God’s favor is one of the most powerful benefits of living in Christ.
We don't earn favor. We receive it by God's grace.
Look at the men God favored.
-
Gideon was called a mighty warrior by God: “The LORD is with you, mighty man of valor” (Judges 6).
-
Joseph was favored by his father and later by Pharaoh (Genesis 37:3).
-
Moses and Abraham were promised God's presence: “I will be with you” (Exodus 3:12).
-
The disciples were assured of Christ's constant companionship: “I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 MSG).
How do you get on the A-List of favor? If you are in Christ, you're on the list.
Nehemiah was a slave who prayed for favor. It wasn't just any prayer. It was the bold petition of a man who knew his God. His prayer cut through the noise and gave his life focus.
God answered.
Favor with the king set in motion the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls and altered world history.
How do you pray for favor? Boldly.
“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace [FAVOR] to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
Years ago I stood on an icy Olympic practice run in Calgary, Canada, with world champion skier Jim Hunter. It was dangerous. I was trying not to fall over. Yet, Jim was preparing to race down that mountain course — at speeds exceeding 70 miles per hour.
I asked Jim, “How do you get the guts to do this?” He said, “Paul, I have confidence because I trust my training, my equipment, and my skill. Then, I ski with reckless abandon.”
What would happen if you prayed boldly for favor over the dreams, goals, and visions that God has put into your heart? And then followed Him with reckless abandon?
Trust your God. Trust the equipment of His Word. Trust the gift he’s put inside you. Then race toward it with reckless abandon.
Favor is not just something for “A-list” Bible men, or for men with great fame or charisma. Favor is for every man, including you and me! You're on the A-list!
Pray bold prayers. Receive God’s favor. Get bold!
Your friend, brother, and ally.
Grace and Peace,
Paul Louis Cole
