Life can be really hard sometimes. You may face problems that seem unfair or too big to handle. But even when things are tough, God is with you! He has given you favor – his blessing and goodness – to help you through the storm.
What is Favor?
Favor means receiving God’s supernatural help and advantages. Favor is God’s hand of protection shielding you.
You have favor even when life gets rocky. Favor is pushing back the darkness so you can keep going. God’s favor surrounds you all the time, not just when things are good. As Psalm 5:12 says, “Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.”
Here are some things you can do to receive favor from God:
1. Have faith and trust in God. Hebrews 11:6 says “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
3. Walk in love. Proverbs 3:3-4 says “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”
5. Give generously. Proverbs 11:25 assures us “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
6. Pursue wisdom. Proverbs 8:35 says “For those who find me (wisdom) find life and receive favor from the Lord.”
8. Pray and seek God fervently. 2 Corinthians 6:2 reminds us “For he says, ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”
9. Be faithful and serve God. Psalm 5:12 declares “For you, Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor you will surround him as with a shield.”
10. Repent of any known sin. Acts 3:19 assures us “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
Favor Helped God’s People Escape
Imagine being trapped between huge walls of water with the bad guys chasing you! That’s what happened to the Israelites when God was bringing them out of the land of Egypt.
The King Pharoah and his army was chasing them. The people panicked at the scary situation. But God made the waters split so they could walk through on dry land. God’s favor made a way even when it seemed impossible! Exodus 14 tells this story.
The people only realized later how God’s favor had saved them. In the moment, they were too worried to see it. But God was holding the water back the whole time. He protected them even when they were afraid. As Isaiah 41:10 assures us, “So do not fear, for I am with you.”
You Have Favor in Your Storm Too
When life gets overwhelming, remember God has given you favor. His blessings and goodness are fighting for you even when you can’t see it. The problems are temporary. Favor will carry you through! According to Lamentations 3:22-23, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning.”
Focus on God’s Power, Not Your Problems
It’s easy to focus on all the bad things that could happen and worry. But God is more powerful than any problem! He wants to help you, not hurt you. He will defeat every enemy and obstacle in His perfect timing.
Don’t get discouraged by challenges. God is pushing back the darkness. He is working for your good, even when you can’t see it. As Romans 8:28 promises, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”
Your Problems Are Passing, Your Promise is Coming
The Israelites escaped the army and made it to the Promised Land. Your challenges are only temporary too. The addiction, sickness, loneliness – that is not your destiny! God has freedom, healing and joy in store.
The enemy wouldn’t fight so hard if you weren’t close to your breakthrough. God has amazing things planned for your future. Keep believing! According to Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'”
God Has a Purpose for Your Pain
We don’t always understand why we go through difficulties. But you can trust God knows what He is doing. He wants to use your adversity to prepare you for greater things.
God walked with the Israelites through the scary sea so He could deliver them from enemies and lead them into their purpose. Let God use your hardship to bring you into His best! As James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Key Takeaways:
- You have favor, God’s supernatural help, even during storms
- Focus on God’s power, not your problems
- Challenges are temporary – breakthroughs are coming!
- Trust God’s purpose, even when you face pain
- Your problems will pass, and God’s promises will come to pass
Going through tough times isn’t easy. But remember, you have Almighty God fighting for you! He will bring you out stronger. Keep believing and thanking Him for your favor. Your breakthrough is on the way!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I really have God’s favor?
Look for signs of supernatural help or protection even in difficulties. Favor often comes in unexpected blessings and undeserved breakthroughs. God’s peace in the storm is also evidence of His favor.
What if I can’t feel God’s presence in my hardship?
God promises He will never leave you. Faith assures us of His presence, even when we cannot tangibly feel it (2 Corinthians 5:7). Pray for awareness of His comfort, strength and favor.
Why does God allow us to go through challenges?
God can use every struggle to strengthen our faith, develop our character, and prepare us for bigger purposes. Our trials produce perseverance and maturity (James 1:2-4).
How can I have joy in the midst of adversity?
Focus on the truth of God’s Word and His faithfulness rather than your circumstances. Thank Him that the trial is temporary, but His victory is eternal. This eternal perspective brings joy.
How do I stop worrying about problems?
Pray and meditate on scriptures about God’s power and love. Remind yourself He is greater than anything you face. Lean into His peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).
