Favor AND Suffering


“David continued to succeed in everything he did, for the LORD was with him. When Saul recognized this, he became even more afraid of him.” 1 Samuel 18:14 — 15 NLT
So many times we hear messages on the favor of God or the power of perseverance through suffering.
If I had a nickel for every time I heard the phrase “favor ain’t fair” I would be a rich man :-).
These two ideas seem to be very much opposed to each other. Those in the suffering camp always label the favor preachers to be “prosperity preachers” and continually point out the dangers of a gospel that is all about getting good things from the Man upstairs. Those who are big proponents of favor are always painting those who teach on suffering as unhappy, miserable people who just simply won’t except how good God is.
I believe the truth is right in the middle of both these concepts.
Like many spiritual principles, both of these ideas exist side-by-side and create a balance in the kingdom.
David was obviously experiencing tremendous favor on everything that he did because of the anointing on his life. Meanwhile, Saul was a raving mad man who continually tried to murder him and was extremely jealous of everything that he did. David’s leadership was forged in the fires of this dichotomy.
Takeaway:
As a child of God, you will find yourself in the same position as David.
It can be extremely confusing if you do not understand that both dynamics work out for your good and simply are a huge sign that God is processing you for a great assignment!
1 Samuel 18, New Living Translation (NLT) After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king's son.…bible.com