December 21: Favor Leads to Praise

JJ Hernandez, Student Ministry Resident

“And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on, all generations will call me blessed.”  

Luke 1:46-48, ESV 

My pastor back home often said, “Favor ain’t fair,” and it’s true. God’s favor isn’t about fairness or what we deserve—it’s about grace, His undeserved kindness. Unlike the world’s idea of favor, tied to status or achievements, God’s favor is rooted in His love. It brings peace in chaos, joy in sorrow, and hope beyond circumstances. We can’t earn it; it’s a gift. 

In Luke 1, we see that the Lord’s favor rests on a young woman named Mary. Mary has true joy in her heart; she recognizes that God’s favor is upon her life, and her response is praise. It’s abundantly clear she considers it a privilege to carry the Savior of the world in her womb. Her blessing leads her to praise, not to pride or anything else.

When good things happen to us, what should be our first response? We should give God the praise He deserves. He is more than worthy; we have everything we have because of Him. God’s favor reminds us that our worth comes from Him, not from what we do, and it’s far greater than anything this world can offer.

Lord, thank you for your favor. May it always lead me to praise you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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