Understanding God’s Favor vs. Favoritism

And the patriarchs, becoming envious, sold Joseph into Egypt. But God was with him and delivered him out of all his troubles, and gave him favor and wisdom in the presence of Pharaoh, king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.

Acts 7:9–10

• God’s favor is a gift, not something earned. It’s based on Jesus’ sacrifice, not our own efforts.
• Favoritism is a destructive path. It involves manipulation, flattery, and compromises that can damage our integrity.
• Trust in God’s plan. He has a better way for your life than chasing after human approval.
• Joseph’s story is a powerful example. He relied on God’s favor, not his own schemes, to succeed.
• Embrace gratitude. Acknowledge God’s blessings and live a life of thanksgiving.

Today, let’s delve into a concept that’s fundamental for our Christian walk: the distinction between God’s unmerited favor and the human tendency towards favoritism.

Unveiling the Difference: Divine Favor vs. Human Games

The passage opens by reminding us that God’s way of showing favor operates on a whole different level than the “favoritism game” we humans often get caught up in. Favoritism is a transactional approach to relationships. It’s about buttering someone up, maneuvering through office politics, or even resorting to manipulation to gain an advantage. This verse calls this approach “stinky” because it relies solely on our own efforts and cunning, not on God’s grace and love.

Jesus’ Sacrifice: The Foundation of Unmerited Favor

Verse 2 dives deeper into the true essence of God’s favor. It emphasizes that God’s blessing isn’t based on anything we’ve done or accomplished. Instead, it’s entirely rooted in the perfect life and sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross. We don’t have to climb a mountain of good deeds to earn it; it’s a gift freely bestowed upon us. It’s a truth that should fill our hearts with immense gratitude – we are loved and blessed by God, not because of who we are, but because of who He is.

The Corrosive Nature of Favoritism

Now, let’s contrast this with the dark side of favoritism. Verse 3 paints a clear picture. This verse uses the word “stinks” to highlight how distasteful and morally bankrupt this approach can be. Favoritism often involves “apple-polishing” (excessive flattery), navigating the treacherous waters of office politics (which can involve manipulation and backstabbing), and putting on a false persona to gain favor. The problem with this approach is that it not only dishonors God, but it also erodes our own integrity and sense of self.

Losing Ourselves in the Pursuit of Approval

The pursuit of favoritism can be a self-destructive path. Verse 4 warns us that when we chase after the fleeting approval of others, we lose sight of who we truly are. We become fixated on what others think and how they can benefit us, rather than focusing on living according to God’s will and developing a genuine relationship with Him. This pursuit can leave us feeling empty and unfulfilled, constantly chasing after the next promotion or approval.

God’s Higher Plan: Trust and Confidence

But here’s the good news! Verse 5 assures us that God has a much better plan for His children. He doesn’t want us to grovel for success or resort to manipulative tactics. He has a unique purpose and destiny for each of us, and He desires for us to walk in confidence, knowing He will guide our steps.

Imagine this: Picture a loving parent whose child constantly begs for something instead of trusting their provision. That’s how God feels when we resort to favoritism. Verse 6 emphasizes that He wants us to have complete confidence in His love and provision. He knows our needs even before we ask, and He desires to shower His blessings upon us.

Unmerited Favor Opens Doors, Not Our Schemes

So, let’s ditch the favoritism game for good! Verse 7 reminds us that when we have God’s unmerited favor, we don’t need to resort to manipulation or force open doors. He, the master architect of our lives, will open the right doors at the right time. Our job is to live in obedience to Him, use the gifts and talents He has blessed us with, and trust that He will orchestrate the circumstances to bring His plans to fruition.

Joseph: A Shining Example of Trusting God

The story of Joseph in Genesis 39 serves as a powerful illustration of this principle. Even when faced with incredible temptation, Joseph clung to God’s favor. He knew that his success, his position as overseer of Potiphar’s entire estate, wasn’t a result of his own scheming or manipulation. He understood, as verse 9 beautifully illustrates, that it was all a gift from God.

Recognizing the Source of Blessings

Joseph’s powerful words in verse 9 are a testament to his unwavering faith. He didn’t see betraying Potiphar’s trust as just a human offense; he saw it as a sin against God, the source of all good things in his life. This understanding fueled his resolve to remain faithful, even in the face of immense pressure.