The whole thing might be a mystery. If we all look at the whole event, we will observe that we are not in full control of what happen in our lives. We are just a contributor. The outcome of our contributions might not be favorable sometimes and we get the thumbs up at some times.i use to tell people that life is not balance and cannot be balanced no matter the formula you use.
Another thing about your friends in the scenario you mentioned is that smart work is far rewarding that hard work in present times. We should not also neglect the place of Grace.
Thank you