Seek Favor in 2023 by Lisa Burkhardt Worley

God delights in giving His children favor but we have to ask for it since He is the originator of favor. Psalm 90:17 says, “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” (ESV)

I pray for God’s favor over almost everything I do, whether it’s favor over our family, favor over ministry, or favor over plans. I am already praying for a future written doctoral project where I am laying the groundwork. It will require open doors and God’s favor for this project to be realized.

What favor do you need in the New Year?

The Bible speaks about many who received His favor. Noah found favor (Genesis 6:8). Moses obtained favor (Exodus 33:17). Joseph received God’s favor (Genesis 39:4). Daniel was given favor (Daniel 1:9). Mary found favor (Luke 1:30). Even Jesus was the recipient of His Father’s favor (Luke 2:52).

And this same favor is available for us.

For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord… (Proverbs 8:35).

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 (Proverbs 3:3-4).

Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor (Proverbs 3:34).

I believe God can also remove favor. It might be because we have slipped away from an intimate relationship with Him. Perhaps we have unconfessed sin. Or it could be because He is trying to move us to another place or position. When I begin to see a loss of favor, I pray, Lord, what are you telling me through this experience? Usually, he has another assignment for me, and because I am fiercely loyal, He has to shake things up so I will leave.

So will you seek God’s favor in 2023? His favor has a lifetime guarantee. All He asks is for us is to follow and worship Him.

Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people; praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime…” (Psalm 30:5).