Divine Favor

Divine favor, often referred to as grace, is a central theme in the Bible, representing God's unmerited kindness and love towards humanity. It is the benevolent disposition of God that results in blessings and salvation for His people. The concept of divine favor is evident throughout Scripture, beginning with the creation narrative, where God bestows life and provision upon Adam and Eve (Genesis 1:28-30).

In the Old Testament, divine favor is frequently associated with God's covenantal promises. For instance, Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord, leading to his preservation during the flood (Genesis 6:8). Similarly, God's favor is evident in His choice of Abraham, promising to make him a great nation and to bless all the families of the earth through him (Genesis 12:2-3).

The Psalms often reflect on divine favor as a source of protection and blessing. Psalm 5:12 states, "For surely You, O LORD, bless the righteous; You surround them with the shield of Your favor." This favor is not earned by human merit but is a gift from God, as seen in the life of David, who was chosen by God despite his humble beginnings (1 Samuel 16:12-13).

In the New Testament, divine favor is most fully revealed in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The incarnation, life, death, and resurrection of Christ are the ultimate expressions of God's grace. John 1:14 declares, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Through Christ, believers receive the favor of salvation, as articulated in Ephesians 2:8-9 : "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."

Human Choice

Human choice, or free will, is the capacity given by God to individuals to make decisions and choose between different courses of action. This concept is foundational to the biblical narrative, beginning with the choice presented to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:16-17). Their decision to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil illustrates the profound impact of human choice on the relationship between God and humanity.

Throughout Scripture, human choice is depicted as a significant factor in the unfolding of God's plan. The Israelites were repeatedly given the choice to obey God's commandments and receive His blessings or to turn away and face consequences (Deuteronomy 30:19-20). Joshua's exhortation to the people of Israel underscores this: "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15).

In the New Testament, the call to repentance and faith in Christ is an invitation to exercise human choice. Jesus' ministry was marked by calls to follow Him, as seen in Matthew 4:19 : "Come, follow Me, Jesus said, and I will make you fishers of men." The apostle Paul also emphasizes the role of human choice in responding to the gospel, urging believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12).

While divine favor and human choice may seem paradoxical, they coexist within the biblical framework. God's sovereign grace does not negate human responsibility; rather, it empowers individuals to choose rightly. The mystery of divine favor and human choice is ultimately reconciled in the wisdom and purposes of God, who works all things according to His will (Ephesians 1:11).