What practical steps can we take to seek God's favor like Samuel? Samuel’s Model of Favor 1 Samuel 2:26: “And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the LORD and with men.” Why Favor Matters • Favor is God’s gracious smile, opening doors and shaping reputations. • It is never earned by merit, yet God delights to grant it to obedient hearts (Psalm 5:12). • Samuel shows that even in corrupt surroundings (Eli’s sons), it is possible to shine. Living in God’s House: Choose Wholehearted Service • Samuel “was ministering before the LORD” (1 Samuel 2:18). • Practical steps: – Volunteer early and often; take “small” tasks seriously. – Arrive ready, on time, and prepared to bless. – Keep motives pure—serve because He is worthy, not for applause (Colossians 3:23). Stay Close to His Presence • Samuel slept near the ark; closeness was literal. • Today: – Guard a daily, unhurried Bible-and-prayer slot. – Commit to weekly corporate worship; linger rather than rush out. – Carry His presence into ordinary places—work, school, home. Guard Purity When Others Compromise • Eli’s sons sinned openly; Samuel stayed clean (1 Samuel 2:22–25). • Steps: – Set clear moral boundaries before temptation appears. – Filter media; flee situations that stir lust or greed (2 Timothy 2:22). – Invite accountability—trusted believers who ask hard questions. Listen—and Act—When God Speaks • 1 Samuel 3 shows Samuel responding, “Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.” • Cultivate: – Quiet spaces free from digital noise. – A journal to capture impressions tested by Scripture. – Immediate obedience; delayed obedience is disobedience (James 1:22). Pursue Steady Growth • Luke 2:52: “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” • Ways to grow: – Read through the whole Bible annually; note God’s character. – Memorize key verses; wield them in prayer and temptation. – Seek mentors; wisdom multiplies in community (Proverbs 13:20). Walk in Humility and Faithfulness • James 4:6: “God… gives grace to the humble.” • Practice: – Confess sin quickly; keep short accounts. – Serve unseen; let others receive credit. – Thank God aloud for every success, redirecting praise. Build God-Honoring Relationships • Favor “with men” grows through righteousness and kindness (Proverbs 3:4). • Action points: – Speak truth graciously; refuse gossip. – Keep promises; reliability breeds respect. – Show practical love—meals, help, listening ears. Expect and Celebrate His Blessing • Psalm 5:12: “You bless the righteous… surround them with favor like a shield.” • Trust that obedience positions you under the fountain of divine kindness. • When favor appears, trace it back to the Giver, not your effort. Putting It All Together • Serve faithfully. • Stay near God’s presence. • Pursue purity. • Listen and obey. • Keep growing. • Walk humbly. • Invest in people. As these rhythms shape daily life, the same God who favored Samuel delights to extend that favor to His children today. |
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