How can we apply the principle of seeking God's favor in our daily lives? The Favor Sought: 1 Kings 1:37 “May the LORD be with Solomon as He has been with my lord the king, and make Solomon’s throne even greater than that of my lord King David.” What the Verse Teaches • God’s presence equals God’s favor; the throne would flourish only if the LORD stayed with Solomon. • Favor can increase (“even greater”) when God chooses to bless obedient generations. • Human endorsement (David’s officials) looks to divine endorsement; they recognize only God can secure the future. Timeless Principles on Divine Favor • God’s favor accompanies covenant faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:9). • Favor is never earned, yet it rests on obedience (1 Samuel 2:30). • Favor can grow through generations that honor Him (Psalm 103:17). • Seeking favor is inseparable from seeking God Himself (Psalm 27:8). Daily Practices for Seeking God’s Favor 1. Consistent, humble prayer – “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us.” (Psalm 90:17) 2. Quick obedience to revealed commands – “Observe and obey…that it may go well with you.” (Deuteronomy 12:28) 3. Align plans with His purposes – “Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be established.” (Proverbs 16:3) 4. Cultivate steadfast love and faithfulness – “Bind them around your neck…then you will find favor.” (Proverbs 3:3-4) 5. Walk in integrity – “The LORD detests crooked men but…He is intimate with the upright.” (Proverbs 3:32) 6. Keep a worshipful heart – “Those who look to Him are radiant.” (Psalm 34:5) Heart Posture That Attracts Favor • Humility: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) • Teachability: Solomon asked for wisdom first (1 Kings 3:9–13). • Gratitude: “In everything give thanks.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) • Dependence: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) Living It Out: Everyday Scenarios • At work: Choose honesty over shortcuts; trust God for promotion (Psalm 75:6-7). • In family life: Practice forgiveness, modeling the favor you seek (Ephesians 4:32). • In finances: Tithe and give generously; He honors cheerful givers (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). • In decisions: Pause to ask, “Will this invite more of God’s presence?” (Colossians 3:17). • With time: Prioritize Sabbath rest; favor flows from honoring His rhythms (Exodus 20:8-11). Key Verses to Memorize and Pray • Psalm 90:17 – “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us.” • Luke 2:52 – “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” • Acts 2:47 – “Praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.” • Proverbs 8:35 – “Whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD.” Living Under the Smile of God Seek His face more than His gifts, walk in humble obedience, and expect the same faithful God who exalted Solomon to pour out favor on ordinary days and ordinary people who delight in Him. |
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