Topical Encyclopedia The concept of being encompassed by the favor of God is a profound theme throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the divine grace and protection bestowed upon the faithful. This favor is not merely a passive blessing but an active, encompassing presence that surrounds the saints, guiding and safeguarding them in their spiritual journey.Biblical Foundation The favor of God is often depicted as a shield or a protective barrier that surrounds the righteous. In Psalm 5:12, the psalmist declares, "For surely You, O LORD, bless the righteous; You surround them with favor as with a shield" . This imagery conveys the idea of God's favor as a defensive and encompassing force, providing security and peace to those who walk in His ways. Divine Protection and Guidance The favor of God is intricately linked to His protection and guidance. In the Old Testament, the Israelites experienced God's favor as they journeyed through the wilderness. Despite their trials, God's presence was a constant source of guidance and provision. In Exodus 33:14, God assures Moses, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" . This promise of divine accompaniment underscores the encompassing nature of God's favor, which leads and sustains His people. Favor in the Lives of the Saints Throughout the Bible, numerous saints experienced the encompassing favor of God in their lives. Joseph, despite being sold into slavery and unjustly imprisoned, found favor in the eyes of God and man. Genesis 39:21 states, "But the LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden" . This favor ultimately led to Joseph's rise to power in Egypt, demonstrating how God's favor can transform circumstances and elevate His faithful servants. Similarly, Daniel and his companions were encompassed by God's favor in Babylon. Despite the challenges of living in a foreign land, they remained steadfast in their faith, and God granted them favor and wisdom. Daniel 1:9 notes, "Now God had granted Daniel favor and compassion from the chief official" . This divine favor enabled them to influence the Babylonian empire and remain faithful to God's commandments. The Favor of God in the New Testament In the New Testament, the favor of God continues to be a vital theme. The early church experienced God's favor as they spread the Gospel and faced persecution. Acts 2:47 describes the early believers as "praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved" . This favor was not only a sign of God's approval but also a catalyst for the growth and expansion of the church. Living in the Favor of God For contemporary believers, living in the favor of God involves walking in obedience, faith, and humility. The favor of God is not earned by human effort but is a gift of grace bestowed upon those who seek Him earnestly. James 4:6 reminds us, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble'" . Humility and submission to God's will are key to experiencing His encompassing favor. In summary, the favor of God is a dynamic and protective force that surrounds the saints, offering guidance, protection, and blessing. It is a testament to God's unwavering love and faithfulness, providing assurance and strength to those who trust in Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 5:12For you, LORD, will bless the righteous; with favor will you compass him as with a shield. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Beloved Pastor's Plea for Unity The Providence of God God's Love to Fallen Man The Saints' Privilege and Profit; (On the Whitsuntide Fast, I. ) The Best Things Work for Good to the Godly The Priesthood of Christ The Former Subject of the Sedition Continued; Also of Fasting... In the Creation of the World, and all Things in It, the True God ... The Last Interview of Paul with the Elders of Ephesus. Resources What does it mean to be saved by grace? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of charis in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of Esther - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Favour of God is the Source of Mercy The Favour of God is the Source of Spiritual Life The Favour of God: Christ the Special Object of The Favour of God: Disappointment of Enemies an Assured Evidence of The Favour of God: Domestic Blessings Traced To The Favour of God: Given in Answer to Prayer The Favour of God: Mercy and Truth Lead To The Favour of God: Plead, in Prayer The Favour of God: Saints: Encompassed By The Favour of God: Saints: Exalted In The Favour of God: Saints: Obtain The Favour of God: Saints: Preserved Through The Favour of God: Saints: Sometimes Tempted to Doubt The Favour of God: Saints: Strengthened By The Favour of God: Saints: Victorious Through The Favour of God: Spiritual Wisdom Leads To The Favour of God: The Virgin Mary The Favour of God: The Wicked: do not Obtain The Favour of God: The Wicked: Uninfluenced By The Favour of God: To be Acknowledged Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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