“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” Luke 2:52 NIV.
“Favor is an unexplained disposition and unexpected investment in your well-being by others.”
My thoughts today are about “favor with God and man.”
Everyday life is a lot easier when you live in such a way that you enjoy “favor with God and man.” Luke 2:32 NIV. Favor is an unexplained disposition and unexpected investment in your well-being by God or others. I have a friend, Kenny (more like family than friend to me), who is often described by others as having been “born under a lucky star.” He has been diligent, worked hard, and succeeded beyond his peers. Now, he and I both know that luck and stars have nothing to do with his success and reward. He serves God passionately and tirelessly and God blesses him, and he lives and treats others in such a way that people who hardly know him like him immediately and wish him every happiness and success. Kenny is a man that enjoys favor with God and man.
People would like to think that favor prevents and protects from things that are challenging and difficult, but that would not be true. My friend has had plenty of such times, but they have never changed the faith and optimism with which he lives, and by which he cheers and encourages others. Favor is God’s unchanged disposition toward you that adds blessing to your life and turns every obstacle into a greater achievement.
God also can give you favor with people, both friends and even enemies. When Israel was in captivity in Egypt, God promised Israel two things: favor with their enemies (Proverbs 16:7), and ample provision for their journey and new life. (Philippians 4:19). “I will give this people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, and it shall be when you go, you shall not go empty-handed.” Exodus 3:21 NKJV. God’s favor made the Egyptians give their “silver, gold, and clothing” extravagantly to the same Hebrews they had been impoverishing.
From Jesus’ earliest years, the Bible describes Him this way, “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:52 NIV. Before you discount the relevance of that because it was written about God’s Son, consider these words of Solomon: “My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” Proverbs 3:1-4 NIV. That is written for you! Favor is as much a part of your healthy, well-rounded development as it was of Jesus – mentally, physically, spiritually and socially.
Favor can do what your best skills and efforts may not – opening doors otherwise closed to you, removing obstacles impeding your progress, introducing unanticipated opportunities, and inviting you into select circles and relationships. Favor is networking in the best possible way! Pray for favor; walk before God in integrity and obedience; extend favor to others; anticipate favor from others. Here is God’s Word for you everyday, “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation!” 2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV. Also read 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 NLT.
My prayer for you today is that you enjoy the special grace and favor of Jesus Christ.