Opening the Gates of Heaven Perry Stone

When you have prayed for favor and direction, you need not chase some man or woman around trying to get his or her attention. The favor of God can act like a magnet and attract the right person into your life. Favor can bring the miracle birth of a child. Many barren women in the Bible conceived after a visitation from God. Yet one received a child and certainly wasn’t expecting or asking for it! Mary was engaged to Joseph and was a pure virgin. When Gabriel appeared to her, the angel announced, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God” (Luke 1:30). Under the old covenant barrenness was considered a sign of the disfavor of God. This is why Hannah became bitter in her spirit and began travailing before God for a son (1 Sam. 1). Hannah’s prayers were so intense that they moved the heart of God toward her. Instead of one son, she bore seven children (1 Sam. 2:5). Favor can be obtained with God and with man. God’s Word speaks of favor with God and with man . Samuel grew in stature, and in favor both with the L ORD and men. —1 S AMUEL 2:26