How should we respond when shown favor by others, as Hadad was? The Setting: Hadad’s Unexpected Favor 1 Kings 11:19: “Hadad found great favor in the sight of Pharaoh, who gave him a wife, the sister of his own wife, Queen Tahpenes.” • Hadad was an Edomite refugee in Egypt, yet Pharaoh welcomed him and elevated him. • Scripture records this detail to show that God can move even pagan rulers to extend kindness (cf. Proverbs 21:1). Recognize God as the Giver of Favor • Every kindness we receive ultimately traces back to the Lord. – James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above…” – Daniel 1:9: “Now God had granted Daniel favor…” • Acknowledge His sovereignty: He turns hearts at will, opening doors we could never force. Respond with Humble Gratitude • Give thanks immediately and openly. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in every circumstance…” • Maintain a grateful posture rather than a sense of entitlement. • Express appreciation to the human channel of blessing; don’t assume they “owed” it. Steward the Opportunity Wisely • View favor as a stewardship, not a trophy. – 1 Peter 4:10: “As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.” • Ask, “How can this platform, relationship, or resource advance God’s purposes?” • Stay diligent and trustworthy so the favor is not wasted (Genesis 39:3-4). Guard Against Pride and Compromise • Favor can puff up; Scripture warns: “Pride goes before destruction” (Proverbs 16:18). • Resist the temptation to soften convictions to keep approval (Galatians 1:10). • Keep close watch on motives—seeking God’s glory, not personal status. Extend Favor Forward • Let received kindness overflow to others. – Galatians 6:10: “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone…” • Look for the outsider, newcomer, or enemy to whom you can show the same grace. • In this way, favor becomes a conduit of God’s love rather than a cul-de-sac of self-interest. Keep Your Ultimate Allegiance with the Lord • Human favor is fragile; God’s approval is eternal (Psalm 146:3). • Keep walking in “loving devotion and faithfulness” so you “find favor…in the sight of God and man” (Proverbs 3:3-4). • If favor is withdrawn, trust that God’s hand remains steady and His plan unhindered. |
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