Lifestyles of the Righteous and Favoredಮಾದರಿ

The Style of Favor

I have a saying in my home that I often quote to my children when I see the favor of God active in an area of their lives. Sometimes I will say the entire statement and other times I will have them finish the sentence. I tell them, “favor ain’t fair, but it’s for the faithful.”

Sure, it’s catchy, but it’s also very true. Here’s what Proverbs 3:3-4 tells us:

“Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.” (ESV)

In this Proverb, King Solomon is giving wisdom to young men, advising them of how to have favor in life. He explains to them that success and favor are found when their lifestyle is marked by steadfast love and faithfulness to God.

What is steadfast love?

It’s a love that displays the heart of God through an unwavering, firm, and passionate pursuit of God. Basically, it’s 1 Corinthians 3:4-8 on full display in our lives. It’s love that is determined, loyal, kind, and merciful.

In addition, faithfulness can be described as our loyalty and commitment to God.

The overflow of steadfast love and faithfulness to God is a heart that seeks the will of God above their own. It is from this posture that we experience the overflow of God's blessings in the form of favor.

Proverbs 3:3-4 is a perfect example of what it looks like for our life to have a style of favor.

Solomon tells the young men to bind steadfast love and faithfulness around their neck, similarly to how one would wear a necklace to enhance the look of an outfit. Jewelry is often used to accentuate or enhance an outfit or attire. It’s as if he is telling these young people, “you may already have great style but you need steadfast love and faithfulness to enhance it. When you add these, watch the favor you will experience in your life.”

As we end our time together, I want to remind you that a life surrendered to God equally means a life that’s been sacrificed for God. This Christian lifestyle isn’t glamorous to this world, but it’s glorious to the world we truly belong to—heaven.

If you enjoyed this reading plan by Rachel G. Scott, you'll love the complementary resource she created called 10 Practical Steps to a Life of Righteousness and Favor. Grab your copy HERE.