Obtaining Favor

It is the dream of students and interns, the desire of both staff and managers. It is the quest to get ahead—to win promotion and advance in a career.

In the world, many feel that the secret to this kind of advancement is to be a “toady.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a “toady” as “one who flatters in the hope of gaining favors.”

This word has its roots from those who were “toad-eaters.” In 18th century England, these men were employed to eat a toad that was believed to be poisonous. Then, based on this deception, their employers would dazzle audiences by “expelling” the poison. Being a “toady” became synonymous with being deceptive.

Many assume that this kind of flattering is acceptable and even necessary for success. They think the only thing that matters is getting ahead. No matter what it takes, they strive to win a promotion or accomplish a goal.

With this philosophy, many become willing to bend the truth. If necessary, they’re willing to lie and cheat…to look for opportunities to gain credit…or to blame others for problems. Such people may “flatter with their lips but harbor deception in their hearts” (Psalm 12:2).

These strategies may seem to succeed in the eyes of the world. But the Bible urges us to remember how easily we can lose perspective. As Jesus warned, we can focus on gaining the world, while we’re in the process of losing our own soul (Matthew 16:26).

However, the favor that really counts comes from God Himself. If we want to receive His favor, we will not be flatterers or schemers. Instead, we will seek to be “good”—pleasing Him and doing what is right in His sight.

Today, make it your goal to please God in everything you do (Galatians 1:10). People around you may change their minds, but you always can count on Him. Believe Him for favor. Trust Him for blessings.