Psalm 5:12

  ¹²Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.               

Somewhere in Asia, a vocal commentator was favored and appointed as director of an important government agency. Observers have diverse opinions why he was appointed. Accordingly, the appointee was favored because he is an ardent, passionate and zealous supporter of the president. Others cannot easily approve his appointment because they prefer prominent individuals who are better qualified for such crucial position. Truly, it takes wisdom for presidents to make decisions, even when they appoint officials in their government.

Personally, if you have the authority to appoint personnel, would you favor someone who supports you or prefer the best qualified person even if you are not sure he supports or opposes your plans? Is it proper for authorities to favor individuals who are dedicated and devoted to their cause? Similarly, do you interpret that the Lord favors to bless obedience? Luke 11:28 says, 28“Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

If the Lord favors to bless believers who obey his instruction, who can oppose? Favoritism is also positive. God favors obedience to his instruction as impartial way to live life in its fullness. Obedience to his commands is the standard of righteousness that God favors. Interestingly it says in Ezekiel 33:17-20, ¹⁷“People say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ But it is their way that is not just. ¹⁸If a righteous person turns from their righteousness and does evil, they will die for it. ¹⁹And if a wicked person turns away from their wickedness and does what is just and right, they will live by doing so. ²⁰Yet you Israelites say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just.’ But I will judge each of you according to your own ways.”

Anyone may still oppose the preferences of the Lord, but believers abide in him to enjoy the blessing that God had prepared for obedience to his words.

  Lord Jesus, increase my faith to obey you always.

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