Apple of God’s eye

25
Nov

Psalms 44:2-3 – “you with your own hand drove out the nations, but them you planted; you afflicted the peoples, but them you set free; for not by their own sword did they win the land, nor did their own arm save them, but your right hand and your arm,band the light of your face, for you delighted in them.”

In the garden of Eden, our forefathers sinned and were given the consequence of “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground,…” (Genesis 3:19). But then, there is also the concept of “favour”. When we have favour from God, our life will change from labour to favour.
What do we mean by favour?
The secular world has many meanings to describe what they think is “favour”, such as, he/she has ‘it’; an infectious magnetism that draws people; an indefinable trait that makes a person seem special and wanted above all others; a charisma or charm. We usually see this label attached to people like supermodels, athletes, actors, singers, etc.

How must we interpret the word “favour” as believers?
The secular world’s “favour” depends on who the person is and who sees this person and feels that he/she is favoured. It is subjective to the world’s view. But God’s “favour” cannot be compared to this as we are seen through God’s eyes (which sees all) and it is supernatural in nature.
1. Favour includes Joy from the Lord – “The Jews had light and gladness and joy and honor” (Esther 8:16)
When we work in our capacity, we may not be happy during the journey or at the outcome. God’s favour brings gladness and joy ; we are assured of honor by God.
2. Favor encompasses protection – “no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent.” (Psalm 91:10)
Favour is the Shield of protection that God provides – “For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield.” (Psalm 5:12)
The shield deflects weapons in another direction. God protected and placed David on the throne and Israel got its blessing through David. When we pray, than focus on ourselves we ought to ask for God’s grace on others. The Divine blessing comes on us through Christ, the righteous and just One, the Fountain of blessing to all believers. God’s favour is the defense and protection of the church.
3. Favour heightens the inner beauty of a woman – The angel Gabriel announced that Mary was “blessed and highly favoured.” No one can deny the presence of God that radiates from the life of a favoured woman, not even our enemies. God’s favour brings the same declaration over our lives – our inner beauty outruns our physical appearance.
4. Favour ensures peace even from enemies – “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” (Prov 16:7)
Favour brings with it preference – “So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.” (Proverbs 3:4)
Favour is from God and not man. The supernatural blessing of people viewing us through God’s compassion unfolds blessings even from our enemies.

‘A moment of God’s favour is worth more than years of our labour’. Today, instead of your wants, ask God to surround You with His favour. God knows your thoughts but answers your prayers. Ask God the way He will answer you, pray. God, in his favour, will cover you from your enemies and attract all good things. Also, not one can touch or take away what God has in store for you through His favour! Our God is a just and righteous God!!