Olive Branch Discipleship Ministries

7.22.22

What is favor?

The Bible indicates that it is “an act of kindness by God the Father beyond what is due us as Believers in Christ, or what is usual.” This is purely an act of kindness not deserved by us just because we ask with a pure heart – like us as earthly parents toward our kids or family members. It is a wonder to receive. I truly believe very few of God’s children (active followers of Jesus) every even ask. To me that is so sad. I would wonder why my earthly children or family never asked me (within reason).

Let us remedy this immediately! First, check your motives. God knows our hearts so we can’t fool Him like we try to do with our earthly family. Second: the one stipulation we cannot get around is that we must have asked Jesus into our hearts, forgiving all who have hurt or offended us. There must not be any sin or separation between us.

Let’s let the Word of God speak of this to us:

Psalms 5:12 For you bless the righteous (right standing with God through Jesus), O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield.

Psalms 84:11 For the Lord is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good things does He withhold from those walk uprightly (continually with Christ).

Psalms 91:14-15 Because he (Believer) holds fast to Me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows My Name. When he calls to Me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.

Proverbs 12:2 A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but a man of evil devices he condemns.

Matthew 6:14-15 For if you forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you don’t forgive men their trespasses (sins, hurts, offences, towards you), neither will your Heavenly Father forgive your trespasses (your sins and offenses against others).

Prayer: Father God, I ask you to forgive me for my sins against ___________________, any offenses I have committed against anyone, any lies, gossip, pain. I desire to be in right standing with you and I ask you for undeserved favor and blessings in my life, in my work, in my relationships, in my day. I am grateful for your love, patience, and guiding with correction. Amen

• Pastor Sandra Matheson