk in alignment with His will, we walk into success—not by striving, but by trusting and obeying. There are no wasted steps with God. Even our mistakes, when surrendered to Him, are woven into His plan to bring us back to our divine path.
Biblical Examples: Joseph and Moses
Joseph’s journey is a powerful example. He had a dream, but his path was filled with what seemed like misfortunes—rejection by his brothers, being sold into slavery, imprisonment. But none of these events were random. Every step was a setup for his destiny.
In Potiphar’s house, Joseph learned administration. In prison, he developed discernment and favor. When the cupbearer and baker entered prison, Joseph’s gift made room for him. If he hadn’t been faithful in each season, he wouldn’t have stood before Pharaoh.
Likewise, Moses’ life was divinely guided. Hebrews 11:23-24 highlights how, by faith, he refused to be known as Pharaoh’s daughter’s son. Every moment of his life—being drawn out of the Nile, raised in Pharaoh’s palace, and his eventual leadership of Israel—was orchestrated by God.
Lessons for Us Today
- Effort, skill, and strength are good—but they do not define your destiny.
God’s plan does. - Your life is not random.
You are where you are for a reason. The people you meet and the opportunities you receive are part of a bigger picture. - Be faithful in each season.
Do your best without compromise. Every season prepares you for the next. Don’t stay where God has told you to move on. - Trust God wholeheartedly.
Pray, listen, and act wisely. You have the Spirit of God guiding you through life’s preordained paths. - Mistakes are not the end.
God is a restorer. If you’ve veered off course, He can bring you back. His grace ensures that even your detours can become testimonies.
Final Encouragement
Whatever season you’re in, give it your best. Stay in step with God. Do the right thing, even when it’s hard. Remember, your life is part of a divine story—crafted by a loving God who works all things together for your good.
