God's Favor

“John grew up and became strong in spirit.” (Luke 1:80 NLT)

 

John the Baptist was a miracle--born to an elderly couple, infused by the Holy Spirit, and favored by God. 

 

“Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.” (Luke 2:52 NLT)

 

Jesus and John were cousins born months apart. Their mothers knew in their hearts that their sons were favored by God. Jesus and John were destined to be special.

 

John grew up and became strong in the Spirit. He prepared the way for the Messiah. He lived alone in the wilderness. He baptized people in the Jordan River. He preached unpopular truths. For this he was imprisoned and beheaded. 

 

Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people. He was a nomadic healer with a band of followers. When Jesus spoke unpopular truths, He was imprisoned and crucified. 

 

God’s favor does not lead to a comfortable life.