Where Do You Stand?

There’s not much “middle ground” when it comes to attitudes about “teachers’ pets” in the classroom or for those who are “the bosses’ most trusted friends.” If a student has found “special favor” with a teacher or an employee has gained “special recognition” by someone in authority at work, the rest of the class or workforce often resent the attention they receive or the benefits they get. And, why not?

Often there seem to be “secret” or “hidden” paths to such status. How they got there, or what they did to get “rewarded” is not always obvious. At one time it was an “apple” or “box of candy” for the teacher. Perhaps it was a “cup of coffee” to begin the day or a “special gift” on a holiday for “the boss.” But the way to gain this status is not published in a student handbook or organization’s policy manual.

With God, it’s very different. He has no favorites. There are no hidden secrets if anyone wants Him to recognize them at any time or from any place. He is always waiting anxiously for us to call on Him. His ears can hear the faintest whisper from the weakest voice.

Solomon gave us some great advice: “A good man obtains favor from the Lord; but the Lord condemns a crafty man.” A “good man” in the “eyes of the Lord” is one who lives to honor God; one who does what he does because he is motivated by God to serve Him and help others. A man who is “crafty” is one who “devises evil” or hides the facts, is not open and honest, nor truthful in his dealings with or service to others.

Want God’s favor? Follow Solomon’s advice! Honor God, serve others, and be rewarded!

Prayer: Lord, Your instructions for success are always direct, easily understood, though difficult. Give me Your strength to be faithful to Your teachings in all I do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 12:2 A good man obtains favor from the Lord; but the Lord condemns a crafty man.