Favor With Man

After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king’s son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David. —1 Samuel 18:1 NLT

A “higher level” can mean different things to different people. For example, someone who is a successful chef is on a relatively higher level than a person who is only an aspiring chef; even if that aspiring chef is successful at other things in their life. The problem can be that when we are aspiring towards something, there is a tendency for us to think that those already successful at what we are aiming towards might not want anything to do with those up and coming in that area. This can be true but, once in a while, there can also be exceptions to that rule. As a matter of fact, there are even times when we must stay alert to the reality and possibility that God will grant us favor in the sight of those who will help us to our “new levels.”

An example of this is given in our reference verse today. Although it would have been years before David became royalty himself, the Bible specified that the king’s son, Jonathan, really loved David. Later on, the Bible even tells us that Jonathan helped David in many ways, becoming someone David could call on for help when he needed it. The Bible says, “Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Then you will find favor with both God and people. (Proverbs 3:3-4)” A person’s character can grant them favor with those they probably never would have dreamed of finding favor with. At the time, David had been a Shepard boy his whole life, while Jonathan was royalty. David had no reason to believe he would build an authentic bond with the king’s son. Nevertheless, the fact of the matter is that you and I do not have to get to “certain levels” before finding favor on that level. Our mindsets just have to be prepared for this reality. Otherwise, certain opportunities can pass us by when it comes to connections we can build in this life.

Never stop a connection from happening before it ever begins, by pre-judging a situation and assuming nothing will come from it. The Bible says there was an immediate “bond” between Jonathan and David. God can make an authentic bond happen between you and someone who can help you on the way to the level he is sending you to. However, this can only happen for us if we allow it to. For example, whenever you are given the slightest access to those on “higher levels” than where you might currently find yourself, be open-minded to the fact that those people are human just like you. Do not be afraid because God can grant you favor with anybody at any given point in a day. When there is potential for a bond to be authenticated between you and someone else, just let it happen. Do not doubt. Trust God and follow his leading. God can soften the hearts of kings and princes, granting you favor in their sight.

Lots of Love, XO