A Life of Favor

Soon after Solomon became king, God appeared to him in a dream saying, “Ask what you wish Me to give you.” He could have responded in countless ways. Wealth? Power? Pleasures?

Acknowledging that he was “like a little boy,” Solomon asked for “an understanding heart.” That he might “discern between good and evil.” God was pleased, promising to give him what he requested (1 Kings 3:5-15).

One of the first opportunities to apply this wisdom came in his relationship with Hiram, king of Tyre, who had been a friend of David. After Solomon requested help to build the temple, Hiram agreed to do everything he asked. Why? Because God had given him favor.

This is the kind of favor that God can give anyone. How? If our lives are filled with “kindness and truth” the Bible promises we will “find favor” (Proverbs 3:3-4). We will realize that favor is given to people with the attitude of a servant who acts wisely (Proverbs 14:35). It is given to those who please God – people like Noah (Genesis 6:8), Mary (Luke 1:30), and Jesus Himself (Matthew 3:17).

Do you want favor? God can give it to you in your work and finances, your family, and your relationships. How? Humble yourself before Him. Submit to Him. Cry out for His wisdom. Seek first His Kingdom. Walk uprightly. Make your ways pleasing to Him. Move forward confidently in faith. And believe Him for favor.