How can acknowledging God's favor impact our faith and actions today? The Moment Favor Was Announced Luke 1:28 — “The angel appeared to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.’” • A real angel, a real young woman, a real moment in history. • “Highly favored” (Gk. charitoō) speaks of God’s gracious choice, not human merit. • The same Lord who was with Mary remains with every believer (Matthew 28:20). What God’s Favor Means for Us Today • It is unearned grace, rooted in God’s character (Ephesians 2:8–9). • It ushers us into a secure relationship: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). • It positions us for purpose: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Ephesians 2:10). Favor Shapes Our Identity • Loved, not overlooked (1 John 3:1). • Chosen, not random (1 Peter 2:9). • Indwelt, not abandoned (John 14:18). • Empowered, not powerless (2 Corinthians 12:9). Favor Inspires Active Obedience Mary’s response (Luke 1:38): “I am the Lord’s servant… may it be to me as you have said.” Likewise, acknowledging favor moves us to: • Submit to God’s will even when costs are high. • Speak truth courageously, knowing His presence backs us (Acts 4:31). • Serve without resentment because grace has first served us (Mark 10:45). Favor Fuels Bold Faith • Confidence in prayer: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence…” (Hebrews 4:16). • Expectation of provision: “He who did not spare His own Son… how will He not also… graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). • Perseverance in trials: “My grace is sufficient for you” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Living in Favor: Practical Outworkings Daily reminders – Start with Scripture; rehearse promises of favor (Psalm 5:12). – Thank God aloud; gratitude cements identity. Relational choices – Extend the same grace received (Colossians 3:13). – Reject comparison; favor is not a competition. Missional living – Seek opportunities to announce the gospel; favor makes us ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20). – Invest gifts and resources freely, trusting God’s supply (2 Corinthians 9:8). Guarding Against Misunderstandings • Favor is not a guarantee of ease—Mary faced misunderstanding and risk. • Favor is not favoritism; God desires all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). • Favor does not nullify obedience; it energizes it. Summary Recognizing God’s favor anchors our identity, emboldens our faith, and propels us into obedient action. The same Lord who favored Mary stands with us, equipping us to live distinct, hope-filled lives for His glory. |
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