This week I have been reading through the book of Exodus. It was actually prompted by last weekend’s message and some references to God’s provision in Psalm 111. In Exodus 33, at least five times it is mentioned that Moses had found favor with God. Notice, it doesn’t say that Moses was asking God for “favors” but rather that God had granted him favor.

Have you ever had the opportunity to be around someone experiencing the favor of the Lord? I had the unexpected opportunity to spend some time with a friend, Ed Newton, who was invited to speak at Bradenton Christian School this week. As we sat over lunch and caught up, he shared the story of a mutual friend and how God had granted he and his family favor. And as Ed was sharing, Exodus 33 was fresh on my mind and I couldn’t help but be thankful that I believe God’s favor is upon my friend. God is using Him to speak His Word into the lives of hundreds of students.

So today, I have been thinking about what are the markers in a person’s life when they experience the favor of God…

• Their relationship with God is fresh! It’s not a past-tense relationship.  They actively seek to walk empowered by the Holy Spirit daily.
• They are passionate about the right things. Let’s face it, we can grow passionate about a variety of things.  But those who find favor with God, are passionate about the Holy Scriptures and the souls of people.
• They are real. I have noticed those who have found favor with God (not salvation mind you) are those who are honest about their struggles, their sin, and the freedom they have found in Christ through their journey.

Let us renew our commitment to walk in obedience before the Lord and pray for His favor upon our lives.