In what ways can we seek God's favor in our daily lives? Setting the Scene: Hannah, Elkanah, and Eli “Then Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife, saying, ‘May the LORD give you children by this woman in place of the one she dedicated to the LORD.’ Then they would go home.” (1 Samuel 2:20) Hannah’s wholehearted surrender of Samuel drew a spoken blessing from Eli. That moment shows how God notices devotion and delights to extend favor. We can learn from their story and walk each day in ways that welcome the same gracious attention. Key Principle: God Honors Devoted Hearts • Hannah gave her first and best to the LORD. • Eli, acting as priest, declared God’s favor over her future. • God answered with more children (2 Samuel 2:21), proving He repays trust with overflowing goodness. Practical Steps for Seeking God’s Favor Today • Offer the day’s first moments to Him—read, worship, listen. (Psalm 5:3) • Keep every promise you make to God and people. (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5) • Give sacrificially—time, resources, talents—expecting nothing but His smile. (Malachi 3:10) • Stay planted in a local church; receive the blessing of spiritual leadership. (Hebrews 13:17) • Cultivate gratitude before requests, as Hannah did. (1 Samuel 2:1-2) • Walk in integrity at home, work, and community; favor follows righteous living. (Proverbs 11:20) Supporting Scriptures to Anchor Our Walk • Psalm 5:12 — “For surely You, O LORD, bless the righteous; You surround them with favor like a shield.” • Proverbs 3:3-4 — “Never let loving devotion and faithfulness leave you… Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.” • Luke 2:52 — “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” • James 4:8 — “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Daily Checklist for Walking in Favor □ Start with praise and Scripture. □ Speak truthfully; keep your word. □ Release what you value to bless others. □ Honor parents, pastors, mentors. □ Thank God for present mercies before seeking new ones. □ Conclude the day recounting His faithfulness. Final Encouragement: Walking in Favor Daily Live like Hannah—worshipful, trustworthy, generous—and God’s favor will meet you just as surely as He multiplied her family. Favor is not luck; it’s the natural overflow of a life aligned with His heart. |
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