THE FAVOUR FACTOR
The passage from Psalm 44, specifically verses 1 to 3, reflects a profound acknowledgment of God’s historical interventions on behalf of His people. The psalmist recalls the testimonies passed down through generations, emphasizing that the victories achieved by their ancestors were not the result of their own strength or military prowess. Instead, it was through God’s mighty hand and the radiance of His presence that the nations were driven out and the land was granted to them. This recollection serves as a reminder of divine favor and intervention, highlighting the importance of recognizing and honoring the source of their blessings.
As we gather this evening, let us approach this moment with gratitude and reverence for the transformative power of God’s word. We invite the Holy Spirit to move among us, facilitating an atmosphere where understanding and revelation can flourish, free from any hindrance. In this spirit, we declare victory over any opposing forces and anticipate healing, transformation, and deliverance for all present. Tonight’s teaching will focus on the grace of favor, a concept rooted in the belief that faith is cultivated through the hearing of God’s word. Therefore, I encourage everyone to remain engaged and open to receiving the grace that is available, as we delve into the insights of Psalm 44, which serves as both a meditation and a musical expression of faith.
He recounted that we have been informed, our ancestors have shared with us the stories of Your remarkable actions throughout their lives, how You liberated them and inflicted judgment upon the nations. You safeguarded them while scattering others for their benefit. The question arises: what did God do for our forefathers? He granted them ownership, bestowing upon them the land, not through their own might or weaponry, but rather through divine favor. The Scriptures indicate that there are various means to acquire land, yet the most common thought might be to engage in conflict and seize it. However, the Bible reveals that for a covenant people, the acquisition is not typically achieved through warfare. God, as a God of favor, interacts with His people in a unique manner, consistently demonstrating His grace and kindness.
An intriguing aspect of favor is that it can be present without individuals being cognizant of it. I recall reading a book by Dennis Waitley, titled “Being the Best,” over a decade ago, where he discussed the concept of the Reticular Activating System (RAS). This system, located in the human brain, functions to filter out anything that may cause irritation or discomfort, allowing individuals to remain unaware of certain stimuli. To illustrate this, I remember visiting a friend who lived near the airport in Lagos. While sitting in their living room, the noise from landing planes was quite pronounced. I inquired how they managed to live in such an environment, and my friend simply responded, indicating that they had grown accustomed to it.
The conversation highlighted the remarkable function of the Reticular Activating System (RAS) in filtering sensory information, which allows individuals to focus on what is relevant to them. When I inquired whether the surrounding noise was bothersome, the response was that they had grown accustomed to it, illustrating how the RAS effectively sifts through distractions. This mechanism not only helps in ignoring irrelevant stimuli but also enhances awareness of specific objects or experiences. For example, after purchasing a red dress, one becomes acutely aware of other red dresses in their vicinity, often comparing them to their own. This heightened awareness is akin to my experience when I was in the market for a Honda Accord; suddenly, it seemed as though every vehicle on the road was a Honda Accord, despite my previous oblivion to them.
This phenomenon underscores the RAS’s role in shaping our perceptions based on our expectations and anticipations. It serves to amplify our recognition of what we have already registered in our minds while simultaneously filtering out what we do not wish to remember. This principle can be particularly beneficial for believers who are part of a covenant with God. By consciously leveraging the RAS to recognize and anticipate favor, individuals can open themselves to greater blessings and opportunities. Many people navigate their lives unaware of the divine covenant they are part of, often approaching challenges with a mindset of struggle. In contrast, those who understand and utilize the RAS can shift their perspective, expecting favor and abundance in their endeavors, thereby aligning themselves with the blessings that God has in store for them.
When engaging with individuals in Nigeria, one might inquire about their well-being, to which they often respond with a phrase indicative of their relentless pursuit of success, stating, “we’re hustling.” This response reflects a broader cultural context where the concept of hustling is deeply ingrained in the societal fabric. Upon further questioning about their state, they might reply, “not so bad,” prompting one to ponder the implications of such a statement. It raises the question of whether one should accept a state of being that is merely “not so bad,” especially when the expectation for those who are part of a covenant community is to experience a life filled with divine favor. When the covenant is activated in one’s mind, it triggers the reticular activating system, allowing individuals to perceive the abundance of favor surrounding them. This heightened awareness fosters a consciousness of God’s presence and intervention in their lives, leading to an anticipation that God will indeed come through for them.
Throughout biblical narratives, it is evident that God consistently distinguishes His people through favor. Figures such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob exemplify this divine favor in their lives. For instance, when Abraham arrived in Egypt, he was met with favor, and similarly, Isaac experienced favor upon his arrival. Jacob, despite his tumultuous journey, ultimately received favor, notably in the acquisition of his brother’s birthright, which he obtained through a strategic exchange. Even in adversity, such as Joseph’s imprisonment, God’s favor set him apart as a distinguished prisoner, highlighting the covenant’s significance in the lives of His people. The account in Exodus 12:36 illustrates this further, as the Israelites were instructed to request goods from the Egyptians, and they received them due to God’s favor. This divine favor is a powerful force, and it is essential to embrace the belief that one can receive blessings through it. As the message resonates, it is a time for favor, and the call to acknowledge this truth is paramount.
It is declared that the moment for favor has arrived, as articulated in Psalm 102, verse 13, which states that the Lord will rise and show mercy to Zion, affirming that the appointed time for her favor is now. It is essential to acknowledge this moment and proclaim it with conviction; indeed, it is a time of favor for each individual. The Elevation Church has consistently embodied this spirit of favor since its inception. I recall delivering a message during our very first service, aptly titled “The Favor Factor.” In that series, I recounted an experience from an evening when we were preparing for a service at Magnolia Hall on Lagos Island. On that occasion, a wedding was taking place, and the venue was adorned with exquisite decorations, likely due to the affluence of the couple involved. As we awaited the conclusion of the ceremony to set up for our service, an extraordinary event unfolded.
After the wedding, a member of our team, Brother Wale Siyanbola, approached the woman responsible for the decorations. To our astonishment, she expressed her desire to donate everything in the hall to the church. This act of unexpected generosity exemplified the unusual favor we experienced that day, as we were able to prepare the venue without any additional effort, benefiting from the beautiful decorations left behind. Attendees of our service the following day were left in awe, questioning the source of our newfound decor. This incident serves as a testament to the consistent manifestation of favor in my life. I recently shared with others how divine favor often positions individuals in the right company for blessings. In my own journey, even before I understood the concept of mentorship, God orchestrated my placement alongside my pastor, illustrating how favor can guide one toward significant opportunities and growth.
In later years, I came to understand that numerous individuals sought to establish a mentorship relationship with him, while for some of us, it was merely a matter of divine favor that allowed us to be in his presence. There exists a profound principle regarding the operation of favor; when it manifests in one’s life, it positions an individual to be in the right place at the right time. This notion is not merely rhetorical; it is grounded in biblical truth. For instance, in 1 Samuel 2:26, it is stated that Samuel found favor with God, and similarly, in Luke 2:52, it is noted that Jesus, as a child, grew in favor with both God and man. If Jesus required favor to fulfill His mission, it stands to reason that I, too, must seek and cultivate favor in my life. As a follower of Christ and a participant in the covenant, I must remain acutely aware of the favor that God wishes to bestow upon me.
Furthermore, the concept of favor is intricately linked to the covenant relationship one has with God. The Scriptures illustrate that throughout biblical history, individuals who walked closely with God invariably experienced various forms of favor. For example, when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary in Luke 1:30 that she was highly favored by God, it underscored the significance of divine selection through favor. It is essential to recognize that favor is not merely a pleasant notion but a tangible outcome of one’s covenant with God. Psalm 44 emphasizes that it was due to their covenant with God that the people experienced His favor, allowing them to claim their inheritance without the need for warfare, despite having the means to do so. This understanding of favor as a covenantal blessing is crucial for anyone wishing to engage deeply with the teachings of faith.
The possession of land does not necessitate martial arts skills, despite the fact that some individuals may be fighters. According to biblical teachings, it is stated that God granted them this land through His favor. This concept of favor is pivotal; it is essential to acknowledge and affirm one’s reception of it. The dynamics of favor can be likened to the relationship between the sun and the moon. The moon does not emit its own light; rather, it reflects the sunlight when positioned correctly. Similarly, when one enters into a covenant with God, the key requirement is to be in the right position for God’s light to shine upon them, allowing them to experience His favor consistently. It is crucial to declare one’s intention to align with divine purpose, as this alignment is fundamental to receiving God’s blessings.
Furthermore, favor is not static; it has the potential to grow and increase over time.
The Bible illustrates this through the example of Jesus, who grew in favor. This suggests that regardless of one’s current experience with favor—whether one feels a lack of it or has numerous testimonies—there is always an opportunity for enhancement. God desires to elevate your experiences of favor to unprecedented levels. It is important to recognize that favor is essential for achieving remarkable success that transcends mere skills, financial resources, or capital. Many individuals embarking on new ventures often focus solely on the need for capital. However, as Dr. David Oyedepo humorously pointed out, the pursuit of capital alone is insufficient; it is the favor of God that truly facilitates success.
The essence of divine favor is paramount in attracting the blessings of God into one’s life. Many individuals confine themselves to a narrow pursuit of material wealth, failing to recognize that when God’s favor is present, it can manifest in extraordinary ways. For instance, one may receive all that they desire without the need for financial expenditure, as divine favor can bring forth resources and opportunities that surpass monetary means. I have shared numerous testimonies regarding seemingly trivial matters, such as decorations, which illustrate how favor can transform ordinary situations into extraordinary blessings. The abundance of favor can provide what one might have spent years laboring to acquire, underscoring its significance for achieving remarkable success that transcends mere skill or financial resources.
Moreover, an excessive focus on personal abilities, physical appearance, or social connections can inadvertently hinder the flow of God’s favor in one’s life. It is crucial to remember the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 9:11, which reminds us that success is not solely determined by speed or strength, nor is it guaranteed by knowledge or understanding; rather, it is the divine orchestration of time and chance that plays a pivotal role. Being positioned in the right circumstances is ultimately under God’s control. The absence of favor often results in relentless toil, characterized by effort without fruitful outcomes. When one observes a person laboring without success, it is indicative of a lack of divine favor in their endeavors. Such a scenario often reveals a deficiency in wisdom, as the absence of God’s favor can lead to a life of unproductive striving.
When God removed Adam and Eve from the garden, He informed them that they would now face the burden of toil. In the previous state of grace, they experienced divine favor, which is not a guarantee for everyone who utilizes their gifts and talents. Many individuals mistakenly believe that simply applying their skills will automatically yield success. However, if one’s mindset is not aligned with the concept of favor, hard work may not lead to fruitful outcomes. It is essential to understand that this will not be your experience, and I affirm that in the precious name of Jesus, you will not toil in vain.
Furthermore, the relationship between favor with God and favor with man is crucial. Favor from others stems from one’s standing with God; without pursuing divine favor, one cannot expect to receive favor from people. The Scriptures indicate that the hearts of kings are under God’s control, and He can influence them as He wishes. As demonstrated in Luke 2:52, Jesus grew in favor with both God and man, illustrating that prioritizing divine favor leads to human favor. Therefore, I encourage you to acknowledge and seek the favor of God actively. I declare that the favor of God is upon your life and will continue to increase. This evening, I proclaim that a season of favor has arrived, and testimonies of favor will begin to manifest in your life this week, in the name of the Lord Jesus.
The concept of favor operates in a manner that allows it to find you, regardless of your location. Many individuals who have been part of a church community for an extended period may recall my previous testimony regarding our search for a new facility as we transitioned from Lagos Island to Lekki. This endeavor involved extensive searching, and not long ago, one of my mentors, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, shared an insightful observation with me. He noted that during property transactions, if the other party is unwilling to make any concessions, it is a clear indication that divine favor is absent from the situation. He emphasized the importance of recognizing this sign, suggesting that it is unwise to proceed under such circumstances. His advice has proven valuable, and I felt compelled to share it with you.
In discussing the testimony of our property search, I recall the numerous locations we explored, each presenting its own challenges. Initially, we were not particularly fond of the property that ultimately became the home of Elevation Church. However, we sensed a divine direction urging us to pursue it further. The property owners imposed various conditions, one of which required a recommendation from a specific individual on behalf of our church. They indicated that only this person could facilitate the process, and if I could secure their endorsement, the property would be ours. This experience exemplifies how favor manifests in seemingly small yet significant ways, guiding us toward our intended path.
I acknowledged the request to mention the name of the individual, anticipating that it would be someone whose identification would pose a significant challenge for me. However, upon hearing the name, I realized that I had this person’s contact information saved on my phone. This revelation prompted me to step outside the meeting venue and make a call, informing the individual that I was en route to their office. The owner of the property I was about to finalize a deal on had indicated that this person would be the one to provide a recommendation. The individual responded by inviting me to draft the recommendation and bring it for their signature, illustrating the workings of favor in my life. It became evident to me that when divine intervention is at play, it manifests in unmistakable ways, signaling that a significant change is underway.
Being aware of the presence of favor is crucial; one must remain vigilant and open to recognizing it in everyday occurrences. For instance, when arriving at a business location and struggling to find parking in a notoriously congested area, the timely departure of another vehicle, coupled with an invitation to park, serves as an initial sign of favor. This mindset should prepare you for further positive interactions, such as a warm reception from the front desk and a seamless meeting with the person you need to see. The awareness of favor can guide you from minor blessings to substantial opportunities, reinforcing the notion that a divine covenant is actively at work. This covenant, as stated, is unwavering and operates wherever there is light, symbolizing the promise that if the divine commitment to day and night remains intact, then the covenant of favor is equally steadfast. To conclude, I would like to introduce what I refer to as the Three Imperatives of Favor, or the Trinity of Favor, which emphasizes the importance of being in the right place at the right time, as highlighted in biblical teachings.
Is there a specific location I must reach in order to experience the favor of God? Is there a particular position I need to assume for divine favor to manifest in my life? Upon thorough examination of the Scriptures, I have come to realize that the concept of favor is intricately linked to geography. This notion is particularly evident in the narrative found in the Book of Ruth, specifically in Chapter 1. The story recounts how Elimelech, along with his wife Naomi and their sons Mahlon and Chilion, made the decision to leave their homeland of Bethlehem. Their relocation, much like the modern-day migrations we witness, may have been motivated by various factors, perhaps even the allure of better opportunities. However, it appears they overlooked a critical aspect: the geographical implications of favor. The Holy Spirit once imparted to me a profound truth regarding this matter, illustrating that certain blessings are not universally accessible, much like how apples do not thrive in every environment.
To fully harness the benefits of the covenant with God, one must be situated in a place where divine intervention can occur. Many individuals have distanced themselves from the center of God’s will, particularly concerning their geographical choices, yet they continue to anticipate the flow of divine favor in their lives. This expectation is often misguided, as evidenced by the tragic outcomes for Mahlon and Chilion, who both met untimely deaths, leaving Naomi in a state of despair. However, a turning point arose when Naomi learned that conditions in Bethlehem had improved, prompting her to return. While Orpah chose to remain behind, Ruth demonstrated a profound sense of purpose and understanding by deciding to accompany Naomi back to Bethlehem. This decision was not merely a physical relocation; it was a recognition of her destiny and the importance of being in the right place to receive God’s favor.
The narrative surrounding the favor of God is poignantly illustrated through the experiences of Mahlon and Chilion, who both passed away, leaving their wives to make pivotal choices about their futures. One of the widows chose to remain, while the other, Ruth, resolved to accompany her mother-in-law, Naomi. Naomi, in a sense, urged her daughters-in-law to take control of their own destinies. However, Ruth’s declaration of loyalty was profound; she proclaimed that Naomi’s God would be her God and that she would follow her wherever she went. This commitment marked a significant turning point, as Ruth chose not to return to her former life but to journey alongside Naomi, leading them both to Bethlehem, where a remarkable series of events would unfold.
Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, Ruth took it upon herself to provide for Naomi by gleaning in the fields, specifically in the field of a man named Boaz, whose familial connection to Elimelech was unbeknownst to her at the time. Boaz was not only a relative but also a man of considerable means, which would later play a crucial role in their lives. The story of Ruth exemplifies the critical nature of being in the right geographical location to receive divine favor. Just as certain crops thrive in specific climates—pineapples in Hawaii and apples in temperate regions—individuals must recognize where they are meant to flourish. This principle is echoed in the biblical account of Abraham, who was instructed by God to leave his homeland for a place designated for him. Similarly, Joseph’s destiny was realized only in Egypt, highlighting the importance of geography in the manifestation of favor. Ruth’s decision to return with Naomi was the catalyst for the transformative events that followed in her life, illustrating that sometimes, a change in location is essential for the unfolding of one’s purpose.
The second essential principle of favor is the concept of “Company” or association.
Throughout the Bible, we observe that individuals who experience the favor of God often do so in the context of their relationships and the company they keep. A notable example is the story of Ruth, who chose to accompany Naomi rather than remain with her own people. This decision not only transformed her life but also led to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ, illustrating the profound impact of choosing the right associations. The significance of company cannot be overstated; it plays a crucial role in the manifestation of divine favor. Proverbs 28:19 emphasizes this by stating that those who diligently work their land will prosper, while those who associate with the vain will encounter poverty.
Furthermore, the dynamics of favor are intricately linked to the company one maintains. Proverbs 13:20 reinforces this notion by asserting that walking with the wise leads to wisdom, whereas companionship with fools results in destruction. Favor flourishes in the right environment, and often, individuals must distance themselves from detrimental associations to elevate their circumstances. A prime example is found in the life of Abraham, who experienced God’s favor but needed to separate from Lot to reach a new level of blessing. It was only after Lot’s departure that God spoke to Abraham, promising him vast territories as far as his eyes could see. This pivotal moment underscores the necessity of aligning oneself with the right company to fully realize the potential of divine favor.
It is essential to recognize the significance of your presence here tonight, as it is not by chance that you have gathered in this space. The divine intention behind your arrival is to awaken your awareness to the necessity of distancing yourself from certain influences in your life, akin to the figure of Lot. I proclaim, in the name of Jesus, that as you embark on this new week, divine intervention will commence, facilitating the separation from those who do not contribute positively to your journey. It is crucial to respond with enthusiasm, for the power of agreement in faith is profound. There are individuals, much like Jonah, who may be present in your life, creating turmoil and unrest. Until such influences are removed, peace will remain elusive.
Furthermore, it is imperative to understand the concept of favor, which is intricately linked to both geography and association. Being in the wrong environment can hinder the flow of divine favor, much like Jonah’s presence in the boat led to chaos. It is vital to evaluate the relationships and circumstances surrounding you, as they can either enhance or obstruct the blessings intended for your life. The narrative of Ruth exemplifies this principle, illustrating that even in times of despair, God provides opportunities for growth and service. Ruth’s journey to Bethlehem, despite her initial lack of resources, underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing the seeds of potential within us, whether they manifest as financial contributions or acts of service.
In the narrative found in Ruth chapter 2, verse 15, we observe a significant moment in Ruth’s journey as she seeks to provide for her mother-in-law, Naomi. The verse recounts how, upon rising to glean, Boaz instructed his young men to allow her to gather grain freely. This act of kindness is underscored by Boaz’s command to let her glean even among the sheaves, emphasizing the importance of generosity and compassion in the community. The preceding verses, particularly verses 12 and 13, highlight Ruth’s humble plea for favor, where she expresses her gratitude for the kindness shown to her, despite feeling unworthy compared to Boaz’s maidservants. This interaction sets the stage for a deeper relationship between Ruth and Boaz, as he invites her to share a meal, further illustrating his respect and admiration for her character.
Ruth’s decision to glean was not merely a means of survival; it was a testament to her dedication and service to Naomi. By choosing to pick up leftover grain, she demonstrated a willingness to work hard and support her family, rather than waiting passively for assistance. This proactive approach reflects her sensitivity to the concept of favor, as she hoped to find grace in the eyes of those around her. Her actions serve as a powerful reminder of the virtues of diligence and humility, as she sought to contribute positively to her circumstances while honoring her commitment to Naomi. Ruth’s journey is marked by her resilience and faith, ultimately leading her to experience the favor of God in her life, as evidenced by Boaz’s generous treatment of her.
The concept of favor is intricately woven into the narrative of Ruth, who, despite her challenging circumstances, demonstrated a remarkable willingness to work and serve. The biblical account illustrates her journey as she ventured into the fields of Boaz, where she began to experience a cascade of favor. Boaz, recognizing her dedication and resilience, instructed his workers to ensure that she was not only left undisturbed but also provided with extra provisions. This act of generosity was not merely a coincidence; it was a manifestation of the favor that Ruth had attracted through her commitment to her mother-in-law and her determination to contribute, even when she had little to offer.
Ruth’s story serves as a powerful reminder that favor often follows those who are proactive and willing to serve, rather than those who wait passively for opportunities to present themselves. Her decision to glean in the fields, despite her status, exemplifies the principle that favor is often linked to one’s willingness to recognize and utilize their resources, whether they be skills, time, or a readiness to assist others. Many individuals have found success by starting from humble beginnings, volunteering their time and talents, and demonstrating a readiness to contribute. Favor is not simply a matter of waiting for the right moment; it is about seizing opportunities and understanding that every small act of service can lead to greater blessings and opportunities in life.
There exists a willingness within me to release certain aspects of my life, allowing the divine influence of God to manifest more profoundly. I perceive that the hand of God is descending upon someone present here today. It is with great conviction that I affirm this observation, invoking the precious name of Jesus. The biblical account of the widow illustrates this principle vividly; she was instructed to prepare a cake and water for the prophet Elijah. Similarly, Jacob presented venison to Isaac, demonstrating that those who are prepared to relinquish what God has entrusted to them often find themselves enveloped in divine favor. When Elijah approached the widow and inquired about her provisions, she humbly responded that she possessed only a small amount of flour. His directive to prioritize his needs first was rooted in an understanding of how favor operates and how to access miraculous outcomes. Had the widow been less receptive, she might have dismissed Elijah as greedy, but her willingness to comply opened the door for God’s intervention, resulting in an unending supply of oil and flour.
As we reflect on this narrative, it is essential to recognize the significance of faith and obedience in our own lives. I encourage you to affirm that the hand of God is indeed upon you, and that His favor is actively at work in your circumstances. Let us proclaim together that this is a season of divine favor, where we can expect to witness the transformative power of God in our lives. As we declare that God is clearing our paths and fulfilling His covenant promises, let us also acknowledge the palpable presence of His favor. I invite you to raise your right hand and begin to articulate your own declarations, inviting a new dimension of favor to manifest in your life. This is a moment to embrace the extraordinary workings of God, as we anticipate a fresh outpouring of His grace and blessings.
It is essential for someone to initiate a prayer, affirming their presence in the right place at the right time. I proclaim that the favor of the Lord rests upon my life from this moment onward. I invite the divine to remove any individuals from my life who do not belong there, granting permission for their departure. Furthermore, if there are specific locations or opportunities for business that I have yet to encounter, I earnestly request guidance to lead me to those places. I seek divine direction and ask for my steps to be ordered accordingly, invoking the name of the Lord Jesus for this purpose.