Introduction

The concept of God's favor is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often manifesting in ways that defy human expectations. God's favor, or grace, is His unmerited kindness and blessing bestowed upon individuals or groups, often leading to transformative outcomes. This entry explores instances where God's favor is revealed in unexpected ways, highlighting His sovereignty and the mysterious workings of His divine plan.

Old Testament Examples

1. Joseph in Egypt: Joseph's life is a profound example of God's favor in unexpected circumstances. Sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph found himself in Egypt, where he rose to prominence in Potiphar's house. Despite being falsely accused and imprisoned, God's favor remained with him. Genesis 39:21 states, "But the LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden." Ultimately, Joseph's rise to power as Pharaoh's second-in-command saved Egypt and his family from famine, demonstrating God's providential care.

2. Ruth the Moabitess: Ruth, a Moabite widow, experienced God's favor through her loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Despite her foreign status, Ruth found favor in the eyes of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi. Ruth 2:10 records her surprise: "At this, she fell on her face, bowing low to the ground, and said to him, 'Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you should take notice of me, though I am a foreigner?'" Boaz's kindness led to their marriage, and Ruth became the great-grandmother of King David, placing her in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

3. Gideon's Victory: Gideon, a man of humble origins, was chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites. Despite his initial doubts and the small size of his army, God's favor ensured victory. Judges 6:12 records the angel of the LORD's greeting: "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior." God's favor was evident as Gideon's 300 men defeated a vast enemy force, underscoring that victory comes not by human might but by divine intervention.

New Testament Examples

1. Mary, Mother of Jesus: The announcement of Jesus' birth to Mary is a quintessential example of God's favor in an unexpected way. A young, humble woman from Nazareth, Mary was chosen to bear the Son of God. Luke 1:30-31 records the angel Gabriel's words: "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus." This divine favor brought about the incarnation of Christ, altering the course of history.

2. The Apostle Paul: Formerly known as Saul, a persecutor of Christians, Paul experienced God's favor through a dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus. Acts 9:15 reveals God's purpose: "But the Lord said to Ananias, 'Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel.'" Despite his past, Paul became a pivotal figure in spreading the Gospel, illustrating God's ability to transform lives in unexpected ways.

3. The Philippian Jailer: In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were imprisoned in Philippi. An earthquake opened the prison doors, yet they remained, leading to the conversion of the jailer and his household. Acts 16:29-31 recounts the event: "Trembling with fear, the jailer called for lights, rushed in, and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and asked, 'Sirs, what must I do to be saved?' They replied, 'Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.'" God's favor extended to the jailer in a moment of crisis, bringing salvation to his family.

Conclusion

Throughout Scripture, God's favor often appears in ways that challenge human understanding and expectations. These instances reveal His sovereignty, grace, and the unfolding of His divine purposes, encouraging believers to trust in His providential care even in the most unlikely circumstances.