Definition and Significance

Favor with God refers to the special grace, approval, and blessings bestowed by God upon individuals who live in accordance with His will. This divine favor is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, highlighting the importance of a righteous and faithful life. It is often associated with God's mercy, love, and kindness, and is seen as a key factor in the lives of biblical figures who were chosen for significant roles in God's plan.

Biblical Examples

1. Noah: Noah is one of the earliest examples of an individual who found favor with God. In Genesis 6:8, it is written, "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD." Noah's righteousness and obedience led to his selection to build the ark, preserving humanity and animal life from the flood.

2. Abraham: Abraham's relationship with God is marked by favor due to his faith and obedience. In Genesis 12:2, God promises Abraham, "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing." Abraham's favor with God established him as the patriarch of the Israelites.

3. Joseph: Joseph's life is a testament to God's favor, despite the trials he faced. Genesis 39:21 states, "The LORD was with him and extended kindness to him, granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden." Joseph's favor with God ultimately led to his rise to power in Egypt and the salvation of his family during famine.

4. Moses: Moses found favor with God, as seen in Exodus 33:17: "So the LORD said to Moses, 'I will do this very thing you have asked, for you have found favor in My sight, and I know you by name.'" Moses' favor allowed him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and receive the Law on Mount Sinai.

5. Mary: The mother of Jesus, Mary, was highly favored by God. In Luke 1:30, the angel Gabriel tells her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God." Her favor resulted in her becoming the mother of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Characteristics of Those Who Find Favor

1. Righteousness and Obedience: Individuals who find favor with God often exhibit a life of righteousness and obedience to His commandments. Proverbs 3:3-4 advises, "Let loving devotion and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man."

2. Faith: Faith is a crucial element in gaining God's favor. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."

3. Humility: Humility is another key trait. James 4:6 reminds us, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'"

4. Seeking God: Actively seeking a relationship with God is essential. Psalm 119:58 declares, "I have sought Your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to Your promise."

Consequences of Favor

1. Blessings and Prosperity: Those who find favor with God often experience blessings and prosperity. Deuteronomy 28:1-2 promises, "If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all His commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God."

2. Protection and Guidance: God's favor provides protection and guidance. Psalm 5:12 assures, "For surely You, O LORD, bless the righteous; You surround them with the shield of Your favor."

3. Fulfillment of God's Purpose: Favor with God often aligns individuals with His divine purpose, enabling them to fulfill roles in His plan. Ephesians 2:10 states, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Conclusion

The importance of favor with God is evident throughout the Bible, as it is a key element in the lives of those who are chosen to carry out His will. By living a life of faith, righteousness, and humility, believers can seek to find favor with God, resulting in blessings, protection, and the fulfillment of His divine purpose.