The Impact of Favor

Nehemiah wept for several days. He “mourned and fasted and prayed.” This was his reaction when he heard the report about conditions in Jerusalem. He heard how “things are not going well” for the Jews who had returned there. How “they are in great trouble and disgrace.” How its walls had been “torn down, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.”

Desperate, Nehemiah turned to God, having no idea what would happen. Regardless of what was to take place, he realized that he needed God’s “favor” in order to have success.

The word here often is translated “mercy” but also can be translated “womb.” This gives us insight into the “favor” of God, for the womb is the place where our lives begin. It is a place of comfort, rest, and security. In the womb, each baby is totally dependent on the mother. The mother carries all the burdens and responsibilities, and she must provide all the food and protection. The baby only can rest and trust.

This helps us understand what the Bible means by favor. Walking in God’s favor means recognizing what He does for us and how much we must depend on Him. It means realizing that our lives are in His hands.

Receiving God’s favor begins with recognition that He is our Creator, the God of the whole Universe. It requires awareness that in order to experience success, happiness, joy, peace, contentment, and fulfillment, we truly depend upon Him.

Today, commit your burdens and challenges to God. Trust in Him. Believe Him for His favor. Be confident that He can open any door and solve any problem. He can give you His peace and comfort. Just as a baby in the womb depends upon the mother, you can depend upon Him…in everything!