(1 Sam 2:26) And the child Samuel grew in stature, and in favor both with the LORD and men.
I think that in all of us there is that desire to be respected and liked by others. And then we wonder about how we can be more attractive to others and so gain their respect and admiration. Some people say you are born with charisma that magnetizes people to yourself. Others say esteem has to be earned through achievements or through something that will really get people to notice you. But what do you do when you feel your personality-plus is on the minus side?
The Bible says God gives favor. This Hebrew word in Samuel for favor (tobe) means to be valued in estimation. The New Testament word for favor is grace (charis) and means God favors us in Christ. This is all a gift from God. You don’t have to be born with it, you just have to realize Jesus loves you. And when you do, you’ll be beaming that unconditional love to others. Just like Samuel who had favor with God first . . . and then with men.
God gives favor for a purpose. He gives us favor so we can show His favor and acceptance to others. Esther is a good case for that. She was shown favor by others because God had plans to save His people from extinction under the cruel hand of Haman. (Est 7:3) Then Queen Esther answered and said, "If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request. Like Esther, Joseph and Daniel had favor for specific tasks they were to accomplish (Gen 39:4; Dan 1:9).
God also gives favor and winsome personalities, so we can win others to Jesus Christ. (Acts 2:47) praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
Isn’t this good news for those of us who feel like Eeyore? You know, always down about ourselves and our lot in life. Favor has nothing to do with status, looks, or anything of the kind. The world says you either have it or you don’t. But God says if you have Christ you have it and it will never be taken away. (Psa 30:5) . . . His favor is for life . . .
You are loved and beautiful in Christ. Let your life turn from bud to blossom. And let the fragrance of the love of Christ permeate the lives of those who are yearning for the favor they can only get from the Lord. (2 Cor 2:15) For we are to God the fragrance of Christ . . .
Louie
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