What does "look with favor" in Psalm 84:9 reveal about God's character? Psalm 84:9 in Context “Behold our shield, O God, and look with favor on the face of Your anointed.” Defining “Look with Favor” • “Look” (Hebrew nabat) carries the idea of intentional, steady attention. • The phrase is not a casual glance; it is a purposeful, benevolent gaze that communicates acceptance and delight. • Coupled with “favor,” it points to an active, positive inclination—God choosing to regard someone with grace and goodwill. God’s Character Revealed • Attentive—He notices and responds to His people. (Psalm 33:18) • Gracious—His gaze brings blessing, not condemnation. (Numbers 6:25) • Protective—The verse pairs His favor with being a “shield,” underscoring His role as defender. (Psalm 3:3) • Covenant-keeping—The “anointed” originally points to Israel’s king, showing God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises. • Christ-centered—Jesus is the ultimate Anointed One; God’s favor on Him secures favor for all who are in Him. (Luke 3:22; Ephesians 1:6) • Empowering—His favorable gaze equips His servants for their tasks. (2 Chronicles 16:9) Supporting Scriptures • “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry.” (Psalm 34:15) • “For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro throughout the whole earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is fully devoted to Him.” (2 Chronicles 16:9) • “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayer.” (1 Peter 3:12) Practical Implications for Believers • Rest—You are under a gaze of favor, not indifference. • Confidence—His protective shield surrounds those He favors. • Identity—Union with Christ means the Father looks on you with the same delight He has for His Anointed. • Motivation—Knowing His attentive grace fuels obedient, worship-filled living. |
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