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Symbolic Expression in the Works of J.R.R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings
More Than One Power
9/13/2K6
"There was more than one power at work"
-- Gandalf, on Gollum losing and Bilbo finding the Ring (Fellowship, p. 65)
The finding of the Ring by Bilbo is an expression of supernatural providence. Supernatural providence also finds expression in the finding of the Ring. Both are true.
Supernatural providence in Middle-earth is not always brought about directly by the Creator. In between Creator and creation, in Middle-earth, are intermediate beings called powers. Some are good, and some are bad.
Gandalf's words may contain a reference to these powers. In Gollum losing the Ring, and in Bilbo finding the Ring: "There was more than one power at work" (Fellowship, p. 65, emphasis mine).