We confuse favor of God with likeability and popularity.

Whom God chooses for special purposes, He spares of popularity so they can grow fast in His sight, hidden, sometimes forgotten, often ahead of their times or of such beauty of a pearl that this world is not worthy to see it, fight against it or despise it.

Whom He gives the affliction of popularity, He gives opportunities to test their humility, obedience and takes them through public scrutiny to get their ambition purified to the point of self-sacrifice of their best talents so the glory will rise only to the King of Kings.

If solitude for the sake of God is burdensome, then something is off.

If popularity is not an affliction, then something is off.

Having a favor with God means that He turns His eyes on you, His gaze into you, His love for you. That’s the privilege of being the chosen one that is granted to everyone who calls on His name.

Getting noticeable ministry position, having a career advance, getting a heap of money, being recognized for gifts and talents, that’s not having favor in His eyes. That’s something between receiving a reward for your hard work and recognizing your character built solid and just a momentary luck due to self-promotion, hard networking, good marketing or persistence. Favor of God is on everyone who turns his/her face from himself to His Self, admitting, acting and living as everything is grace.

In short:

Be glad when you are in a season of getting your s… together without watchers.

Tremble when you are in season of people flattering you due to your popularity.

Proverbs 3:3-8

Let not steadfast love and dfaithfulness forsake you;

bind them around your neck;

write them on the tablet of your heart.

So you will find favor and good success

in the sight of God and man.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

and do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge him,

and he will make straight your paths.

Be not wise in your own eyes;

fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.

It will be healing to your flesh

and refreshment to your bones.