“When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, 29 Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days. 30 The Philistine commanders continued to go out to battle, and as often as they did, David met with more success than the rest of Saul’s officers, and his name became well known.” 1 Samuel 18.28-30
It did not matter what Saul did—God favored David. Why? Perhaps it was because David favored the Lord. Up to this point, David had not sinned against the Lord. He was a young man who loved God and obeyed His commands. As a result, God placed His favor upon David.
Finally, after Saul attempted to harm David and David came out victorious, Saul realized “that the Lord was with David.” This is no small statement. For God to be with a person is significant. In contrast, the Lord was not with Saul, because, as I inferred earlier, Saul had sinned against the Lord in many ways.
As a result, Saul feared David and “remained his enemy the rest of his days.”
What does it mean for us to find favor with God? All of us have this ability if we trust in Jesus. This doesn’t mean everything will turn out like butterflies and roses, but things will go as they should. Sometimes we see this favor in personal or professional success. David’s favor manifested in success in battle, friendships with Jonathan and others, and even romantic attention. David loved God, and God loved David; therefore, everything David touched succeeded.
To be in a right relationship with Christ is key. Run from sin and run to the Father. Then see what God does. See how He blesses you, lends you His favor, and fills you with a spiritual closeness that you may not have experienced before. Finding favor is no more than committing your ways to God, allowing Him to direct your steps, guide your life, and fill you with His love.
“O Lord God, You are good. Thank You for loving us, for calling us Your own, and for helping us to be the people You have called us to be. We will face difficulties and enemies, but friendship with You triumphs over all. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me with Your favor. Help me serve You in all ways so that I reflect Your glory. I love You, Lord, and praise Your name. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen.