And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favor with God (Luke 1:30, KJV)
How to find favor with God? Read on!
You might raise an eyebrow at the notion of “how to find favor with God,” especially when we understand grace as unearned favor in Christ. When the angel Gabriel delivered his message to Mary, he announced, “Thou hast found favor with God.” What does this reveal?
Favor signifies acts of kindness or goodwill toward someone. It is a disposition toward someone that prompts one to do something kind or good for them. Naturally, can our actions prompt someone to be kind to us? In human terms, yes. However, with God’s grace, the dynamic changes.
Mary’s experience provides a textbook example of God’s grace in action. Gabriel announced that Mary had already received God’s favor—a heavenly decision she wasn’t even aware of. Did Mary do something to deserve this favor? No, she didn’t. God’s character and divine plan drove this favor, not Mary’s actions. She discovered that she was the beloved recipient of the Father’s favor.
Like Mary, we also receive favor from Christ without earning it,
“So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.” (Ephesians 1:6, NLT).
As Mary came to realize and accept God’s favor, we, too, should recognize and believe in God’s grace. Finding favor is one thing; receiving and experiencing its impact is another. For example, Jesus brought favor to all of humanity, yet not everyone received salvation. The Gospel must be accepted; the Word must be received and acted upon for any results. Similarly, you’ll only benefit from God’s spiritual, health-related, or financial favor if you know it, believe it, and act according to His Word.
Meditate
Reflect on Luke 1:30 above.
Apply the Word
To profoundly impact your life, accept that, like Mary, you’ve already received God’s favor. This belief will transform how you see yourself and your relationship with God.
Pray
Express gratitude to the Father for the remarkable favor He has granted us.
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