Now God had caused the official to show favor and compassion to Daniel.

Daniel is a good example from the Bible of what the favor of God can accomplish. Daniel was one of the young men of Judah’s noble families, who had been brought to Babylon as captives by Nebuchadnezzar the king. The book of Daniel tells us that Daniel was “highly esteemed” by God (Daniel 10:19). Despite the fact that he lived in the midst of an evil pagan empire, and despite the fact that he maintained his spiritual integrity in that context, Daniel was given favor with the authorities of the realm and moved up the ranks as a result.

The favor of God can be described as the esteem and approval of God that leads to blessings of one kind or another. In Daniel’s case, the favor of God led to favor with the official. Favor, however, can be manifested in many ways. For Mary, it meant being selected as the mother of Jesus (Luke 1:28-33). For Moses, it meant receiving God’s continuing presence and guidance for leading the people of Israel (Exodus 33:12-17). For Noah, it meant being saved from the great flood (Genesis 6:8).

How does one get the favor of God? Isaiah 66:2 quotes God as saying, “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.” God shows favor to those who seek His favor by loving Him, respecting Him, honoring Him, and taking delight in His Word. This does not mean one must be perfect. None of the people of the Bible who are recorded as receiving God’s favor were perfect. It does mean, however, that one must have a heart for God: “The eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him,” (2 Chronicles 16:9).

One can also receive the favor of God simply by asking for it. Psalm 119 says, “I entreat your favor with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise,” (Psalm 119:58 ESV). Today, as you live the life God has given you, why not ask Him for favor, like Jesus had, “with God and man,” (Luke 2:52).