Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – November 11, 2014
Blessed is the man who listens to me [wisdom], watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. Proverbs 8:34-35
God’s favor is the fruit of friends who find wisdom. They seek wisdom by first watching at the doors of heaven and waiting patiently at the feet of their Savior Jesus. It is humbling to think that each day almighty God is available to commission our cause for Christ. The wisdom of Jesus is what we pursue, because His is pure and profound.
Like Abel, the Almighty looks for the best offering for blessing. Therefore, honor God by offering Him the first fruits of your day. Just as He deserves “first dibs” on your money, so He expects the beginning of your day. Get up and go to God first. There you discover a wealth of wisdom, and under the shadow of your Savior Jesus Christ you receive His favor.
Happiness happens to those who wait for wisdom. His blessing cannot be rushed, so rest in Him. The favor of God is absolutely worth the wait; like the arrival of a newborn, the joy is unspeakable. How many times have we rushed ahead outside the canopy of Christ’s blessing? The Israelites learned to stay under the cloud of God and be lead by faith.
Indeed, there is no spiritual oxygen to sustain those in an “out of favor” environment. It is lifeless and lonely. However, for those on whom their heavenly Father’s favor rests, there is rest. His blessing provides strength for the journey, and perseverance to stay on the trail of trust. Jesus experienced the favor of His heavenly Father when He submitted to public baptism (His confession of faith) and His commitment to public service (His commission to ministry).
What issue of obedience do you need wisdom in, so to continually experience the favor of your heavenly Father? Your life is alive and vibrant because the Lord favors you. You are a favorite of your heavenly Father, because you are learning to wait on Him and to humbly walk with the wise.
The Bible says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8, NASB).
Prayer: How can I make sure to stay “bless-able” and in a position to receive God’s favor?
Related Readings: Genesis 4:4; Exodus 33:12; Luke 2:52; Philippians 3:8
Post/Tweet today: There is rest for those on whom their heavenly Father’s favor rests. #wisdomhunters
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