In what ways can we seek favor from God as in Psalm 45:12? Setting the Scene Psalm 45 presents a royal wedding song that prophetically celebrates the Messiah as King. Verse 12 highlights two responses to His splendor: “The Daughter of Tyre will come with a gift; men of wealth will seek Your favor.” The picture is clear—honor is expressed by bringing our best and actively pursuing the King’s goodwill. What Does “Favor” Involve? • Delight in the King’s presence • Enjoyment of His blessing and protection (Psalm 5:12) • The privilege of intimate access (Hebrews 4:16) • Fruitful life and answered prayer (John 15:7) Practical Ways to Seek God’s Favor • Bring Him your best treasures – Firstfruits of income (Proverbs 3:9-10) – Skills and talents used for His kingdom (1 Peter 4:10) – Time set apart for worship and service (Psalm 27:4) • Offer wholehearted worship – “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and enter His courts.” (Psalm 96:8) – Cultivate gratitude and praise daily (Hebrews 13:15) • Walk in humble obedience – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” (1 Samuel 15:22) – Align decisions with clear scriptural commands (James 1:25) • Live with steadfast love and faithfulness – “Let loving devotion and faithfulness never leave you… Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.” (Proverbs 3:3-4) • Maintain a repentant, contrite heart – “He mocks the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) – Regular confession keeps fellowship unhindered (1 John 1:9) • Pursue purity and holiness – “For the LORD God is a sun and shield… He withholds no good thing from those who walk with integrity.” (Psalm 84:11) • Show generosity toward people in need – “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17) – Giving to others mirrors Tyre’s gift-bearing spirit and pleases the King (Matthew 25:40) • Trust Him wholeheartedly – “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” (Hebrews 11:6) – Actively rely on His promises rather than self-reliance (Psalm 37:5) Promises Attached to Seeking Favor • Guidance and success (Psalm 32:8; Joshua 1:8) • Protection from harm (Psalm 91:14-16) • Fruitful influence on others (Acts 2:47; Luke 2:52) • Eternal rewards and inheritance (Colossians 3:23-24) Summary Psalm 45:12 portrays honored guests approaching the King with costly gifts, eager for His smile. We do the same today by bringing our best, worshiping wholeheartedly, obeying faithfully, walking humbly, living generously, and trusting completely. Such a lifestyle delights the King and positions us to experience His gracious favor both now and forever. |
    |