Read Luke 2:51-52

"And Jesus increased in ... favor with God" v.52

Luke 2:40 (in most translations) says God's grace was upon Jesus. In verse 52, it says God's favor was upon Him. There is a difference between the grace of God and the favor of God. Grace comes when we trust God. His favor comes when He can trust us. Grace is based on His character. Favor is based on our character. Grace comes because He is faithful. But His favor comes when we are faithful.

It is wonderful to know the grace of God. But let us go on to maturity and enter into His favor. Is God pleased with ou? Is He happy with you? Is His smile upon You? Let us mature to the point where we can be found in His favor.

When speaking of us, may His words be, "You are my beloved (child). With you I am well pleased" (Mt. 3:17)

See also: Col. 1:10, Col. 1:28, 1 Thess. 5:23