As we enjoy summer, it’s a good time to use our more relaxed schedule to reflect on what God has been and is doing in our lives. This week’s devotion asks where we are seeking favor – in people or with God:

IN WORD – God’s promise of favor is a little suspicious to us. We’ve known of many faithful servants who did not have a good name, at least in the eyes of their peers. Sometimes they were burned at the stake, sometimes they were tarnished with false accusations, sometimes they faced firing squads. In fact, Jesus assured His disciples they would be hated by many. How, then, can Solomon, if he is at all inspired by God, promise a good name to those who write love and faithfulness on their hearts?
We do not read God’s promises with enough faith or patience. We must first know that the promise of favor with God is immediate. He never withholds His affection from those who love Him faithfully. It’s the second part of this promise we struggle with. He promises favor in the sight of man. Can this be true? Yes, if we’ll read it with eternity in view. Those who love God will have remarkable reputations in the Kingdom. Men will know that God has favored His faithful ones. They may not know it now or even soon. They may not know it before they die. But they will eventually know it. God has promised.

IN DEED – We often get off track because we are determined to have a good reputation among our peers right now. Many a believer has compromised his or her faith because of a desire to be respected by other people more than by God. But love and faithfulness are selective. They cannot be directed toward God and toward our own present reputation at the same time. Compromise is deadly. We must be content—even thrilled—with the idea that God’s favor is ours right now, and man’s will come later—maybe even much later, when eternity is revealed to all. Hearts filled with love and faithfulness will not care. They will be patient. They will know the promise of the One they love. “Faith in God will always be crowned.” —William S. Plummer (in “Walk with God” by Chris Tiegreen)

So, whose favor are you seeking? Do you care more about how many likes or views you get on social media? Or how your heavenly Father sees you?
People spend so much time posting about themselves and what they are doing, but we forget that it’s only the audience of One that has eternal value. How many likes we get is fleeting, but a crown of righteousness lasts forever. If you are in need of reminding, take time this week to reflect on the various encounters between Jesus and the Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes in Matthew 21 – 23. Consider how you treat Jesus and ask the Holy Spirit to help you put Jesus first and foremost above all others. You will surely find great blessing as your heavenly Father bestows His favor on you!

Have a blessed week! From Taipei, Pastor Sam