In Proverbs 8.35 I learn that finding wisdom is how I obtain favor from the Lord. As such, absorbing the precepts in Proverbs positions me to be blessed by God!
The Precept Explained
Being favored, thus receiving goodwill from someone, is a good thing.
For a person of faith, receiving God’s favor is especially good.
His favor comes to me in several ways. One way is through deep relationships, Proverbs 18.22.
Conversely, a perverse character is a source of problems, Proverbs 17.20, here described as “… finding no good …”
How I Obtain Favor
Fact is, the phrase “obtain favor of the Lord” appears three times in Proverbs, in 8.35, 12.2, and 18.22.
Specifically, the form of the Hebrew word for “obtain” means that I cause myself to obtain God’s favor.
Hence, my choices can lead to divine favor!
First, in Proverbs 8.35, when I find wisdom I find favor.
Second, in Proverbs 12.2, a just character brings me favor.
Good people obtain favor from the Lord, thus avoiding His blame. Proverbs 12.2 paraphrase
Third, in Proverbs 18.22, finding a lasting relationship is a source of favor.
In short, I position myself to get God’s favor by growing in factual knowledge and experiential insight. Also, by guarding my character. And, by being grateful for the close relationships God brings me.
Finding Life
Now, there’s an added benefit, beyond “favor of the Lord”, to finding wisdom.
As such, in Proverbs 8.35 we read “… find (wisdom) find life …” Therefore, my desire for personal growth is life giving.
My desire for growth is life giving because it directly impacts my ability to function as a leader!
Moreover, wisdom is a “tree of life” Proverbs 3.18. Similarly, a just life is a “tree of life” Proverbs 11.30. Likewise, accomplishment is a “tree of life” Proverbs 13.12.
Thus, a righteous and precept-driven life grows up in me to provide significant benefits to me and to others.
To repeat, I position myself to receive God’s favor by growing wisdom, a sound character, and gratitude for lasting relationships.
When I find wisdom I find life. In addition, when I find lasting relationships I find good. Finding life and finding good are great things to find!
Leadership Insight
Favor from God, at times, also implies grace from others. For example, see Proverbs 3.4. There, my merciful and truthful life returns grace to me from others.
Now, an impactful leader knows the facts, thus is data driven regarding decisions. That leader also builds insights, thus is careful and sensitive in implementing decisions.
As a result, an impactful leader is both a source of and a receiver of good because of his or her good character.
So, what we have here is a great example of giving and receiving in the form of sowing gratitude and kindness, then receiving grace in return.
Therefore, an impactful leader enjoys reciprocity in its most basic form. Above all, showing gratitude to co-workers is a great way to receive back grace.
Apply This Today!
Finding wisdom, guarding my character, and gratitude for deep relationships is how I obtain favor from the Lord.
Additionally, divine favor spills over into abundance. It’s pictured as a tree of life. Thus, deeply rooted, long lasting, storm-resistant, and beneficial to others. What a great description of an impactful leader!
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com