THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO LUKE - Chapter 2 - Verse 52

Verse 52. In favour with God. That is, in proportion to his advance in wisdom. This does not imply that he ever lacked the favour of God, but that God regarded him with favour in proportion as he showed an understanding and spirit like his own. Happy are those children who imitate the example of Jesus -- who are obedient to parents -- who increase in wisdom -- who are sober, temperate, and industrious, and who thus increase in favour with God and men.

{b} "increased in wisdom" 1 Sa 2:26; Lu 2:40 {5} "stature", or "age"