Genetically Favored for Good Things

It’s dinner time at our house on a Sunday night as I begin writing this.  Actually, it’s a bit late to be eating, but hubby and I are trying to keep ahead of things for tomorrow’s schedule so we didn’t get around to the meal until 8 p.m.

I’m not complaining, but am serenely calm and feeling rather blessed.  A hot plate of leftover spaghetti sits on the left of the keyboard.  I dig into it between writing and nibble on a slice of bread with butter that rests near the plate.

How marvelously favored …  you know, besides so many other things, having food available and not thinking where the next meal may come from or whether or not I will even get to eat that day. 

You may be surprised, but I know that feeling.  Or should I say, I’ve experienced that fear.  It was during times of lack that I came to understand abundance and how it ties to being favored. 

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Desiring Favor

As Christians our utmost desire should be to tap into the good things that accompany salvation, which includes receiving being favored by our Creator.  The sad thing is that most of us didn’t know about favor, grace or “the blessing” (not blessings) of God.

I was never taught about the favor of God or “blessing”, even though it’s in the entire Bible.  It was a subject that was avoided like the plague (that and anything about the Holy Spirit) as if it was sinful, selfish and not Holy.

It didn’t make sense to me that Christians knew nothing (or very little) about favor, especially when we form our life choices around being accepted, liked and yes – “favored” by society.

Tell me you don’t want approval, acceptance and to receive special benefits especially from your family, co-workers or boss?  Don’t you want people to be kind, generous and sometimes merciful in certain situations?

Of course, you do, and so do I.  So then, if that’s wrong why can’t we get it out of our thinking?  I’ll tell you why, because it is in our DNA to be Surrounded by Favor

There’s nothing wrong with wanting people to be nice to you or even having a bit of favor thrown our way.  It’s how God wired us – we desire to be liked and loved.  The Bible tells us that even unbelievers know how to be kind, that leads me to believe it must be something genetic that needs to be nurtured.

Everyone ever born (or yet to be) has an inner desire to be accepted and successful.  From the beginning all creation was genetically blessed by God.  Mankind was created to be achievers, not deceivers, but sin changed what would have originally come to us naturally.

“Then God blessed them, and God said to Adam and Eve (mankind Genesis 5:2); fill the earth and subdue it, have dominion (I give you power) over it …” (Genesis 1: 22-28 NKJV)

Adam and Eve never had to ask for God’s favor or blessings, because their world was Divinely created just for them.  They lacked for nothing so what could they ask for anyway? 

Favor surrounded them – literally, because they were already in “right standing” with God.  All Adam and Eve had to do was walk in favor.  It was their shield against anything harmful.

“For You, O Lord, will bless the Righteous; with favor You will surround him (them) as with a shield.” (Psalm 5:12 NKJV)

Mankind learned that relationship was the key to everything the heart desired, whether it was material, spiritual, mental or physical.  It still holds true for today.

However, when it comes to favor, we think there should be an equalizer – everyone who does this or that receives it.  You and I know it doesn’t work that way.

Genetically Favored

If you are thinking there has to be something that sets a person apart from others in order to gain such blessings, you would be correct (to some extent).  For man it’s works, but with God, it’s righteous living or being in “right” standing with Him through salvation (believing in Jesus Christ as the Son of God).  Adam and Eve stepped out of living right before God, and it cost them the shield of favor they enjoyed from the beginning.

This is where physical DNA is shattered and having the DNA of Christ separates everything of value.  Every person that comes into the saving knowledge of Jesus is automatically connected genetically back to God’s favor, because of the favor He bestowed on Jesus.

I know it may sound confusing, but let me put it like this to help you understand.  When Jesus died on the cross as a sacrifice, all sin was covered by His blood making it possible for anyone who believes to enjoy living in the favor of God.  However, only “repented” sin receives the blessing referred to as the favor of God.

Jesus died for all, but not all believe.  Those who reject Him still live in their sin even though Christ died for them to be free of it. 

Those who never believe in Jesus or seek forgiveness will go to Hell with their sin, sickness, diseases and everything else that separated them from God.  Can you imagine never being healed of anything?  That person who suffered in life with a sickness will never be rid of it – ever!

It’s important to believe today while there is still time and get back in “right” (favored) standing with the Lord.  The day of salvation IS the day when God’s favor is genetically restored into our life through Jesus. 

"For he says, In the time of my favor I heard you. and in the day of salvation I helped you.  I tell you,now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV)

This favor isn’t only for here on Earth, but for all eternity, just like it was back in the Garden of Eden.  No sickness, disease, loss of limbs, blindness, sadness, regret, famine, drought or lack of anything ever again - FOREVER!  We can be restored to Divine favor in every way that could possibly exist!

Salvation is the means or the "only key" that unlocks the blessing of favor (now and for eternity).  Should we be angry that no one told us about it when we were converted?  Possibly, or maybe it’s our own fault for not learning more about “this Jesus” when we first answered the call to repent of our sin.

You Choose or Reject Favor

All people were created by God, but not all are His children.  Those who choose to believe by faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, become accepted into God’s family.

As His children, “Charis” or “Chen” (Hebrew/Greek for favor) is automatically given.  It’s something everyone should want to explore more, until they finally grasp the concept of just how deeply God loves us and wants to be in our lives. (Read more on Charis favor here.) 

God is a Father that desires for good things to happen in our lives. He longs to have fellowship with His kids, but they’re not responding to His calls.  When we finally let Him in (by accepting Jesus into our hearts by faith believing He is God’s Son), something changes.

Basically, it means that God smiles and takes pleasure in accepting us as His very own, because bottom line, we believed what He said about Jesus! … and who doesn’t want to be believed when we say something, right?

“…. A voice came from Heaven saying, this is My Beloved Son,

in whom I am well pleased.  Hear Him!” 

(from Matthew 17:5 emphasis mine)

To “hear Jesus” means more than listening to what’s being said.  Believing God and acting on what He says is what’s it’s all about, and when we do, we gain approval that rewards with benefits or blessings (aka – favor!).

When it comes down to it, we actually choose whether or not favor from God is part of our lives from receiving or rejecting Jesus as His Only Begotten Son.

It’s really not God’s fault, but our own if we never take full advantage of the salvation benefit package.  After all, haven’t we seen it in the book of Psalms?  You know, the “run to” section in the Bible for all our problems!

“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits…”

(Psalm 103:2 NKJV)

When a relationship between God and mankind becomes severed by sin, receiving His blessings are also cut off until a person repents and seeks forgiveness. 

This Week’s Challenge:

Getting All the Good Benefits

Friend, God will allow us to go down into the “valleys” of life so we can get a revelation that He is and always has been the source we desire, not just His favor.  

It’s in our DNA that we long to be connected to something greater than who we are or what we can get out of this world.

Having a relationship restored to our Creator is the best benefit that should never be forgotten, and our Heavenly Father wants that more than we could possibly understand.  God wants to fill your life with good things that only He can provide; He truly wants to bless your soul.

Our challenge is to deeply focus on the benefits (blessings, favor and goodness) that God gives to those who put their faith and trust in Jesus alone. 

Look at what you could be missing, and this is just a portion of the promises of God!

"Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:

He forgives all your iniquities,
He heals all your diseases,
He redeems your life from destruction,

He crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies.

He satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

The Lord executes (gives) Righteousness
And justice for all who are oppressed."

(from Psalm 103:2-6 NKJV)

Today is the day of salvation – today you can be “genetically” favored by God if you want to be through receiving Jesus as your Savior or re-dedicating your life to the Lord.  Either way – the “benefits” are in your favor.

Read more about Charis – Chen Favor.

Psalm 103:1-6 Song "Bless the LORD, O My Soul" (Esther Mui)

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Until next time, study God’s favor benefits package.

“God’s favor comes through salvation.”

- Jesus Christ

*Unless noted, the names in articles are changed to protect the individual(s) privacy.  

Note: When used, the words satan or devil are not capitalized deliberately, because we give him no place in our lives. 

Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness. 

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Scripture Cards, Praise, Psalms 103:12, Pack 25

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Labels: Victory, Daily Favor Blog, Favored1, Chen Favor, Charis Favor, Favor of God, Salvation, God’s Benefits Package, Benefits of Salvation, Jesus Christ, Genetically Favored, Psalm 103, Fear, Promises of God, Genetically Favored for Good Things

Favor Is A Gift from God

Eighty and Fabulous Gift Set

On Tuesday, August 27th my husband and I had the pleasure of going to lunch with a friend who was turning a fabulous 80 years old!  Tris is spunky, funny, dresses to the nines, full of smiles, and without a crook in her walk.  She is full of life and a delight to be around.

We arrived at the restaurant and had parked when here she comes, right up behind us with a big grin on her face.  In a flash, Tris was on our heels with a stretched-out arm shouting, “I got the door.”

Entering the dining area the hostess instructed us to sit where we liked.  Plunking her pocketbook on the floor she pulled out her chair and started in on a story.  Oh no … it was not long before we were laughing anticipating the outcome of her “swallowed tooth” story!  We were not disappointed.

During our conversation, she was excited over showing off the new pink coffee mug gift set to her senior girlfriend group – the “magnificent seven,” and that she was going to bring it next time they met for dinner.   Her response sent us over the moon knowing it was something she liked.

“I’m glad you liked our gift and these are for you.” I said handing her a yellow bouquet of flowers and dripping water all over the table from the carry sack in which they were contained.  I quickly began sopping up the water with napkins when she took the flowers and leaned them up against her purse on the floor.

Pushing a small chocolate cream cake next to her plate I said, “This is for you as well.”  Putting down her fork she smiled and picked up the dessert. “Ooooh, let’s just eat this!”  She read my mind!

As we sat at the table I explained to our server that we were celebrating my friend’s birthday and shared her age.  Looking at her the lady acted surprised and could not believe it.  I felt the same and thought God surely renewed her youth just like it says in His word.

Abounding in Benefits

There are many “benefits” as the Bible calls it, described for those who accept and follow Christ as their Savior according to Psalm 103.  God blesses the soul, forgives sins, heals diseases, supplies good things, and even renews our bodies to name a few of those salvation benefits. 

However, there are more promises from God that go far beyond the few mentioned in this passage and one is His favor.  In verse 4 of that same chapter, it states how God gives lovingkindness and mercy.

“Who redeems your life from destruction (saves you from going to hell), Who crowns (adorns, encircles) you with lovingkindness and tender mercies.”

The word “mercies” from the original Hebrew translation of this verse means that God has compassion for us from the beginning; we are cherished with great love from before we are born.  Here God implies that He cherishes, takes pity on, and has tender mercy for the fetus acknowledging it is a living being He loves.

8) “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy (great in mercy).

In verse eight “merciful” means God is compassionate and full of mercy. Moving down in the blessing list of benefits we see the word mercy again several times, only it does not mean the same as in the previous verses.

Pick up with the last part of verse 8:

" ... and plenteous in mercy (great in mercy).

11) For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward them that fear (revere) Him.

12) As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions (confessed sins) from us.

17) … but the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him, and His righteousness unto children’s children;

18) To such as keep His covenant, and to those that remember His commandments to do them."

If we look at verses 8b (the term mercy), 11 and 17, the same word means a great deal more than God’s great compassion.  It includes: kindness, goodness, mercy, beauty and yes – favor referring to the person in reference.  

Not only does God give favor, He abounds in it!  These things cannot be bought, worked for, or earned, but are given freely from the Lord because of His mercy (compassion).

If you are born again God's favor is automatically on your life and available the moment you asked Jesus into your life and heart.  Favor is a gift from God if you are a believer, but many Christians do not know or realize it.  Even more they do not know how to walk in God's favor or recognize it in their daily lives.

Scriptures teach in Psalm 3:8 that the blessing of the Lord is on His people.  We can ask for favor on certain situations or increase of favor, but the initial blessing of favor (compassionate mercy) we do not need to ask for because it is already on you as a child of God’s. 

Every person who trusts Jesus as their Savior under the New Testament covenant, becomes an heir to the promises God made to Abraham.  We are identified as "seed" and “joint heirs with Jesus,” therefore qualifying us as heirs to the covenant promise made to Abraham in the Old Testament.

Upon salvation every individual receives the blessing of God that includes His favor.  They go together and cannot be separated.

Unfortunately, most Christians only believe in salvation that grants them a place in Heaven one day; they never walk in God's blessing or favor even though it is available to every child of God.  It cannot be earned, bought, or worked for … it is a gift!

It was one year ago since we first met sweet Tris at a water dispenser in Walmart, and a few weeks later we were honored to celebrate her 79^th birthday at her home.  After a wonderful time of fellowship, she shared her love for Jesus and we ended the afternoon in a time of prayer and blessings.

I am not sure how much she knows about God’s favor or understands the depth of it, but pray she will experience this gift from the Lord in ways more than she could ever ask or think.  My prayer is the same for you!

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” (Ephesians 3:20 NKJV)

            Until next time, Favored Blessings

*For those who trust in Jesus Christ, God gives the promise of life here but also the gift of eternal life (in Heaven; a Kingdom that cannot be shaken) as an inheritance of being His child.  If you would like to have this gift also, click here to learn more.

*Names in articles are not used but changed to protect the individual(s) privacy. 

Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness.

Fay aka Favored1 on Twitter, You Tube, Pinterest and Articles.  

Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior.

Content and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy.  

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.

Unless noted, scripture reference in series was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Gateway.  Image Creative Common License if not specified. 

Tags: Daily Favor Blog, Favored1, Daily Favor Teaching Blog, Fay Ann Daniels,  Favor from God, Favor, Blessings, Salvation, Senior, Godly Woman, Psalm 103

A Message for Today

I’ve got good news for you … the message from the scriptures that was given thousands of years ago is still being given today!  That’s right, and do you know why?  It’s because the covenant blessings of God are still in effect.  

The good news is that God’s mercy and favor never end! 

“Sing to the LORD, all you godly ones!  Praise His Holy name.  For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime!  (Psalm 30:4 NLT)  

Ahhh, but there’s also bad news … His blessings will cease for those who break covenant and fellowship with Him.   That doesn’t sound very “promising” does it?  Of course not, and that’s why I have another message to deliver.  There is a promise of hope to all who would adhere to the words of the Lord. 

As long as the earth remains God will send people to spread the message of repentance of sin through salvation.  He will always have messengers of hope because He is a loving, merciful, longsuffering God who longs to bless people with the benefits that come with favoring Him over all people, places or things.  

Those who walk away from His blessings are literally asking God to correct, punish and discipline them because they love remaining in their sin.  The message I want to share today is that from before you were born God’s plans were to give you a peaceful life void of evil and a great future full of hope.  There is only one thing standing in the way of that promise and blessing – sin. 

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD.  Thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.  Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:11-13)  

God promises that if any person has a desire to know and walk in a loyal relationship of fellowship with Him, He will give them a heart to know Him. He will reveal Himself to that person and be in favored covenant with them. (Jeremiah 24:7)  

If we compare this to our current circumstances, how many have lost their lives recently because of sickness or persecution, and are even questioning their own faith because they’re looking at the world and not to a Savior?  There is great sin happening and God isn’t oblivious to it.  

Like in the days of Jeremiah the Old Testament prophet, we are witnessing the destruction of people and nations fall right before our eyes.  Civilizations have turned from God and seek after evil, looking for ways to harm, kill and destroy anyone and anything in their path not realizing that they are being led by satan himself. 

“A thief has only one thing (malicious intent) in mind – he wants to steal, slaughter (kill) and destroy (you).  But I (Jesus) have come to give you everything in abundance, more than you expect – life in its fullness until you overflow (with blessings). (John 10:10 TPT emphasis mine) 

Judgment will come to those who do not seek God’s grace (favor) in forgiveness and repent (turn from their sin). This isn’t what God wants; remember He also said something else.  It involves good things, and who couldn’t use some goodness in their lives about now? 

Oh, and I have not forgotten the rest of the message God gave to Jeremiah … the message of hope. 

If you are doing destructive behavior or causing harm in any way, it isn't God giving you direction or of Him.  You are being deceived by the enemy who wants to destroy the good plans God has for you.  Plans to give you a peaceful future and a good life. (Jeremiah 29:11) 

Regardless of what’s happening in your life right now or what you have done, look to the only friend that will not turn His back on you – Jesus Christ.  Through His covenant of salvation, He will be with you and provide the strength to fight any situation so that you will not fail.  

God’s Son, Jesus, will save, deliver and be with you always until the end.  This is His covenant promise of blessing and favor to those who share the gospel message of repentance with boldness.   

"Go, therefore and make disciples of the nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe (obey) all the things I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20 NKJV) 

This is a covenant between "true friends" that God honors.  It’s His blessing promise of favor and the hope found only in the benefits of walking in close fellowship with Him.  For me, this isn’t only the best message for today, it’s the best message ever! 

Until next time, walk in covenant favor today and everyday! 

“Covenant fellowship has benefits of favor.” - Jesus Christ 

Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness.    

Book Pick of the Week: Click on link below. 

 Walking with God by Dr. Charles Stanley

(Imitation Leather)

Get it on Amazon or Christian Book  

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Maybe you don’t know the Living God that I know, but would like to have this kind of favor in your life also.  Click on the above tab “Tell Me About Jesus” for more information on becoming a child of the Savior. 

Content and Image Copyright from Favored1. Do not copy.

Disclaimer Notes: Results may vary due to lack of belief.

Scripture reference was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Hub. 

*Unless noted, the names in articles are changed to protect the individual(s) privacy.   

Note: When used, the words satan or devil are not capitalized deliberately, because we give him no place in our lives. 

Image credit:  Promises/Covenant Google Images and Quotes are Creative Common License if not specified.  

Labels: Daily Favor Blog, Favored1, Favor, Weekly Challenge, The Benefits of Walking with God, Covenant, Promises of God, Fellowship, Obedience, Jeremiah, Strength, Hope, Prayer, Protection, Repent, Forgiveness, Friendship, Salvation, Sin, Deliverance, Bible Study, Bible Series, Study in Jeremiah, Teaching Series, Victory, Fear, Vision, Messenger, Prophet, Faith, Covenant Blessed in Walking with God 

Note: Covenant Blessed with Favor in Walking with God. Join us for a lesson of faith in the book of Jeremiah as he walks out God’s vision and call on his life.

Covenant Blessed with Favor

Growing up I always wanted a “true blue” best friend.  That person is unwavering, reliable, loyal and who stays committed through thick or thin. 

You know the kind of friend that you can tell everything to, who always agrees with you, and is forever on your side no matter what the situation.  Well … that never happened – the perfect friendship so to speak.  

Sure, I had lots of friends (and still do), a few good buds and even a best-bestie "bff".  However, over the years they changed for some reason or another, drifting in and out of my life.  

Sometimes it was them, other times it was me.  Most often it was merely life’s circumstances that altered the relationships I had throughout the years.  For a while I started getting a complex when people moved and never told me!  After three or four times you start to wonder, right?  Hmmm … was it really me? 

Anyway, not one of them stayed close or ever agreed with everything I said or did, except for my life partner hubby.  He doesn’t go along with me 100% of the time, although he pretty much does for the most part as I do with him.  

It may be disheartening, but it's true for the majority of people.  Basically, friendships change, usually due to circumstances, values or beliefs.

No, there’s only one individual that has walked with me even in times when He hasn’t agreed with my decisions.  That person is Jesus Christ, and our relationship began after I chose to take Him as my Lord and Savior.  In prayer I confessed my sin and repented asking for His forgiveness.

I didn't know a lick about blessings, covenants or favor for that matter.  All I knew is that I didn't want to go to hell and be apart from God forever.

Admitting you’re a sinner isn’t easy, but the reality of it is eye opening and causes you to want to live a more peaceful life.  Since then, the benefits of walking with God have increased as I’ve learned about covenant blessings, He made to those who want to fellowship with Him. It’s pretty amazing!

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Covenant of Favor

If you are not familiar with what a covenant is, it’s basically an agreement between two parties, individuals or groups of people.  There are all kinds of covenants – both good and bad, depending on the terms of agreement(s) or oaths made during the time of its origin.   

Most think of it as a contract of sorts like in signing something for financial purposes, where there is an agreement of lending money for a certain item. In some way that’s correct, only with God it’s much more! 

It is to our benefit that we learn about the Word of God through Godly examples who actually made His promises part of their lives.  They faithfully (obediently) lived what they learned and walked in the favor blessings promised to those who believe.  

You see, God loves us so much that it is His desire to show mercy and favor on those who put their hope, trust and faith in Him no matter the situation.  He even invites us to seek His face so that we can receive such favor through His covenant blessings. 

The Bible describes several individuals who did exactly that, and God granted each of their requests.  Let me show you what I mean where covenants of favor were given and how (or if) they relate to us today.

Jeremiah the Messenger of Hell or Hope

Jeremiah was a prophet of God in the Old Testament scriptures of the Bible.  He tells of a time when he was about to lose his life for preaching the truth about sinful lifestyles.  The entire situation didn’t look good for the nation – truth is … much like what we’re facing today!

From the time he was born, Jeremiah was set apart by God to deliver a message to Judah.  It wasn’t one that would be easy to deliver, and would include a strong warning against the behavior of the nation. 

This is what Jehovah said to him: “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. See, I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out and to pull down, to destroy and to throw down, to build and to plant.” (Jeremiah 1:9-10)

Jeremiah grew up during a time when God’s covenant was being restored under King Solomon.  He witnessed the tearing down of pagan houses of worship, large altars, pillars, statues and images that exalted false gods over the true God, Jehovah. 

Does any of this sound familiar in comparison to what is happening in our society today?  What have you been witnessing in your neighborhood, city and nation?

As he grew in favor, for a time there was a revival of faith and turning back to the Lord through Jeremiah’s preaching about the covenant of God.  However, through the changes of rulers over the years, the people turned away from the Lord as in the past continually doing evil and worshipping false gods.

This man of God knew his message would not be received with open arms of affection, but could possibly cost him his life.  What the Lord revealed to Jeremiah would tearfully burn in his heart as he prayed daily, and until the time came to deliver the message to the people.

Sometimes God will ask us to do hard things, and such was the case with Jeremiah.  The difference here is that the prophet had a covenant promise that would see him through every obstacle he would encounter.

It was the Lord who chose Jeremiah to warn the nation to repent of their wicked acts of sin in order to avoid a judgment that would surely come upon the entire nation.  The people had broken their covenant with God and persisted in their sins committing unlawful acts, unkindness, lewd behavior.  They were prideful in the way they oppressed or persecuted foreigners, widows, children and the humble.

If they did not repent of their sins, God was explicit in saying what would happen.  His blessings and hand of favor would be lifted off them and their land.  They would face famine, starvation, looting and their entire nation would be destroyed by invaders.  Their life would be a "living hell" that would lead to an eternal life in hell and apart from Him forever!

Are we not seeing history being repeated?  Hasn’t God given us warning of a coming disaster if we do not turn back to Him?

The people did not repent as God said, so destruction came upon those who walked away from their relationship with the Lord.  As in the days of Jeremiah, we too are witnessing the destruction of nations and are under siege of evil where believers are persecuted for preaching the message of salvation, repentance and doing good.

By now Jeremiah was sought out as a criminal even among ungodly priests who wanted him beaten and thrown into prison.  Through pressure the king approved of the arrest for his spreading news of an impending disaster over the people and land.

Upon his apprehension they lowered Jeremiah into the bottom of a muddy cistern with the intent that he would starve to death.  When word got out about what happened, another court official pleaded with the king for permission to rescue the prophet.

There Is Hope 

There was another message that God instructed Jeremiah to deliver.  It was a promise of hope to all who would adhere to his words from the Lord.

Even in the bottom of a pit the words God spoke to Jeremiah remained in his heart.  He remembered the promise of God to save, deliver and be with him to finish the task, and boldly speak out without being afraid of the people coming against him.  God gave him the strength needed to withstand the persecution and a promise that he would not fail.

“I will make you to this people a fortified bronze wall; and they will fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you; for I am with you to save you and deliver you.” (Jeremiah 15:20-21)

The message God spoke through Jeremiah is the same that is being spoken to those who still believe and walk in the covenant blessings of God – repent and return to God!  Judgement is coming but there is still hope!

Scriptures tell us that no one escapes punishment of sin.  The payment for breaking laws has a penalty called death; it could be physical, spiritual or both.  

“For the wages (payment penalty) of sin is death, but the gift of God (hope) is eternal life through believing in Jesus Christ our Lord who saves.”  (from Romans 3:23)

This is where the encouraging message of hope Jeremiah spoke of comes into the covenant of those who turn back to the Lord.  The only way to avoid punishment is through asking God to forgive the sins we have committed against Him.  

God wanted Jeremiah to make sure that the people knew He would not destroy them, but was willing to bless them with favor and spare the nation IF they repented of their sins.  He gave them a way out of being judged or destroyed and being overtaken!

“The instant I speak concerning a nation (any nation) and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, to pull down, and to destroy it, if that nation against whom I have spoken turns from its evil, I will relent of the disaster that I thought to bring upon it.”

“God also speaks of the consequences for those that do not listen to His Words about repenting and turning back to worshipping Him alone.

“The instant I speak concerning a nation and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it, if it does evil in My sight so that it does not obey My voice, then I will relent concerning the good (favor and blessings) with which I said would benefit it.” (Jeremiah 18:7-10)

A Message for Today 

The prophet’s message that was given thousands of years ago is still being given today, because the covenant blessings of God are still in effect.  God’s mercy and favor never end, but His blessings will for those who break covenant and fellowship with Him. 

“Sing to the LORD, all you godly ones!  Praise His Holy name.  For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime!  (Psalm 30:4 NLT) 

As long as the earth remains God will send people to spread the message of repentance of sin through salvation.  He will always have messengers of hope because He is a loving, merciful, longsuffering God who longs to bless people with the benefits that come with favoring Him over all people, places or things. 

Those who walk away from His blessings are literally asking God to correct, punish and discipline them because they love remaining in their sin.  Do you not realize that from before you were born God’s plans for you were to give you a peaceful life void of evil and a great future full of hope?  There is only one thing standing in the way of that promise and blessing – sin.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD.  Thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.  Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:11-13) 

God also promises that if any person has a desire to know Him and walk in a loyal relationship of fellowship with Him, He will give them a heart to know Him. He will reveal Himself to that person and be in favored covenant with them. (Jeremiah 24:7) 

Good Overcomes Evil

It looked as if everyone, including the religious leaders had turned against Jeremiah.  That may have been the fact, but Jeremiah remembered his “true blue” relationship with the God who destroys the facts of man with Truth in His promised blessings.

Jeremiah had One person who remained faithful to His covenant partner – Jehovah, Jesus Christ – the One True God.

“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24)

In the end of that horrific time and persecution, Jeremiah’s life was spared as a result of favor from God and mankind.  His faith in God and obedience to the Lord in covenant was what saved his life, despite the evil that was going on around him.  During a time of crisis he fulfilled his call to help save Israel from total destruction.

“Did King Hezekiah of Judah and all the people of Judah put him (Jeremiah) to death?  Did not the king fear the LORD and plead for the LORD’s favor, and did not the LORD relent concerning the disaster He had pronounced against them? 

We are about to bring a terrible disaster on ourselves (about to commit a huge mistake that will cost us our lives!)” (Jeremiah 26:19 CSB; the entire chapter tells the full account)

The Rest of the Message

If we compare this to our current circumstances, how many have lost their lives recently because of sickness or persecution, and are even questioning their own faith because they’re looking at the world and not to a Savior?  There is great sin happening and God isn’t oblivious to it. 

Like in the days of Jeremiah, we are witnessing the destruction of people and nations fall right before our eyes.  Civilizations have turned from God and seek after evil, looking for ways to harm, kill and destroy anyone and anything in their path not realizing that they are being led by satan himself.

“A thief has only one thing (malicious intent) in mind – he wants to steal, slaughter (kill) and destroy (you).  But I (Jesus) have come to give you everything in abundance, more than you expect – life in its fullness until you overflow (with blessings). (John 10:10 TPT emphasis mine)

Judgment will come to those who do not seek God’s grace (favor) in forgiveness and repent (turn from their sin). This isn’t what God wants; remember He also said something else.

I have not forgotten the rest of the message God gave to Jeremiah … the message of hope.

If you are doing destructive behavior or causing harm in any way, it isn't God giving you direction or of Him.  You are being deceived by the enemy who wants to destroy the good plans God has for you.  Plans to give you a peaceful future and a good life. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Regardless of what’s happening in your life right now or what you have done, look to the only friend that will not turn His back on you – Jesus Christ.  Through His covenant of salvation, He will be with you and provide the strength to fight any situation so that you will not fail. 

God’s Son, Jesus, will save, deliver and be with you always until the end.  This is His covenant promise of blessing and favor to those who share the gospel message of repentance with boldness.  

"Go, therefore and make disciples of the nations baptizing them in the name of the Father  and the Son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe (obey) all the things I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of  the age. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20 NKJV)

This is a covenant between "true friends" that God honors.  It’s His blessing promise of favor and the hope found only in the benefits of walking in close fellowship with Him.

Jeremiah 's (the prophet's) Song

Until next time, walk in covenant favor!

“Covenant fellowship has benefits of favor.”

- Jesus Christ

Continue reading part 2 here.

Disclaimer: Article information is not meant to be used as treatment for mental or physical issues, but geared toward spiritual awareness.

   

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Scripture reference was taken from the New King James Bible Version provided by Bible Hub. 

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Note: When used, the words satan or devil are not capitalized deliberately, because we give him no place in our lives.

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