How can we align our lives to receive God's favor as in Psalm 5:12? The Promise Stated “For You bless the righteous, O LORD; You surround him with favor as with a shield.” (Psalm 5:12) Favor Defined Across Scripture • Psalm 84:11 – “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk with integrity.” • Proverbs 3:3-4 – “Never let loving devotion and faithfulness 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.” • 1 Peter 3:12 – “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are inclined to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” God’s favor is His active goodwill, protection, and blessing extended to those who walk in righteousness and integrity before Him. Living in Covenant Righteousness • Receive the imputed righteousness of Christ through faith (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Pursue practical righteousness by obeying revealed commands (James 1:22). • Reject every form of wickedness, knowing unrepentant sin blocks fellowship (Psalm 66:18). Guarding the Heart • Daily meditate on Scripture so thoughts align with truth (Psalm 1:2-3). • Cultivate gratitude; favor rests on hearts that honor God rather than grumble (Colossians 3:15-17). • Keep short accounts through regular confession (1 John 1:9). Practices That Invite Favor • Humility before God and others; “He gives more grace” to the humble (James 4:6). • Generosity toward the needy; “God is able to make all grace abound” to cheerful givers (2 Corinthians 9:8). • Steadfast love in relationships; mercy triumphs over judgment (Matthew 5:7). • Consistent worship and fellowship; God inhabits the praises of His people (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Seeking His kingdom first; “all these things will be added” (Matthew 6:33). Walking in Ongoing Dependence Favor is not a one-time gift but a daily shield. Continuous trust, obedience, and communion keep believers under its protection. As lives remain aligned with God’s Word, His surrounding favor proves sure and steadfast. |
    |