Just what is Favour?

"So Joseph found favour in his sight and served him. Then he made him overseer of his house, and all that he had he put under his authority."  Genesis 39:4   NKJV 

What is favour? The bible definition of this word is that it is God's grace, which is defined as acceptance, goodwill and preferential treatment. Favour is similar to grace, but favour can be deserved or gained, while grace is always a free gift. The Hebrew definition is a word Ratson, for, pleasure, delight, desire and favour. In other words favour means 'To be pleased with.'

Therefore, it is not hard to see why Joseph was given favour by Potiphar, and then the head prison warden and finally by Pharaoh, when Joseph was promoted to Prime Minister. Notice that Joseph didn't promote himself, he was promoted and this was because people noticed his integrity and his value to them.

Joseph's values were respected and recognised. He was trusted and appreciated and this brought credit to the Lord. From being hated and mistreated by his brothers; accused of rape by Potiphar's wife and thrown into prison, Joseph rose to a great height and it was because, he placed God first place in his life. 

Psalm 5:12 says, 'For You O LORD, will bless the righteous; with favour You will surround him as with a shield.'

Notice the word 'Will' that I have highlighted. When we place Jesus first place in our life and, determine to be sold out for Him, He will bless us. He will surround us with a shield of protection. Wherever we are; whatever may happen to us, He will be there to encourage and protect us. This thought can bring encouragement when you find your self in a 'no-win' situation. You may not be able to help yourself but, Jesus has a way of turning up bringing peace and a miracle, if it is needed.

What do people see in you? Do they see someone they can trust? Are they drawn to you and even though they don't know why, find it difficult to pass by without speaking to you? In other words, does Jesus reign in your life so much that, they just can't resist you? This is how people saw Jesus. He drew them to Himself. They liked Him or hated Him but, they just could not resist Him. When we live in such a way, people may see you as a threat because, you bring a challenge to their lifestyle, and this makes them uncomfortable. Others may see you as a person living the life that they would like to live, but most of them don't know what it is. Yet again, although they are believers themselves, they may want to know Jesus, like you do.

It all comes from walking the walk with Jesus. Wouldn't you like to walk in the favour of God? If so, spend time at His Throne.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned   

I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

Copyright 2024 Grahame Howard.                                

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