The concept of favor holds significant importance throughout the Bible, reflecting God’s benevolent disposition towards His people. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, scriptures abound with narratives, teachings, and promises that underscore the multifaceted nature of divine favor.
These verses illuminate the principles, conditions, and blessings associated with seeking and experiencing God’s favor in various aspects of life.
Let us explore together the richness and depth of what the Bible reveals about favor and its profound implications for believers.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Waiting (with Explanation)
Bible Verses on Favour
Psalm 5:12 (ESV)
For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield.
This verse beautifully illustrates the idea that divine favor acts as a protective shield for those who walk in righteousness.
The blessing of favor is depicted as a covering, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God’s favor in shielding and guarding the righteous.
Proverbs 3:4 (NIV)
Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.
In this wisdom literature, we learn that living a life guided by God’s wisdom results in not only favor in God’s sight but also in the eyes of others.
The linkage between wisdom, favor, and a good reputation underscores the interconnectedness of one’s spiritual and social life.
Luke 2:52 (ESV)
And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
The verse highlights the holistic growth of Jesus, emphasizing the correlation between wisdom, physical development, and favor.
It serves as a model for believers, indicating that growth in all aspects of life can attract divine favor and positive regard from others.
Esther 2:17 (NIV)
Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins.
Esther’s story provides a vivid example of how divine favor can result in significant influence and favor from others.
Esther’s favor with the king paved the way for her unique role in the salvation of her people, showcasing the transformative power of divine favor.
Proverbs 8:35 (NLT)
For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord.
This proverb connects the pursuit of wisdom with the reception of divine favor.
It suggests that a life oriented toward the wisdom of God is inherently intertwined with the experience of God’s favor, portraying favor as a natural outcome of a wise and God-seeking life.
Psalm 90:17 (ESV)
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!
This prayerful verse echoes the longing for God’s favor to accompany and prosper the endeavors of the righteous.
The repetition emphasizes the earnest desire for God’s favor to be the foundation and support for every aspect of life and work.
Isaiah 30:18 (NIV)
Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore, he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
This verse reveals the compassionate nature of God, expressing His desire to extend favor to His people. The idea of waiting for the Lord suggests that divine favor often unfolds in His perfect timing, emphasizing patience and trust in the process.
God’s desire to be gracious and compassionate underscores the loving nature of His favor. The mention of justice assures that divine favor is not arbitrary but rooted in God’s righteous character.
The call to wait for the Lord emphasizes the importance of patience and trust, recognizing that God’s timing is integral to the manifestation of His favor.
Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV)
The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
This beautiful verse depicts God’s favor as an expression of joy and love. It paints a vivid picture of a God who not only saves but delights in His people with gladness and sings over them with exultant joy.
The imagery in this verse is rich with the profound emotions of God towards His people. God’s favor is not only about salvation but is accompanied by genuine joy and love.
The idea of God singing over His people emphasizes the depth of His delight, creating a powerful image of divine favor as an intimate and joyous relationship.
James 4:6 (NIV)
But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
This New Testament verse contrasts divine favor with pride, highlighting that humility is the pathway to receiving God’s grace and favor.
The juxtaposition of God opposing the proud and showing favor to the humble emphasizes the moral dimension of divine favor.
Humility becomes the conduit through which God’s grace and favor flow, revealing that a posture of humility is essential for experiencing the richness of God’s favor.
Romans 8:28 (ESV)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
This verse assures believers that divine favor operates through all circumstances for the ultimate good of those who love God and align themselves with His purpose.
The assurance in this verse extends beyond mere favor to the concept of God actively working in all things for the benefit of His people.
Divine favor is not limited to favorable circumstances but is embedded in the overarching plan of God for those who love Him, providing comfort and hope even in challenging situations.
Ephesians 1:6 (NLT)
So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.
The language of pouring out signifies the abundance and generosity of God’s favor. It is not a mere trickle but a lavish outpouring, emphasizing the richness of God’s grace bestowed upon those who are in Christ.
This verse underscores the communal aspect, reminding believers that they are recipients of divine favor as members of God’s family.
1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.
This verse echoes the theme of humility, suggesting that divine favor is closely linked to a humble submission to God’s authority.
The call to humble oneself under God’s mighty hand sets the stage for divine favor. It implies that a humble posture is not a sign of weakness but positions individuals to receive the uplifting favor of God.
The phrase “in due time” emphasizes the importance of patience and trust in the unfolding of God’s favor.
2 Corinthians 9:8 (ESV)
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
The language of “all grace abound” conveys the extravagant generosity of God’s favor. It goes beyond meeting needs to the point of abundance, enabling believers to excel in every good work.
This verse emphasizes that divine favor is not just for personal benefit but positions individuals to be agents of positive impact in the world.
Acts 7:46 (NIV)
David found favor with God and asked for the privilege of building a dwelling place for the God of Jacob.
David’s favor with God is highlighted as the basis for him aspiring to build a dwelling place for God.
This verse underscores that divine favor can lead to opportunities beyond one’s imagination, allowing believers to dream big and pursue meaningful contributions to God’s kingdom.
Psalm 84:11 (NIV)
For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.
This verse paints a vivid picture of God as a source of light, protection, and favor. It suggests that those who walk blamelessly before God receive not only favor but also honor, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of divine blessings.
The metaphorical imagery of God as both a sun and shield encapsulates the dual nature of His provision – illuminating with favor and protecting as a shield.
The promise that no good thing is withheld from the blameless underscores the trustworthiness of God’s character in generously bestowing blessings upon those who align their lives with His principles.
Luke 1:28 (ESV)
And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!”
These words, spoken to Mary by the angel Gabriel, affirm her favored status in being chosen to bear the Messiah. This verse illustrates that divine favor often involves being selected for a unique and significant purpose in God’s plan.
The salutation “O favored one” communicates the extraordinary nature of Mary’s role in God’s redemptive plan.
This verse reminds believers that divine favor may manifest in unexpected and extraordinary callings, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and embracing God’s unique assignments.
Proverbs 22:1 (NLT)
Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
This proverb underscores the value of favor in terms of reputation and esteem, suggesting that a good name is more valuable than material wealth.
The prioritization of a good reputation over material wealth highlights the enduring impact of favor. It suggests that divine favor extends beyond immediate circumstances to shape one’s reputation, influencing how individuals are perceived by others.
This verse encourages believers to prioritize virtues that bring lasting honor and favor.
Genesis 39:21 (NIV)
the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.
Joseph’s experience in prison illustrates that divine favor is not limited by circumstances. Even in challenging situations, God’s presence and favor can be evident.
Joseph’s story in prison emphasizes that God’s favor is not contingent on external conditions. Even in confinement, the Lord’s presence remained with Joseph, leading to favor with the prison warden.
This narrative encourages believers to recognize that divine favor can transcend challenging environments, bringing about unexpected blessings.
Psalm 30:5 (NLT)
For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.
This psalm expresses the enduring nature of God’s favor, contrasting it with temporary hardships and emphasizing the eventual arrival of joy.
The contrast between the fleeting nature of hardship and the enduring nature of God’s favor provides comfort and hope. This verse assures believers that, despite moments of sorrow, divine favor persists throughout a lifetime.
The imagery of joy arriving with the morning reinforces the idea that divine favor brings about a new dawn of joy after times of darkness.
Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
This verse from the Sermon on the Mount emphasizes that seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness is the key to experiencing divine favor and provision.
The prioritization of seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness sets the foundation for divine favor. This verse teaches believers that when they align their priorities with God’s, His favor extends to providing for their needs.
It reinforces the principle that seeking God’s agenda leads to the unfolding of His favor in various aspects of life.
Acts 10:34-35 (NLT)
Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.”
Peter’s declaration dismantles any notion of exclusivity in divine favor. It emphasizes that God’s favor is not bound by cultural or national boundaries but is extended to all who revere Him and live in righteousness.
This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the inclusivity of God’s favor, promoting unity among believers from every corner of the world.
Psalm 44:3 (NIV)
It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them.
This psalm acknowledges that success and victory come not through human strength alone but through divine favor and love. The imagery of God’s right hand symbolizes His mighty intervention on behalf of His people.
This verse humbly recognizes that human efforts are insufficient without God’s intervention. The emphasis on God’s right hand and the light of His face conveys the idea that divine favor involves the active participation of God in the triumphs of His people.
It underscores the importance of acknowledging God’s role in achievements and victories.
Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
This well-known verse from Jeremiah reassures believers that God’s plans for them are marked by goodness, hope, and a promising future.
God’s declaration of knowing His plans signifies divine omniscience and purpose. The assurance that His plans are for good and not disaster provides comfort, highlighting the benevolent nature of divine favor.
This verse encourages believers to trust in God’s intentional and hopeful designs for their lives.
Proverbs 16:7 (ESV)
When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
This proverb illustrates that divine favor extends to the realm of relationships, bringing about reconciliation and peace even with adversaries when one’s ways align with God’s will.
The promise of enemies being at peace underscores the transformative power of divine favor in interpersonal dynamics. It suggests that a life pleasing to the Lord can influence even those who oppose, fostering an atmosphere of reconciliation and harmony.
This verse emphasizes that divine favor transcends personal well-being to impact the relationships of those who seek to please God.
Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
This New Testament passage emphasizes that divine favor is intertwined with the heart’s dedication to work as if it were for the Lord, promising a heavenly reward.
The call to work wholeheartedly for the Lord establishes a link between dedication in earthly endeavors and the assurance of divine favor.
The promise of receiving an inheritance from the Lord reinforces the idea that earthly efforts, when done with a focus on serving Christ, result in heavenly favor and rewards. This passage encourages a perspective shift, viewing work as a means of worship and divine service.
Psalm 37:4 (NLT)
Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
This psalm conveys the principle that aligning one’s delight with God leads to the fulfillment of personal desires through divine favor.
The invitation to take delight in the Lord suggests that divine favor is intricately connected to the alignment of desires with God’s will. This verse implies that when individuals find joy and satisfaction in their relationship with God, He responds by granting the desires of their hearts.
It encourages believers to prioritize intimacy with God, trusting that His favor will naturally extend to the fulfillment of their heartfelt desires.
Luke 6:38 (NIV)
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
This teaching from Jesus emphasizes the principle of generosity leading to divine favor, using the imagery of giving and receiving in abundance.
Jesus’ words highlight the reciprocal nature of divine favor in response to generosity. The imagery of a good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over paints a vivid picture of the overflowing blessings that result from a generous lifestyle.
This verse encourages believers to approach life with an open and giving heart, trusting that God’s favor responds in kind.
2 Timothy 4:7-8 (ESV)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
In this passage, Paul reflects on his life as a faithful servant, anticipating the crown of righteousness as a reward for his perseverance and commitment to the faith.
Paul’s triumphant declaration captures the essence of divine favor as a reward for a life lived in faithful service to God.
The imagery of a crown of righteousness bestowed by the righteous judge underscores the concept of divine favor as a culmination of a faithful journey. This passage inspires believers to persevere in their faith, anticipating the heavenly reward of God’s favor.
Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)
And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
This verse from the book of Hebrews emphasizes the crucial role of faith in pleasing God and receiving His rewards. Faith involves a deep conviction in God’s existence and a sincere pursuit of Him, laying the foundation for divine favor.
Hebrews underscores the significance of faith as the key to divine favor. Faith is not merely a belief in God’s existence but an active, earnest seeking of Him.
The promise of reward for those who diligently pursue God encourages believers to cultivate a vibrant faith, recognizing that it is through faith that they please God and open themselves to His favor.
Philippians 4:19 (NLT)
And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.
Paul’s words to the Philippians express the assurance that God, who provides for his needs, will also abundantly supply the needs of others. The source of this provision is the glorious riches found in a relationship with Christ Jesus.
This verse encapsulates the principle of divine provision through a connection with Christ. The phrase “glorious riches” suggests the abundance available to believers through their relationship with Jesus.
It emphasizes that God’s favor extends to the material and spiritual needs of His people, illustrating the holistic nature of divine provision.
John 15:7 (ESV)
If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
Jesus’ teaching in the Gospel of John emphasizes the connection between abiding in Him, internalizing His words, and the assurance that prayers aligned with His will will be granted.
This verse illuminates the relationship between intimacy with Christ and the fulfillment of desires through prayer. The condition of abiding in Him and His words abiding in believers underscores the importance of a close and obedient relationship with Jesus.
The promise that whatever is asked will be done highlights the concept of divine favor responding to a life deeply rooted in Christ, where desires align with His will.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Waiting (with Explanation)
What Does the Bible Say About Favour?
The concept of favor is recurrent throughout the Bible, and it encompasses various dimensions of God’s benevolence toward humanity.
Here are some key themes the Bible explores regarding favor:
Divine Favor and Righteousness: Numerous verses emphasize that God’s favor is closely tied to righteousness. For instance, Psalm 5:12 (ESV) states, “For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield.” This suggests that a life lived in alignment with God’s principles attracts His favor.
Favor and Humility: The Bible frequently links favor with humility. James 4:6 (NIV) asserts, “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” This underscores the idea that a humble heart is receptive to divine favor.
Divine Favor in Adversity: Stories like Joseph’s in Genesis highlight that God’s favor is not contingent on favorable circumstances. Even in adversity, as seen in Genesis 39:21 (NIV), “the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.”
A Short Prayer on Favour
Heavenly Father,
In your boundless grace and mercy, we come before you with grateful hearts. We seek your divine favor to be upon us in all aspects of our lives. May your favor surround us like a shield, guiding our steps and illuminating our path.
Grant us the wisdom to walk in righteousness, the humility to acknowledge our dependence on you, and the faith to trust in your perfect plans. In moments of challenge, let your favor be our strength, and in times of joy, let it be a reminder of your abundant goodness.
Lord, may our lives reflect the generosity of your favor, prompting acts of kindness and love toward others. We surrender our desires and ambitions to your will, trusting that your favor will lead us to where we need to be.
We thank you, Lord, for the assurance that your favor is not earned but freely given to those who seek you earnestly. May we be vessels of your favor, shining your light in a world that needs your love.
In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.