The term "favourest" is an archaic form of the word "favor," often used in older English translations of the Bible. It denotes the act of showing preferential treatment or kindness, often implying divine grace or approval. In the context of Scripture, favor is a significant theme, reflecting God's benevolence and mercy towards individuals and nations.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Divine Favor: In the Bible, God's favor is frequently associated with His blessings and protection. It is often granted to those who are righteous and obedient to His commandments. For instance, Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord due to his righteousness amidst a corrupt generation (Genesis 6:8: "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.").

2. Favor and Leadership: Many biblical leaders were recipients of God's favor, which enabled them to fulfill their divine missions. Moses, for example, was favored by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 33:17: "So the LORD said to Moses, 'I will do this very thing you have asked, for you have found favor in My sight, and I know you by name.'").

3. Favor and Wisdom: King Solomon is another prominent figure who received God's favor, particularly in the form of wisdom. His request for wisdom to govern the people was met with divine approval, resulting in unparalleled wisdom and prosperity (1 Kings 3:10-13).

4. Favor and Redemption: The concept of favor is also closely linked to redemption and salvation. Mary, the mother of Jesus, was highly favored by God to bear the Messiah, highlighting the role of divine favor in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan (Luke 1:28: "The angel appeared to her and said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.'").

5. Human Favor: While divine favor is paramount, the Bible also acknowledges the importance of favor among humans. Proverbs 3:3-4 advises, "Let loving devotion and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man."

Theological Implications

Theologically, favor is understood as an unmerited gift from God, reflecting His grace and love. It is not something that can be earned through human effort but is bestowed according to God's sovereign will. This understanding underscores the importance of humility and gratitude in the believer's life, recognizing that all blessings and successes are ultimately due to God's favor.

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to seek God's favor through prayer, obedience, and a life of righteousness. While favor is a gift, the Bible suggests that living in alignment with God's will can position individuals to receive His blessings. The pursuit of favor should not be for selfish gain but for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

In summary, "favourest" encapsulates a profound biblical principle of divine grace and approval, integral to the narrative of Scripture and the life of faith.

Psalm XVII.
... 8. "Who savest them that hope in Thee from such as resist Thy right hand:"
from such as resist the favour, whereby Thou favourest Me. ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm xvii.htm

Psalm XLI.
... Raise Me up, and I will requite them.". 12. "By this I know that Thou favourest
Me, that Mine enemies shall not triumph over Me" (ver.11.) Because the Jews did ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm xli.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... them. 'By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemies doth
not triumph over me' (Psalm 41:11). And is this all? No. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

Favourest (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Favourest (2 Occurrences). Psalms 41:11 By this I know
that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me. (KJV). ...
/f/favourest.htm - 6k

Favoured (8 Occurrences)

/f/favoured.htm - 8k

Favoureth (1 Occurrence)

/f/favoureth.htm - 6k

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