Favor is not random—it’s cultivated.
We live in a world where talent can open doors, but only character keeps them open. In 1 Samuel 2:26, we meet a young boy named Samuel whose life didn’t just grow in years or height—he grew in favor, both with God above and with people around him.
What was the secret? It wasn’t just supernatural calling—it was wise words and noble manners.
In an age of loud voices and reckless behavior, God is still looking for men and women like Samuel—people whose speech is seasoned with wisdom and whose lives reflect honor.
These are the keys of favor: Smart Talk and Noble Manner.

1 Samuel 2:26 (AMP) “But the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor both with the Lord and with men.”

This version adds richness by emphasizing ongoing growth (continued to grow) and the dual dimensions of favor—with both God and people.

I.  “Continued to Grow in Stature” — Physical and Holistic Maturity

The phrase “continued to grow” suggests a progressive, intentional, and observable development, not just physically but also in wisdom, emotional health, and responsibility. “Stature” speaks not only of height, but presence, maturity, and influence.

The phrase “continued to grow” in the Amplified Bible highlights a key biblical theme: growth is not static, but ongoing. It conveys several important layers of meaning:

1. Progressive: Samuel’s development was not a sudden leap, but a step-by-step journey.
Just as a tree doesn’t become tall overnight, so too character, maturity, and favor take time and faithful cultivation. Spiritual formation happens over years, not moments.

“Spiritual growth is not automatic. It requires intentional commitment and disciplined steps.” – Rick Warren

2. Intentional: This growth didn’t happen by accident. It was the result of a life postured in obedience, humility, and responsiveness to God.
Samuel ministered faithfully in the tabernacle, showing that he positioned himself in God’s presence, even while others (Eli’s sons) were living corruptly.

“What you practice daily is what you will become permanently.” – Craig Groeschel

3. Observable: Others could see the difference in Samuel. His growth was not hidden or private—it was evident in his conduct, his reputation, and his spiritual authority.
It’s a reminder that genuine growth leaves visible fruit, not just invisible intentions.

“By their fruit you will recognize them.” – Matthew 7:16

“Stature” – More Than Height

While “stature” in the literal sense refers to physical growth, its deeper meaning in biblical context includes:

1. Presence: Samuel’s presence began to carry weight. As he matured, people sensed his authority and reliability. Even as a young boy, his life bore a sense of purpose, and eventually, Israel recognized him as a prophet (1 Sam. 3:20).

“True stature is not how tall you stand, but how deep your roots go.” – Unknown

2. Maturity: He wasn’t just getting older—he was becoming wise, stable, and dependable.
Maturity means knowing how to respond to criticism, when to speak, when to wait, and how to act under pressure.

“Influence doesn’t come from position—it flows from integrity and service.” – John Maxwell

3. Influence: Stature also means Samuel’s life began to influence others—not because he demanded attention, but because his faithfulness commanded respect.
His voice carried weight in Israel, not by shouting louder, but by living consistently.

“Spiritual maturity is not measured by how much we learn, but how much we love.” – Francis Chan

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II.  “In Favor with the Lord” — What Does This Look Like?

“…continued to grow in favor both with the Lord…” – 1 Samuel 2:26 (AMP)

Samuel’s Life:

• Samuel ministered faithfully even when others (Eli’s sons) were corrupt.
• He listened and responded to God at a young age (1 Sam. 3:10).
• God entrusted him with His word, and none of his words fell to the ground (1 Sam. 3:19).

“You don’t gain favor with God by trying harder—you grow in favor by drawing closer.” – Charles Stanley

To have favor with the Lord means to live in such a way that God delights in you. But this is not about trying harder or performing better. God’s favor is not earned through religious activity, external appearances, or perfection. It is cultivated through a heart that is surrendered, obedient, and faithful.

1. Not Outward Performance, But Inward Surrender

Many people try to gain favor with God through visible acts of religion—praying loudly, serving publicly, giving generously—but without a heart that is genuinely surrendered.
Yet Scripture is clear: God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

Samuel’s favor with the Lord didn’t come from his temple duties alone—it came from the posture of his heart. As a child, he said, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening” (1 Sam. 3:10)—a beautiful picture of humble receptivity.

“The essence of faith is not performance for God, but dependence on God.” – Andrew Murray

2. Obedience: The Pathway to Divine Favor

Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will obey My commands.” (John 14:15).
Favor is not about trying to impress God, but about trusting and obeying Him.

Samuel obeyed God even when the message was hard—like delivering a judgment against Eli’s family. He didn’t withhold the truth (1 Sam. 3:18). That kind of obedience—courageous, costly, and consistent—is what God delights in.

“Obedience is the key that unlocks the door to God’s favor.” – Charles Stanley

3. Faithfulness Over Time Attracts God’s Pleasure

Favor doesn’t come from momentary acts, but from long-term faithfulness in both hidden and public places.

Samuel served for years behind the scenes. While Eli’s sons were indulging in sin, Samuel ministered “before the Lord”(1 Sam. 2:18) faithfully, without recognition. This kind of quiet, consistent loyalty to God is what attracts His favor.

“God’s favor rests on those who walk faithfully even when no one is watching.” – Tim Keller

So What Does Favor with God Look Like?

Characteristic	Description	Scripture
Surrender	A heart yielded to God’s will	Romans 12:1
Obedience	Actions aligned with God’s commands	John 14:23
Faithfulness	Loyalty in both public and private life	Luke 16:10
Humility	Dependence on God, not self	James 4:6
Intimacy	A desire to know and love God	Psalm 27:4

“Favor with the Lord” isn’t about climbing a spiritual ladder; it’s about staying rooted in His presence. It flows from a quiet yes to God, even when no one else sees it.
God’s eyes search the earth not for talent, but for hearts that are fully His (2 Chronicles 16:9).
Samuel teaches us that the greatest favor we can receive is not from men, but from the One who sees in secret and rewards in eternity.

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III. “In Favor with Men” — What Does It Mean and Why Is It Important?

To grow in favor with people means to become a person of respect, trust, kindness, and wisdom. It’s not about pleasing everyone—it’s about becoming someone whom others are blessed to know and safe to follow.

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Two Building Blocks of Favor with People:

1: Smart Talk – Speak to Build, Not to Boast

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt…” – Colossians 4:6

Smart talk means using our words not to show off our intelligence, gain attention, or manipulate others, but to convey wisdom, speak truth, and express grace.
It’s about speaking with purpose, not noise—words that build up, bring life, and reflect the character of Christ.

“Wise speech is not born in the mouth but in the heart that listens to God.” – Charles Stanley

Smart talk is not merely being clever; it’s being conscious of the impact our words have on others and choosing to speak in ways that honor God and uplift people.

“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” – Mother Teresa

Samuel’s Example: Trusted Words from a Rooted Heart

“The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground.” – 1 Samuel 3:19

Samuel was not a noisy prophet, but a trusted voice. His words carried weight because his heart was aligned with God.
He didn’t speak prematurely or for self-promotion. When he spoke, it was with truth and integrity, and people listened. His smart talk was not performance—it was a reflection of deep dependence on God.

“Words are free. It’s how you use them that may cost you favor or earn you influence.” – Rick Warren

Seven Practical Applications of Smart Talk

1. Speak Less, Listen More

“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19

Application: Practice active listening before responding.
Why? Listening first helps you speak wisely, not react impulsively.

“Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.” – Plato

2. Avoid Gossip, Sarcasm, and Careless Words

“The tongue has the power of life and death…” – Proverbs 18:21

Application: Refuse to pass along gossip. Choose edifying words, not cutting jokes.
Why? Careless words destroy trust; wise words build trust.

“Gossip dies when it hits a wise person’s ears.” – Rick Warren

3. Speak Truth with Love

“Speak the truth in love…” – Ephesians 4:15

Application: Correct with gentleness, not with harshness.
Why? Truth without love wounds; love without truth misleads. Both are needed.

“Truth becomes beautiful when it travels in the vehicle of love.” – Adrian Rogers

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4. Use Words to Encourage, Not to Control

“Encourage one another and build each other up…” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Application: Say words that strengthen hearts, not words that manipulate decisions.
Why? Real leadership lifts people higher, not weighs them down.

“Your encouragement may be the spark that reignites someone’s fading hope.” – Unknown

5. Choose Timing Carefully

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” – Proverbs 25:11

Application: Speak the right words at the right time.
Why? Wisdom isn’t just knowing what to say, but when and how to say it.

“Right words at the wrong time can cause as much harm as wrong words.” – Unknown

6. Balance Honesty with Humility

“Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another…” – 1 Peter 5:5

Application: Be truthful without sounding superior.
Why? Humility in speech wins hearts, while pride hardens them.

“People may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou

7. Reflect Christ Through Your Words

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord…” – Psalm 19:14

Application: Make it your prayer that every word reflects Christ’s grace, kindness, and truth.
Why? Words are powerful testimonies of who we belong to.

“You are never more like Christ than when you use your words to heal, not to hurt.” – Charles Spurgeon

Summary Chart: Smart Talk Applications

#	Principle	Action Step	Reason
1	Listen First	Practice silence before responding	Understand before you speak
2	Avoid Harmful Speech	Stop gossip, sarcasm, careless talk	Protect trust and relationships
3	Speak Truth in Love	Correct gently, not harshly	Build truth without breaking hearts
4	Encourage, Don’t Control	Speak to uplift, not to manipulate	Empower others to grow
5	Choose Timing Wisely	Wait for the right moment	Right timing multiplies impact
6	Balance Honesty and Humility	Speak truth with a gentle spirit	Win trust, not resentment
7	Reflect Christ	Pray over your words daily	Your words are your testimony

2: Noble Manner – Let Your Life Speak Honorably

1Kings 10:4-5  The Queen was amazed at Solomon’s wisdom. She was breathless when she saw his palace, the food on his table, his officials, his servants in their uniforms, the people who served his food, and the sacrifices he offered at the Lord’s temple.

Biblical Background: 1 Kings 10:4–5

When the Queen of Sheba visited Solomon, she wasn’t just impressed by his wealth or words—she was overwhelmed by the way everything was conducted:

• The seating of his servants
• The arrangement of his table
• The excellence of his offerings
• And especially, “the way Solomon went up to the house of the LORD.”

This speaks to a dignified rhythm of life, where worship, work, and relationships were handled with reverence, order, and honor. She was “breathless” not just because of splendor, but because of the majesty of how people carried themselves. That is the power of noble manners.

“Greatness is not just seen in what you build, but in how you behave.” – Craig Groeschel

What Are Noble Manners?

Noble manners are not merely surface-level behaviors or polite formalities—they are external expressions of internal virtue. They go far beyond etiquette or cultural customs and reflect a transformed heart that values people, honors God, and lives with integrity.

Whereas etiquette may focus on how things look, noble manners emphasize why we act with care. They are not driven by a desire to impress, but by a desire to respect, bless, and reflect God’s character.

1. They Flow from a Heart of Honor

“Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10

Noble manners stem from a deep respect for others as image-bearers of God (Genesis 1:27).
They treat every person—regardless of position, background, or opinion—as worthy of dignity.

This kind of honor:

• Listens attentively, without interrupting.
• Responds respectfully, even in disagreement.
• Acknowledges the presence and contributions of others.

“The character that honors others will always attract honor.” – John Maxwell

Application: Don’t reserve noble manners only for leaders or guests. Show honor to the unseen, the young, the elderly, and even the difficult.

2. They Demonstrate Inner Humility

Noble manners are how humility takes shape in daily life. A proud person demands attention. A humble person gives space, shows restraint, and uplifts others. Jesus, the King of kings, washed His disciples’ feet—not out of obligation, but from a spirit of servant-hearted love(John 13:14–15).

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

Application: Humility can be seen in how you enter a room, how you speak to staff, how you accept correction, or how you celebrate others’ successes.

“Courtesy is not weakness—it’s the clothing of wisdom.” – Elisabeth Elliot

3. They Reveal a Life of Discipline and Self-Governance

Manners rooted in virtue are signs of personal maturity and spiritual fruit.
They reflect someone who has learned to control their tongue, posture, emotions, and impulses—a person shaped by the Holy Spirit, not by the crowd.

Paul describes this as “the fruit of the Spirit”—love, patience, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). Noble manners are the fruit of an inner life governed by God’s Spirit.

“True greatness is not how loud you are, but how well you govern your spirit.” – Proverbs 16:32 (paraphrased)

Application: Pause before reacting. Practice restraint. Allow the Spirit to form your response, not your mood.

The Anatomy of Noble Manners

Source	Expression	Result
Honor	Respectful tone, posture, and presence	Others feel valued
Humility	Gentle speech, quiet confidence	You reflect Jesus
Discipline	Self-restraint in speech and behavior	You gain credibility and trust

The Kingdom Perspective

In God’s kingdom, greatness is measured not by status, but by how we treat others.
Jesus said: “Whoever wants to be great must become a servant” (Mark 10:43).
Noble manners are the gracious movements of a servant’s heart—done not to be noticed, but because Christ is being formed within.

“The smallest act of kindness is a noble deed in the eyes of heaven.” – Charles Spurgeon

Practical Applications of Noble Manners

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. – Philippians 4:5

1. Respect People—Even When You Disagree

✅ Do this:

• Listen without interrupting.
• Say “I understand your view” before explaining yours.
• Use respectful language like “I see it differently” instead of “That’s wrong.”

❌ Avoid this:

• Rolling your eyes, raising your voice, or mocking others.
• Publicly embarrassing people for their opinions.

“Your tone can build a bridge—or burn it.”

2. Be On Time and Keep Your Word

✅ Do this:

• Arrive 5–10 minutes early to meetings or appointments.
• If you’re running late or need to cancel, inform the person as early as possible.
• Only commit to things you know you can follow through on.

❌ Avoid this:

• Making promises you don’t intend to keep.
• Canceling last-minute without explanation.

“Timeliness and reliability are invisible ways of showing honor.”

3. Pause Before You React

✅ Do this:

• When upset, take a deep breath and count to 5 before responding.
• Pray silently or say, “Can I take a moment to think about that?”
• Respond to texts or emails with thought, not emotion.

❌ Avoid this:

• Instant reactions on impulse—especially in public or online.
• Making decisions when angry or overly excited.

4. Prepare Before You Show Up

✅ Do this:

• Read the agenda before meetings.
• Pray and reflect before entering conversations that matter.
• Dress appropriately for the environment and the people you’ll meet.

❌ Avoid this:

• Walking into situations unprepared or distracted.
• Assuming you can improvise everything.

5. Focus on the Person, Not Your Image

✅ Do this:

• When talking with someone, make eye contact and put your phone away.
• Ask meaningful questions that show care, like “How are you, really?”
• Let your actions match your values, even when no one is watching.

❌ Avoid this:

• Talking more about yourself than listening to others.
• Acting differently in public than you do in private.

“People feel valued when they know they have your full presence—not just your attention.”

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6. Keep Shared Spaces Respectful and Clean

✅ Do this:

• Clean up after yourself at work, church, or home—even if it’s not your mess.
• Say “thank you” to service staff and volunteers.
• Offer to help when you see others overwhelmed.

❌ Avoid this:

• Ignoring messes or assuming “someone else will do it.”
• Taking people’s help for granted.

“Honor is revealed in how we treat spaces—and people—we don’t ‘own.’”

7. Speak with Thoughtful Words and Gentle Tone

✅ Do this:

• Speak softly when tensions rise.
• Say “please,” “thank you,” and “I’m sorry” often.
• Ask permission before giving feedback or advice.

❌ Avoid this:

• Speaking harshly, even if your words are “technically right.”
• Using sarcasm or mockery to sound clever.

💬 “Gentleness doesn’t make you weak—it makes you wise.”

Summary: Noble Manners in Action

Action	How to Do It	Why It Matters
Respect disagreement	Listen, acknowledge, respond calmly	Builds bridges, not walls
Show up well	Be on time, follow through	Builds trust
Respond wisely	Pause, pray, process	Prevents regret and reflects maturity
Be prepared	Come ready, stay present	Honors others’ time
Be present	Eye contact, full focus	Makes people feel seen
Care for spaces	Clean up, say thanks	Shows respect for shared environments
Speak well	Use kind words, gentle tone	Multiplies peace and influence

Closing Statement:

You don’t stumble into favor—you step into it by building a life that God can bless and people can trust. Samuel reminds us that growing in favor doesn’t mean striving for applause—it means living with consistency, character, and Christlike kindness.
So speak wisely—your words can heal or hurt.
Live honorably—your conduct speaks louder than your gifts.
If you walk in smart talk and noble manner, favor will not chase you—it will accompany you, because it’s drawn to those who live like Jesus.
Grow in stature. Walk in favor. Live with purpose.