God loves everyone, of that there is no doubt. He sent his son as a sacrifice for our sins. God causes it to rain on the just and the unjust. God loves each one of us, even those who don’t love him back.

But God differentiates between love and favor. Here’s how the Lord communicated favor through Isaiah his prophet:

These are the ones I look on with favor; those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.

While God loves you no matter what, God shows preference to those who walk humbly with Him, who take his words to heart. To this group God extends kindness in different and deeper ways.

A good prayer? Lord, reveal areas of pride in my life that displease you, and root your words into my life. Then I might experience your favor.

Love and favor—fascinating to ponder the difference as I consider the mysterious ways of the Lord.

Isaiah 66 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022

Photo by Illiya Vjestica