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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise As I read through the names in today’s genealogical records, I was struck by the thought that you know each and every person who has ever existed. How wonderful that you love and care for me, a single person in the vast ocean of humanity! Jesus said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Matt 10:29–31). Praise the Lord! Today in Your Word Today you shared with me the second part of the genealogical records of Israel. Among the descendants of Judah, one individual stands out—Jabez. “His mother called his name Jabez, saying, ‘Because I bore him in pain’” (1 Chr 4:9). This marked him as someone who would have a destiny of pain, yet Jabez rose above his name and became “more honorable than his brothers.” He did this by honoring you as the one true God and asking you to bless his life. He called on your name, saying, “‘Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!’ And God granted what he asked” (1 Chr 4:10). Jabez recognized this truth: “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established” (Prov 16:3). This teaches me that the key to personal success is to make you the center of my life. It also shows me how important it is to stay close to you and rely on your daily grace and provision. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He told them to say, “Give us this day our daily bread…and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” (Matt 6:11–13). This prayer reminds me that I can’t make it on my own—I have to have your help. If I will trust you will all my heart and acknowledge you in all my ways, you will make my paths straight! (cf. Prov 3:5–6). Reflection The half-tribe of Manasseh who lived on the east side of the Jordan had many mighty men of valor, famous men who were the heads of their father’s households. Yet they were not faithful to you, and they were carried into captivity by the Assyrians (1 Chr 5:24–26). This reminds me that success is not about fame or fortune. It’s about honoring and serving you. Request Father, help me to bring honor to my family and not shame. I don’t want to end up like Reuben. He is forever remembered for defiling his father’s bed (1 Chr 5:1). Thanksgiving Thank you for the high priestly line of Aaron. The Levitical priesthood foreshadowed the great High Priest who was to come—Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Hallelujah! In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Thou God of Jabez, Hear” — Philip Doddridge. Meditation Verse: 1 Chronicles 4:10. |