“Glory to God in the highest [heaven], and on earth peace among men with whom He is well pleased [men of goodwill, of His favor]” (Luke 2:14, AMP). The favor of God is not simply the granting of blessings but an invitation to draw closer to Him, to know His heart, and to walk as those who reflect His glory. For those who have walked with the Lord and know the depths of His grace, favor is a reminder that our pursuit of Him must never cease. It is an intimate call to abide in His presence and glorify Him through every aspect of our lives.
The Psalms declare the nature of His favor: “Let all those who take refuge and put their trust in You rejoice; let them ever sing and shout for joy, because You make a covering over them and defend them… For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous… as with a shield You will surround him with goodwill (pleasure and favor)” (Psalm 5:11-12, AMP). God’s favor is a covering of protection and an overflowing of His love for those who live uprightly. Yet it is more than a gift—it is an invitation into deeper communion, where we rejoice in His name and trust in His steadfast care.
David’s cry in Psalm 30:7 (AMP), “By Your favor, O Lord, You have established me as a strong mountain; You hid Your face, and I was troubled,” speaks to the one who has walked closely with the Lord. For those who have tasted and seen His goodness, the hiding of His face brings a deep sorrow. This reminds us that favor is not merely about the blessings of life but about the nearness of God’s presence.
Moses understood this profound truth when he cried out, “If I have found favor in Your sight, O Lord, let the Lord go in our midst” (Exodus 34:9, AMP). He did not desire favor for personal gain but longed for God Himself, knowing that His presence alone could sustain and guide the people. So, too, we must set our hearts on God, not on what He provides, but on who He is—the faithful One who is our refuge, our joy, and our strength.
For those who have walked long in the faith, God’s favor requires a response of intentionality and maturity. Consider these applications:
1. Remain in Constant Dependence on God
The favor of God is rooted in relationship. Those who know Him well must guard against the temptation to grow self-reliant or complacent. As Jesus taught, “Abide in Me, and I will abide in you” (John 15:4, AMP). Seek Him daily—not as a duty, but as the source of life and strength. Let your prayer be a continual longing for more of Him, for the closer you walk with Him, the more His favor will transform you.
2. Walk Uprightly in Every Part of Life
“For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous” (Psalm 5:12, AMP). Those who walk closely with the Lord must live lives of integrity and holiness. Examine every area of your life—your words, your thoughts, your relationships, and your work. Ask, “Does this glorify God? Is this pleasing in His sight?” Walking in uprightness is not about earning favor, but about living as one who reflects the heart of God.
3. Be a Vessel of His Favor to Others
God’s favor is not meant to be hoarded but shared. Reflect His goodness in how you serve, encourage, and lead others. Like the apostle John, who declared the love of Christ to the Church, let your life testify to the favor of God. Mentor younger believers, show mercy to the hurting, and live as a witness to His goodness so that others may see His glory through you.
A Word of Warning and Encouragement
David’s words remind us that favor can be neglected when we fail to seek God’s face. To those who have walked with the Lord, remember that His favor is not an entitlement but a gift born out of intimacy with Him. Stay humble, stay prayerful, and stay dependent upon His Spirit. And take heart—His favor is steadfast, His mercies are new every morning, and His presence is your greatest reward.
Prayer for the Faithful in Christ:
Lord, we praise You for the favor You have shown us through Your Son. Teach us to seek Your presence above all else, to treasure You more than any blessing, and to live in a way that brings You glory. Guard our hearts from complacency, and help us to walk uprightly, serving as vessels of Your love and goodness. Let us never grow weary in pursuing You, but stir within us a deeper longing for Your presence each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
For those who have journeyed far with the Lord, the call remains the same: press in, seek Him with all your heart, and let His favor lead you into greater depths of His love and purpose.