The Daily Dose

There is a place for you in God’s house

All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve. They were recorded by their genealogy, in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their trusted office. ~ 1 Chronicles 9:22

Have you ever walked into a church and noticed all the things happening around you? Someone is greeting people at the door, someone is leading worship, someone is running the sound booth, someone is teaching children, and someone is making sure there’s enough coffee to keep everyone awake through the morning service! While some people are standing on a platform, others are working behind the scenes, making sure everything runs smoothly. But have you ever stopped to think about how many different gifts and people it takes to make ministry happen? What if the person greeting someone at the door is just as important to God’s purpose that morning as the person preaching the message? What if the person quietly working behind the scenes is helping create an atmosphere where someone encounters Jesus?

That’s exactly the kind of picture we get in today’s scripture reading. This chapter gives us a glimpse into the people who served in the house of God after Israel returned from exile. We read about priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and those who were responsible for caring for the furnishings and supplies of the temple. Some had responsibilities that were highly visible, while others had assignments that most people probably never noticed. There were people who guarded the entrances, others who prepared things for worship, and still others who took care of the daily responsibilities that kept everything functioning.

What stands out to me is that God didn’t just record the activities taking place in His house. He recorded the people and the positions they filled. Each assignment mattered because each person was contributing to something bigger than themselves. I believe this is such an important message for the body of believers today. God has given each of us different giftings, abilities, personalities, and passions, and He wants us to use them to build His Kingdom. We aren’t all called to do the same thing, but we’re all called to do something.

Here are three important truths in this chapter that can help us recognize our place in God’s house and discover how our personal giftings can become an important part of ministry.

1. Your gifting reveals opportunities for your assignment.

In this passage, we see that the people serving in the temple had different responsibilities according to their positions and abilities. The gatekeepers were assigned to guard the entrances. Others were responsible for preparing and caring for the temple furnishings. Still others had responsibilities involving the bread and supplies used in worship. They weren’t all doing the same thing, and they weren’t expected to. Their assignments were different because the needs of the house were different.

I think sometimes we make ministry more complicated than it needs to be because we assume that serving God means doing something that looks impressive or requires a special title. But ministry often begins with recognizing what God has already placed inside of us. Your natural abilities, spiritual gifts, personality, experiences, and passions can all become tools God uses to reach people.

For example, if you’re someone who naturally notices people and enjoys making them feel welcome, you might have a gift for hospitality. Greeting at the doors, serving on a connection team, or helping new people feel comfortable in church could be a wonderful expression of that gifting. If you’re creative and enjoy making things beautiful, you might find your place on a decorating team, designing graphics, preparing event displays, or helping create an inviting environment for ministry. If you love organizing details and making sure everything is in its proper place, administration might be one of your strengths. You could help coordinate events, manage schedules, organize volunteers, or make sure the details don’t fall through the cracks.

Maybe you’re someone who loves to encourage people. You might be the perfect person to serve on a prayer team, follow up with new believers, or encourage ministry leaders who need someone in their corner. If you love teaching and explaining God’s Word, children’s ministry, small groups, or discipleship might be a great place to use that gift.

Here’s something to remember. Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean it has to remain something you do for yourself. Sometimes the very thing you enjoy doing naturally is an opportunity God wants to use to bless someone else. You don’t have to wait for a burning bush or an audible voice from heaven to start serving. Sometimes you just need to recognize a need, recognize a gifting, and be willing to say yes!

2. Not every ministry position is visible, but every ministry position is valuable.

One of the things I love about this chapter is the attention given to the gatekeepers. They were responsible for guarding the entrances to the house of God. They made sure the doors were attended to and that the temple was protected. They also had other responsibilities connected to the daily operation of the temple. It might not sound like the most exciting assignment, but it was an important one.

Think about it. The priests could be ready to minister, the singers could be ready to lead worship, and everything inside the temple could be prepared, but someone still had to take care of the entrance! The gatekeepers weren’t the ones everyone came to see, but their faithfulness helped make everything else possible.

This is such a good reminder for us today because we can sometimes place more value on the ministries that are seen than the ministries that happen behind the scenes. We notice the person holding the microphone, but we might not notice the person who arrived early to make sure the microphone is in the right place. We hear the worship leader, but we might not think about the sound technician making sure the microphones work. We see the children’s classrooms filled with happy kids, but we may not think about the people who prepared the lessons, checked in the families, cleaned the rooms, and made sure everything was ready.

And let’s be honest, if the sound system isn’t working, suddenly everybody knows exactly who is serving in that ministry! Sometimes the most appreciated ministry position is the one we didn’t realize we needed until something stopped working.

Maybe your gift is being dependable. You might not be the person who comes up with the big ideas, but you’re the one who can be counted on to follow through. That’s valuable. Maybe you’re gifted in serving, and you enjoy taking care of practical needs without needing recognition. That’s valuable too. Perhaps you’re good with technology, finances, hospitality, maintenance, photography, or organizing supplies. All of those abilities can be used to serve people and support the work of the ministry.

We need to stop thinking of ministry as a competition for the most visible position. God isn’t handing out trophies based on who gets the most attention. He’s looking for people who are faithful with what He’s entrusted to them. Your assignment might be behind a desk, in a classroom, at a welcome center, in a parking lot, or in a room full of supplies. Wherever God has placed you, serve with purpose. You might never know how many people were blessed because you faithfully did something that seemed small.

3. Your faithfulness creates room for others to encounter God.

Another interesting detail in in today’s chapter is found in verses 26 and 27. The gatekeepers were entrusted with responsibility for the chambers and treasuries of the house of God, and they were to guard the entrances. We also read that they spent the night around the house of God because they were responsible for opening it each morning.

That means their ministry wasn’t simply showing up when it was convenient. They had been entrusted with a responsibility that required consistency, commitment, and faithfulness. They understood that what they did mattered to the larger purpose of God’s house.

I believe this is where ministry becomes much bigger than simply filling a volunteer position. When we use our gifts faithfully, we’re helping create opportunities for other people to experience the goodness of God. The person who welcomes a visitor may be the first person to make them feel loved after a difficult week. The children’s ministry volunteer may be planting a seed of faith in a child who will one day lead others to Jesus. The person who serves in the bookstore may help someone find a book that encourages them through a difficult season. The person who faithfully prays for others may be partnering with God in ways they’ll never fully see.

Your ministry position may seem like a small piece of the plan, but you have no idea how God might use it in someone’s life. Think about the person who almost didn’t come to church that morning. Maybe they were discouraged, lonely, or questioning whether God even cared about them. A simple smile, a kind conversation, or someone taking the time to help them find a seat could be the beginning of a completely different day for them.

And let me take this a step further. If you’ve been faithfully attending church for a year, two years, or even longer, but you’ve never taken the step to get involved and use your gifts, maybe it’s time to ask yourself why. Have you been coming to receive but haven’t yet considered what you can contribute? Have you been waiting until you feel more qualified, more confident, or until someone personally approaches you with an invitation? Maybe you’ve been thinking that someday you’ll get involved, but someday keeps getting pushed to the next semester, the next ministry launch, or the next time there’s an opportunity. I want to encourage you, now is the time to take that step!

Church isn’t meant to be a place where we simply show up, find our favorite seat, enjoy the worship, listen to the message, and head home. Those things are wonderful, and we absolutely need to gather together and be strengthened in our faith. But we’re also called to be part of the body of Christ, and every member has something to contribute. You don’t have to wait until you have years of Bible knowledge or have everything figured out before you start serving. Some of the greatest growth in your walk with God will happen when you step out and begin using what He’s already placed inside of you.

Maybe you’ve been attending for a while and have a heart for children. Why not consider serving in children’s ministry? Perhaps you’re naturally friendly and love meeting new people. A connection or greeting team might be a great place to start. Maybe you enjoy encouraging others, consider joining a prayer team or getting involved in a small group where you can help people grow in their faith. If you’re organized, you might be a great fit for event planning or administration. If you love worship, explore opportunities on the worship or production teams. Maybe you’re someone who enjoys serving behind the scenes, helping with setup, preparing classrooms, organizing supplies, or making sure everything is ready before anyone walks through the door. There are so many ways to make a difference!

And here’s something else. Don’t let the thought that someone else can do it better keep you sitting on the sidelines. God isn’t looking for people who have it all together. He’s looking for people who are willing. You might feel a little nervous the first time you serve, and you might not know where everything is or exactly what to do. That’s okay! Nobody starts out knowing all the ins and outs of a ministry. Give yourself permission to learn, grow, and discover what God can do through you. You may walk in thinking you’re there to bless someone else, only to discover that God has something special He wants to do in you along the way.

This also means we need to be willing to grow in our giftings. Maybe you’ve been serving in one area for a long time, but God is stirring something new in your heart. Perhaps you have a passion for mentoring younger believers, leading a small group, helping single moms, or encouraging women in their walk with the Lord. Don’t dismiss those promptings. Ask God to show you how He wants to work with what He’s placed inside of you. Sometimes the next ministry opportunity begins with a simple willingness to take one step beyond what you’re already comfortable doing.

And remember, you don’t have to do everything! Just because you see a need doesn’t mean you’re personally responsible for filling every need. Even the people serving in 1 Chronicles 9 had specific assignments. Discover your gifting, be faithful in your assignment, and make room for others to use theirs too. The Church becomes stronger when everyone contributes what God has given them.

Today I want to encourage you to stop looking at ministry as something reserved for a select few and start seeing it as an opportunity God has given to every believer. 1 Chronicles 9 reminds us that the house of God needed priests, gatekeepers, caretakers, and people who faithfully handled the daily responsibilities. Today, the Church still needs people with different gifts, personalities, experiences, and abilities. Maybe you’re a natural encourager, an organizer, a teacher, a creative thinker, a servant, or someone who loves making people feel welcome. Whatever God has placed inside of you, don’t underestimate its value.

Your gifting isn’t just something to enjoy for yourself. It was given to you to serve others and build His Kingdom. You don’t have to have a title to have an assignment, and you don’t have to stand on a platform to make an eternal difference. Find your place, use your gifts, and be faithful with what God has entrusted to you. Don’t settle into being a spectator when God has called you to be a participant. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, consider this your invitation to get in the game. There’s a place for you, there’s a gift inside of you, and there’s someone who needs what God has placed in your hands. When everyone brings what God has given them, the entire body becomes stronger, and more people have the opportunity to encounter Jesus personally.

Today’s scripture reading: 1 Chronicles 9

1 So all Israel was recorded by genealogies, and indeed, they were inscribed in the book of the kings of Israel. But Judah was carried away captive to Babylon because of their unfaithfulness.

2 And the first inhabitants who dwelt in their possessions in their cities were Israelites, priests, Levites, and the Nethinim.

3 Now in Jerusalem the children of Judah dwelt, and some of the children of Benjamin, and of the children of Ephraim and Manasseh:

4 Uthai the son of Ammihud, the son of Omri, the son of Imri, the son of Bani, of the descendants of Perez, the son of Judah.

5 Of the Shilonites: Asaiah the firstborn and his sons.

6 Of the sons of Zerah: Jeuel, and their brethren—six hundred and ninety.

7 Of the sons of Benjamin: Sallu the son of Meshullam, the son of Hodaviah, the son of Hassenuah;

8 Ibneiah the son of Jeroham; Elah the son of Uzzi, the son of Michri; Meshullam the son of Shephatiah, the son of Reuel, the son of Ibnijah;

9 and their brethren, according to their generations—nine hundred and fifty-six. All these men were heads of a father’s house in their fathers’ houses.

10 Of the priests: Jedaiah, Jehoiarib, and Jachin;

11 Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the officer over the house of God;

12 Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah; Maasai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer;

13 and their brethren, heads of their fathers’ houses—one thousand seven hundred and sixty. They were very able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

14 Of the Levites: Shemaiah the son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, of the sons of Merari;

15 Bakbakkar, Heresh, Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Micah, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph;

16 Obadiah the son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun; and Berechiah the son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, who lived in the villages of the Netophathites.

17 And the gatekeepers were Shallum, Akkub, Talmon, Ahiman, and their brethren. Shallum was the chief.

18 Until then they had been gatekeepers for the camps of the children of Levi at the King’s Gate on the east.

19 Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, from his father’s house, the Korahites, were in charge of the work of the service, gatekeepers of the tabernacle. Their fathers had been keepers of the entrance to the camp of the Lord.

20 And Phinehas the son of Eleazar had been the officer over them in time past; the Lord was with him.

21 Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was keeper of the door of the tabernacle of meeting.

22 All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve. They were recorded by their genealogy, in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their trusted office.

23 So they and their children were in charge of the gates of the house of the Lord, the house of the tabernacle, by assignment.

24 The gatekeepers were assigned to the four directions: the east, west, north, and south.

25 And their brethren in their villages had to come with them from time to time for seven days.

26 For in this trusted office were four chief gatekeepers; they were Levites. And they had charge over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God.

27 And they lodged all around the house of God because they had the responsibility, and they were in charge of opening it every morning.

28 Now some of them were in charge of the serving vessels, for they brought them in and took them out by count.

29 Some of them were appointed over the furnishings and over all the implements of the sanctuary, and over the fine flour and the wine and the oil and the incense and the spices.

30 And some of the sons of the priests made the ointment of the spices.

31 Mattithiah of the Levites, the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the trusted office over the things that were baked in the pans.

32 And some of their brethren of the sons of the Kohathites were in charge of preparing the showbread for every Sabbath.

33 These are the singers, heads of the fathers’ houses of the Levites, who lodged in the chambers, and were free from other duties; for they were employed in that work day and night.

34 These heads of the fathers’ houses of the Levites were heads throughout their generations. They dwelt at Jerusalem.

35 Jeiel the father of Gibeon, whose wife’s name was Maacah, dwelt at Gibeon.

36 His firstborn son was Abdon, then Zur, Kish, Baal, Ner, Nadab,

37 Gedor, Ahio, Zechariah, and Mikloth.

38 And Mikloth begot Shimeam. They also dwelt alongside their relatives in Jerusalem, with their brethren.

39 Ner begot Kish, Kish begot Saul, and Saul begot Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Esh-Baal.

40 The son of Jonathan was Merib-Baal, and Merib-Baal begot Micah.

41 The sons of Micah were Pithon, Melech, Tahrea, and Ahaz.

42 And Ahaz begot Jarah; Jarah begot Alemeth, Azmaveth, and Zimri; and Zimri begot Moza;

43 Moza begot Binea, Rephaiah his son, Eleasah his son, and Azel his son.

44 And Azel had six sons whose names were these: Azrikam, Bocheru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan; these were the sons of Azel.

Journal:

• What are some natural abilities, spiritual gifts, or passions God has placed inside of me? Which ones do I enjoy using most?
• Have I been overlooking certain ministry opportunities because they don’t seem important, exciting, or visible enough? How might God use me in those areas?
• Which specific ministry positions might be a good fit for my personal giftings? For example, hospitality, teaching, administration, encouragement, prayer, creativity, serving, leadership, or helps.
• Have I been faithfully attending church but haven’t taken the step to get involved? If so, what’s been holding me back? What is one step I can take this week to begin serving?
• Is there a gifting or passion God has been stirring in me that I’ve been hesitant to use? What’s one step I can take to begin using it?
• How can I use my current position, responsibilities, and everyday opportunities to help someone else experience the love of Jesus this week?

God sees more than a name on a list

These were heads of the fathers’ houses by their generations, chief men. These dwelt in Jerusalem. ~ 1 Chronicles 8:28

Here we go again with a long list of names that can make us wondered what in the world are we  supposed to take away from this portion of scripture? You might even find yourself thinking, Lord, I know every word in Your Word is important, but what am I supposed to do with a list of names I can barely pronounce? We might be tempted to skim over chapters like this, but there’s something beautiful hidden in the details. God was keeping track of people, families, generations, and the history of His people. These weren’t just names on a page. They represented lives, families, decisions, and a part of God’s bigger story.

In today’s scripture reading, we read about the descendants of Benjamin. Generation after generation is recorded, including family leaders, warriors, and people who lived in Jerusalem. It might seem like a history lesson with a lot of names and not much application for today. But there’s a powerful reminder in this chapter that God has always been interested in people, not just what they accomplish, but who they are, where they come from, and how they contribute to His purposes. We live in a world that puts so much emphasis on being noticed, having a platform, building a reputation, and making a name for ourselves. Yet God reminds us that our lives are part of something much bigger than our own accomplishments.

Here are three important truths we can take from this chapter that can change how we see our lives and the part we play in God’s Kingdom.

1. Your name may not be famous, but it’s known by God.

One of the things that stands out in this chapter is the number of names God chose to preserve in Scripture. Some of these individuals aren’t mentioned anywhere else in the Bible. We don’t know their personal stories, their struggles, or what their everyday lives looked like. Yet God made sure their names were recorded. That tells me something important. Just because the world doesn’t recognize your name doesn’t mean your life goes unnoticed by God.

We live in a culture that constantly encourages us to get noticed. Social media makes it easy to measure our influence by likes, comments, followers, and how many people acknowledge what we’re doing. But God’s measurement system is very different. He sees the person who quietly serves, the mother who faithfully raises her children, the person who shows up early to help, and the one who prays for someone when nobody else even knows there’s a need. He sees the acts of obedience that never make it onto anyone’s highlight reel.

Maybe you’re in a season where you feel overlooked. You’re doing your best to serve your family, encourage others, work hard, or fulfill the mission God has you on, but nobody seems to notice. Don’t let the lack of recognition make you question the value of your assignment. You don’t need a spotlight to make a difference in the Kingdom of God. You might be the person who sends an encouraging text at just the right time, takes a few minutes to listen to someone who’s hurting, or faithfully serves in a ministry when nobody is handing out awards. Those things matter to God. Remember, heaven doesn’t need a popularity contest to determine your value. Your Father already knows your name!

2. What you build today can influence generations tomorrow.

This passage is essentially a record of generations. We see fathers, sons, descendants, and family lines continuing from one generation to the next. What I find interesting is that these people were part of a story that continued long after their own lives were over. They weren’t living in isolation. Their lives were connected to those who came before them and those who would come after them. Each person held hands with the previous and the next generation that came after them.

That should make us think about the legacy we’re building. Every day, we’re influencing someone, whether we realize it or not. The way we handle disappointment, the words we speak, the decisions we make, and the way we treat people are all leaving an impression. We might not see the results immediately, but the seeds we plant today can produce fruit in someone else’s life tomorrow.

This is especially important when it comes to passing our faith to the next generation. Our children, grandchildren, younger believers, and those who are watching our lives are learning more than we sometimes realize. They’re watching how we respond when life doesn’t go our way. They’re listening to how we talk about people who have hurt us. They’re noticing whether our faith is something we talk about on Sunday or something we actually live out on Monday.

Maybe you have a family member who doesn’t know the Lord yet. Don’t underestimate the power of your prayers and your example. Maybe you have an opportunity to encourage a younger woman in her faith, share something God has taught you, or simply let your children see you trust God when circumstances are difficult. You don’t have to be perfect to leave a godly legacy. You just need to be willing to let God work through your life. The faithfulness you demonstrate today may become the foundation someone else stands on tomorrow.

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As we read through the names in this chapter, we discover that some were identified as heads of families, leaders, and mighty warriors. They had different responsibilities, but they were all part of the same family line. Not everyone had the same position, but everyone had a place in the story.

I love that reminder because it’s easy to compare our assignments with someone else’s. We see what another person is doing and begin to wonder if we’re doing enough, if we’re qualified enough, or if our contribution is making any difference. Sometimes we even convince ourselves that someone else would do a better job. But God never intended for us to spend our lives trying to fulfill someone else’s assignment.

Think about it. A family can’t function if everyone insists on being the head of the household. Somebody has to do the dishes, somebody has to take out the trash, and somebody has to remember where everybody put their shoes! Different responsibilities are necessary for a family to function. It’s the same in God’s family. We need leaders, encouragers, teachers, intercessors, servants, and people who are willing to step into whatever opportunity God puts in front of them.

Maybe God has been nudging you to serve in an area where you don’t feel qualified. Perhaps you’ve been comparing yourself with someone who seems to have more experience or confidence. Instead of disqualifying yourself, ask God to help you recognize the gifts He’s placed within you. Maybe your assignment right now isn’t standing in front of a crowd. Maybe it’s faithfully praying for someone, helping a new believer grow, serving behind the scenes, or being available when someone needs encouragement. Don’t dismiss the importance of what God has placed in your hands simply because it looks different from what He’s placed in someone else’s.

Today I want to encourage you to remember that your life is part of God’s bigger story. First Chronicles 8 may look like a chapter filled with names and family records, but it reminds us that God sees individuals, values generations, and gives every member of His family a place in His purposes. You don’t have to make a famous name for yourself to make a difference in His Kingdom. You don’t have to do everything someone else is doing, and you don’t have to wait until you feel completely qualified to say yes to God.

Be faithful with the people He’s placed in your life, the opportunities He’s given you, and the gifts He’s entrusted to you. Someone is watching your life, someone may be encouraged by your obedience, and someone in the next generation may be standing stronger because you chose to live faithfully today. You may never know the full impact of your life this side of heaven, but God does. So keep showing up, keep serving, keep loving, and keep saying yes to Him. Your name is known by God, your life has purpose, and your story is part of something eternal!

Today’s scripture reading: 1 Chronicles 8

1 Now Benjamin begot Bela his firstborn, Ashbel the second, Aharah the third,

2 Nohah the fourth, and Rapha the fifth.

3 The sons of Bela were Addar, Gera, Abihud,

4 Abishua, Naaman, Ahoah,

5 Gera, Shephuphan, and Huram.

6 These are the sons of Ehud, who were the heads of the fathers’ houses of the inhabitants of Geba, and who forced them to move to Manahath:

7 Naaman, Ahijah, and Gera who forced them to move. He begot Uzza and Ahihud.

8 Also Shaharaim had children in the country of Moab, after he had sent away Hushim and Baara his wives.

9 By Hodesh his wife he begot Jobab, Zibia, Mesha, Malcam,

10 Jeuz, Sachiah, and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of their fathers’ houses.

11 And by Hushim he begot Abitub and Elpaal.

12 The sons of Elpaal were Eber, Misham, and Shemed, who built Ono and Lod with its towns;

13 and Beriah and Shema, who were heads of their fathers’ houses of the inhabitants of Aijalon, who drove out the inhabitants of Gath.

14 Ahio, Shashak, Jeremoth,

15 Zebadiah, Arad, Eder,

16 Michael, Ispah, and Joha were the sons of Beriah.

17 Zebadiah, Meshullam, Hizki, Heber,

18 Ishmerai, Jizliah, and Jobab were the sons of Elpaal.

19 Jakim, Zichri, Zabdi,

20 Elienai, Zillethai, Eliel,

21 Adaiah, Beraiah, and Shimrath were the sons of Shimei.

22 Ishpan, Eber, Eliel,

23 Abdon, Zichri, Hanan,

24 Hananiah, Elam, Antothijah,

25 Iphdeiah, and Penuel were the sons of Shashak.

26 Shamsherai, Shehariah, Athaliah,

27 Jaareshiah, Elijah, and Zichri were the sons of Jeroham.

28 These were heads of the fathers’ houses by their generations, chief men. These dwelt in Jerusalem.

29 Now the father of Gibeon, whose wife’s name was Maacah, dwelt at Gibeon.

30 And his firstborn son was Abdon, then Zur, Kish, Baal, Nadab,

31 Gedor, Ahio, Zecher,

32 and Mikloth, who begot Shimeah. They also dwelt alongside their relatives in Jerusalem, with their brethren.

33 Ner begot Kish, Kish begot Saul, and Saul begot Jonathan, Malchishua, Abinadab, and Esh-Baal.

34 The son of Jonathan was Merib-Baal, and Merib-Baal begot Micah.

35 The sons of Micah were Pithon, Melech, Tarea, and Ahaz.

36 And Ahaz begot Jehoaddah; Jehoaddah begot Alemeth, Azmaveth, and Zimri; and Zimri begot Moza.

37 Moza begot Binea, Raphah his son, Eleasah his son, and Azel his son.

38 Azel had six sons whose names were these: Azrikam, Bocheru, Ishmael, Sheariah, Obadiah, and Hanan. All these were the sons of Azel.

39 And the sons of Eshek his brother were Ulam his firstborn, Jeush the second, and Eliphelet the third.

40 The sons of Ulam were mighty men of valor—archers. They had many sons and grandsons, one hundred and fifty in all. These were all sons of Benjamin.

Journal:

• Have I been measuring my value by how much other people notice or recognize what I do? What does knowing that God sees me change about the way I view my life?
• What kind of spiritual legacy am I building through my everyday words, choices, and actions? Who in my life might be influenced by the example I’m setting?
• Have I been comparing my assignment with someone else’s? Is there an opportunity God has placed in front of me that I’ve been hesitant to step into?
• What is one practical thing I can do this week to invest in someone else’s faith and encourage the next generation?
• If someone were to look at my life years from now, what would I want them to remember about the way I loved God and served His people?

The Faithful Church

“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” ~ Revelation 3:8

Have you ever stood in front of an open door and wondered whether you should walk through it? Maybe it was an opportunity, a new assignment, a conversation, or a step of faith that required you to trust God beyond what you could see. Sometimes we’re so busy looking for the next big opportunity that we walk right past the door God has already opened! In today’s scripture reading, Jesus speaks to a church that didn’t have impressive strength, great influence, or a long list of accomplishments. Yet, He had something wonderful to say about them. They were faithful. What made them faithful is something we can learn from today.

The church of Philadelphia was one of the seven churches Jesus addressed in Revelation. Unlike some of the other churches, Jesus didn’t begin with a rebuke. Instead, He commended them for their faithfulness. He said they had a little strength, had kept His Word, and had not denied His name. I love that description because it reminds us that God isn’t looking for us to be the strongest, most influential, or most impressive people in the room. He’s looking for people who will remain faithful to Him.

Jesus also told them He had set an open door before them that no one could shut. He acknowledged the opposition they faced, including those who falsely claimed to belong to God’s people. He promised that their faithfulness would be made known and that their perseverance mattered. He also encouraged them to hold fast to what they had so no one could take their crown. Their strength wasn’t found in their circumstances. It was found in their commitment to Jesus.

So, what does this faithful church teach us about living for God in today’s world? I believe there are three important truths we can take from their example.

1. Faithfulness isn’t about how much strength you have, it’s about what you do with what you have.

Jesus said they had a little strength. He didn’t say they were mighty in number, powerful in influence, or able to overcome every obstacle on their own. They simply had a little strength, but they used it to remain faithful. They kept His Word and refused to deny His name. Sometimes we think we need to have everything figured out before we can make a difference for God. We think we need more confidence, more knowledge, more resources, or more ability. But Jesus commended this church for what they did with the strength they had. Faithfulness isn’t measured by how impressive we look to others. It’s demonstrated by our willingness to trust God and obey Him, even when things are difficult.

Here’s how you can get started today:

Maybe you’re walking through a difficult season in your family, facing pressure at work, or dealing with circumstances that have left you feeling stretched thin. You may not feel particularly strong right now, but you can still choose to be faithful. You can continue praying when the answers haven’t come, speak God’s truth when the world is speaking something different, and make the right choice when taking the easy way out would be more convenient.

• Start with God’s Word. Set aside 10 to 15 minutes each day to read Scripture. Begin with the Gospel of John or one of the Psalms. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what you’re reading and show you how to put it into practice.
• Be faithful in the small things. Keep your word, treat people with kindness, honor God in your decisions, and do what you know is right even when nobody is watching.
• Don’t wait until you feel strong. When you’re discouraged, pray anyway. When you’re tired, take the next step. When you don’t know what to do, ask God for wisdom. Remember, His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

You don’t have to be the strongest person in the room to be faithful. You just have to keep trusting the One who is!

2. God opens doors, but we have to be willing to walk through them.

Jesus told the church in Philadelphia that He had set an open door before them that no one could shut. What an amazing promise! The door represented an opportunity that came from Him, and no amount of opposition could ultimately prevent His purpose from being accomplished. I believe this is an important reminder for us because God still gives us opportunities to fulfill His purposes today. Sometimes those opportunities look like a new assignment, a ministry opportunity, a relationship, or a chance to share the Gospel with someone who needs to hear it. Other times, the open door is much less obvious. It may be the person sitting next to you who needs encouragement or the opportunity to show God’s love in an ordinary situation. The challenge is not to become so distracted by the things happening around us that you fail to recognize what’s right in front of you. We spend so much time asking God to open another door that we overlook the one He’s already placed right in front of us!

Here’s how you can get started today:

Start paying attention to the opportunities God places in your everyday life. Don’t assume that every open door is from God, but don’t automatically dismiss an opportunity simply because it seems too big or even too little. Pray for wisdom, examine it through God’s Word, and be willing to take a step when He gives you direction.

• Ask God to show you your next step. Instead of asking Him to reveal your entire future, ask, “Lord, what have You placed in front of me today that I need to be faithful with?”
• Look for opportunities to serve. Is there someone who needs encouragement, a neighbor who needs help, or a person who needs to hear about Jesus? Don’t underestimate the impact of a simple act of obedience.
• Stop allowing fear to make your decisions. Sometimes we walk past opportunities because we’re afraid of failing, being misunderstood, or not having enough ability. Remember, if God is leading you, you can trust Him to provide the wisdom and strength you need.
• Be willing to move. When you’ve prayed, sought wisdom, and recognize the opportunity God has placed before you, don’t spend the next six months standing in the doorway wondering whether you should go in!

God doesn’t always show us the whole path, but He will give us the direction we need for the next step.

3. Faithfulness means holding on until the finish.

Jesus told the church in Philadelphia to hold fast to what they had so no one could take their crown. In other words, don’t let go of the very things that have kept you faithful. They had persevered through opposition, remained committed to His Word, and refused to deny His name. Now Jesus was encouraging them to keep going. I think this is something we all need to hear because it’s one thing to begin a journey with excitement, but it’s another thing to remain faithful when the journey gets difficult. It’s easy to be enthusiastic when everything is going well. But what happens when prayers seem unanswered, people disappoint us, or the road gets longer than we expected? That’s when our commitment to Jesus becomes especially important. We aren’t called to follow Him only when it’s convenient. We’re called to remain faithful through every season.

Jesus also gave them a promise concerning the coming trial that would test those who dwell on the earth. This was a specific promise to the church in Philadelphia, and it reminds us that Jesus knows the trials His people face. He sees their perseverance, and He is faithful to His promises. We may not understand every detail of what lies ahead, but we can trust the One who does.

Here’s how you can get started today:

Don’t allow a difficult season to convince you that your faithfulness doesn’t matter. Maybe you’ve been praying for a family member for years, serving in a ministry that doesn’t always receive recognition, or standing on God’s promises while waiting for something to change. Keep going! Your obedience matters, even when you don’t see immediate results.

• Establish a consistent time with God. Don’t make your relationship with Him dependent on how busy or difficult your day happens to be. Start with a simple daily routine of prayer and Scripture.
• Memorize a promise from God’s Word. Choose a verse that strengthens your faith and keep it in front of you. Write it on a note, put it somewhere you’ll see it, and speak it when discouragement comes.
• Stay connected to other believers. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you, pray with you, and help you stay strong when life gets difficult.
• Remember why you started. Think about God’s faithfulness in your own life. Remember the prayers He has answered, the times He has rescued you, and the ways He has carried you through difficult seasons. Let those reminders strengthen your faith for what’s ahead.

Don’t give up simply because the journey is taking longer than you expected. God’s faithfulness hasn’t changed, and He is worthy of your continued trust.

Today I want to encourage you to become one of the faithful ones! You don’t have to be the strongest, most talented, or most influential person. You simply need to be willing to trust God with the strength you have, keep His Word, and never be ashamed of the name of Jesus. Pay attention to the open doors He places before you. Don’t become so distracted by what the world is offering that you miss the purpose He has for your life. When opposition comes, hold fast. When you’re tired, draw on His strength. When you don’t know what comes next, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your steps.

Remember, the church in Philadelphia didn’t receive praise because everything was easy. They were commended because they remained faithful in the middle of what was difficult. Let’s be people who do the same. Keep your heart close to Jesus, keep His Word in your heart, and keep walking through the doors He opens. Your greatest reward isn’t simply what you accomplish along the way. It’s hearing your Savior say that you were faithful!

Today’s Scripture Reading: Revelation 3:7–13

7 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write,

‘These things says He who is holy, He who is true, “He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens”:

8 “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.

9 Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.

10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.

11 Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.

12 He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.

13 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’

Journal:

• Jesus commended the church in Philadelphia for having a little strength, keeping His Word, and not denying His name. Where do you need to be more intentional about remaining faithful in your life right now?
• Is there an opportunity or open door God may have placed before you that you’ve been hesitant to walk through? What has been holding you back, and what is one step you can take?
• When life gets difficult, what tends to challenge your perseverance the most? What promise from God’s Word can you hold on to during those seasons?
• What does being known as a faithful follower of Jesus look like in your everyday life? What is one practical thing you can begin doing today to strengthen your walk with Him?

The Dead Church

_{He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. ~ Revelation 3:5}

Have you ever wondered how someone can sit in church, know all the right answers, sing the worship songs, and even serve in ministry, yet slowly drift away from the very relationship that brought them there in the first place? It’s possible to look spiritually alive on the outside while something is dying on the inside. That’s exactly what Jesus addressed when He spoke to the church in Sardis. They had a reputation for being alive, but Jesus saw something very different. He told them they were dead! That’s a sobering thought. It reminds us that what people see on the outside isn’t necessarily what God sees happening in our hearts.

There has been a great deal of discussion within the body of believers about eternal security and the question of whether someone can lose their salvation. Some believe in the doctrine of once saved, always saved, while others believe a person can walk away from their salvation. Having experienced seasons in my own life when my choices weren’t exactly pleasing to the Lord, I’ve spent time thinking about this very subject. I’ve come to understand some things through my own journey and through studying God’s Word that have helped me appreciate the importance of staying close to Him.

In today’s key verse, Jesus makes a promise to those who overcome. He says they will be clothed in white garments, and He will not blot their names out of the Book of Life. That raises an interesting question. Does this mean there is a possibility of names being blotted out? Does God actually have a blotter? I have to admit, that question never crossed my mind when I was younger because I held firmly to the once saved, always saved understanding of salvation.

Then I think about my own life. There were years when I lived in ways that were far from the spiritual life God wanted for me. Yet, even during those seasons, I still called on Him when I needed help, and He was faithful to come to my rescue. He didn’t abandon me. He continued to show me His mercy, even when I wasn’t making the best decisions. No matter how low I got, when I called out to Him, He was there. That experience strengthened my understanding of His faithfulness and the security we have in His love.

But then I heard about someone who had been part of the Christian faith for many years and suddenly decided they no longer wanted to be a Christian. This person publicly renounced their faith and their belief in salvation through the blood of Jesus. I was confused. Can someone do that? How does that fit with the idea of once saved, always saved? If salvation is a gift, can someone decide they no longer want it?

As I was thinking about this, I sensed the Holy Spirit speaking to my heart about the gift of salvation and the free will God has given us. If someone no longer wants His gift of salvation and love, they have the ability to reject what He has offered. Think about receiving a valuable gift from someone. The giver may have put a great deal of thought and love into giving it to you, but you still have the choice to receive it, treasure it, or walk away from it. The value of the gift doesn’t change just because someone chooses not to keep it.

It breaks my heart to think that someone could know about God’s love for years and eventually decide they don’t want Him anymore. Does that mean they were never truly saved, or did they make a conscious decision to walk away from their faith? Only God knows the condition of someone’s heart. I don’t believe we are called to make that judgment. What I do know is that Jesus took the condition of the church in Sardis seriously. He called them to wake up, strengthen what remained, remember what they had received and heard, hold fast, and repent.

That message is important for us today. We can’t become so comfortable with our Christian routines that we forget to nurture our relationship with Jesus. Attending church, knowing Scripture, serving in ministry, and being surrounded by other believers are all good things, but none of them should take the place of personally knowing Him. We can have a reputation for being spiritually alive while neglecting the very relationship that gives us life. Jesus isn’t looking for a religious performance. He wants our hearts.

Here are some practical ways we can strengthen our walk with Him and keep our hearts attentive to His voice:

1. Make your relationship with Jesus a daily priority. Don’t let your time with Him become something you squeeze into whatever minutes are left at the end of the day. Start by setting aside 10 to 15 minutes each morning to pray, read Scripture, and spend time with Him. You don’t have to begin with an hour long Bible study and a stack of commentaries. Just begin somewhere and be consistent!
2. Remember what you have received. This passage reminds the church to remember what they had received and heard. Take time to revisit the truths that first drew you to Jesus. Remember what He has forgiven, where He has brought you from, and how faithful He has been. Write down some of the ways He has worked in your life so you can revisit them when your faith feels weak.
3. Strengthen what remains. Jesus told Sardis to strengthen the things that were ready to die. Ask yourself where your spiritual life may have become neglected. Have you stopped praying regularly? Have you allowed distractions to take the place of God’s Word? Start rebuilding those areas one decision at a time. You don’t have to change everything overnight, but you do need to take the next step.
4. Hold fast to His Word and repent when necessary. Don’t ignore the Holy Spirit when He brings something to your attention that needs to change. Repentance isn’t about running away from God in shame. It’s about turning back toward Him and receiving His grace. When you recognize you’ve gone in the wrong direction, don’t wait until tomorrow to make things right.
5. Stay connected to other believers. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to grow in your faith, pray with you, and point you back to God’s truth. We weren’t designed to walk this journey alone. Be intentional about building relationships with people who will help strengthen your walk with Jesus.
6. Keep your heart tender toward the Lord. Don’t allow familiarity with spiritual things to replace a genuine hunger for God. Continue asking Him to teach you, correct you, and show you more of His love. A healthy relationship requires communication, and that means we need to do more than talk. We need to listen, too!

Today I want to encourage you to take an honest look at the condition of your relationship with Jesus. Don’t settle for having a reputation of being spiritually alive while neglecting the relationship that gives you life. Jesus called the church in Sardis to wake up, strengthen what remained, remember His Word, hold fast, and repent. That same message is a powerful reminder for us today. Your salvation isn’t something to take lightly, and your relationship with Jesus isn’t something to put on autopilot. If you’ve drifted, turn back toward Him. If you’ve grown comfortable, stir up your hunger for His presence. If you’ve allowed distractions to pull you away, make the decision to put Him first again.

Don’t wait until a crisis comes to discover how close you are to Him. Build that relationship today. He has been faithful to you, and He is worthy of your continued love, devotion, and obedience. Remember, Jesus isn’t looking for a name on a church membership list. He wants a heart that belongs to Him. Live in such a way that your faith is more than a reputation. Let it be a living, breathing relationship with the One who saved you!

Today’s scripture reading:  revelation 3:1-6

1 “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write,

‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.

2Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God.

3Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.

4You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.

5He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.

6“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’

Journal:

• If Jesus were to describe the condition of your spiritual life today, would He see someone who is spiritually awake and growing, or someone who has become comfortable with the routine of Christianity? What might He be asking you to strengthen?
• Can you remember a season when you drifted away from God but experienced His faithfulness when you called on Him? What does that experience teach you about His love and mercy?
• Are there distractions, habits, relationships, or priorities that have been taking time and attention away from your relationship with Jesus? What is one practical change you can make this week?
• What does it mean to you personally to hold fast to your faith? What can you begin doing today to keep your relationship with Jesus strong and growing?

Life goes on

And his wife conceived and bore a son; and he called his name Beriah, because tragedy had come upon his house. ~ 1 Chronicles 7:23

Have you ever experienced a season when life didn’t turn out the way you expected, but somehow the calendar kept moving, the sun kept rising, and responsibilities kept calling your name? Sometimes life brings unexpected heartache, disappointments, loss, and circumstances that leave us wondering how we’re supposed to move forward and still, life goes on. Not because everything is suddenly okay, but because God is still at work, His promises are still true, and He still has a purpose for our lives. We may not always get to choose what happens to us, but with God’s help, we can choose how we move forward.

Today’s scripture reading is another chapter filled with family names, generations, descendants, and accounts of mighty men of valor. At first glance, it might seem like another long list of names that can be easy to skip over! But tucked into this genealogy is a powerful little story that deserves attention. In verse 23, we read about a man named Ephraim who experienced a terrible tragedy in his household. Scripture doesn’t give us all the details of his circumstances, but it does tell us that after this tragedy, he had another son and named him Beriah because sorrow had come upon his house. His family had experienced heartbreak, but their story didn’t end there. Life went on, and a new generation was born. What a beautiful reminder that even when life brings seasons we never expected, God is still able to bring new beginnings, fresh purpose, and hope for tomorrow.

Here are three important truths in this chapter that remind us how to keep moving forward as God’s people, even when life doesn’t go according to plan.

1. Don’t let yesterday’s tragedy determine tomorrow’s possibilities.

In this passage, Ephraim’s family experienced a devastating loss, yet the story didn’t end with that tragedy. Another son was born, and life continued. I find it somewhat comforting that the Bible doesn’t hide the painful part of this family’s story. It records the sorrow right alongside the new beginning. Sometimes we think that having faith means we shouldn’t experience sadness, disappointment, or difficult seasons. But that’s simply not true. Faith doesn’t mean we never hurt again. It means we know where to turn when we do. God never promised that we would walk through life without trouble, but He did promise that He would never leave us or forsake us.

There may be things in your past that you wish had turned out differently, relationships that didn’t survive, opportunities that slipped away, or prayers that weren’t answered the way you hoped. Perhaps you’ve experienced a season that left you feeling like you’ve lost more than you can recover. But I want you to remember that your past doesn’t have to write the rest of your story. God is still able to bring beauty from broken places and purpose from painful experiences.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

Maybe you’ve experienced disappointment in your workplace, a difficult family situation, or a ministry opportunity that didn’t turn out the way you expected. Instead of allowing that disappointment to keep you from moving forward, ask God to show you what He has next. Maybe He has another opportunity, another person who needs your encouragement, or a new assignment that you haven’t even considered. Don’t spend so much time wishing yesterday had been different that you miss what God is doing today. You can grieve what you’ve lost and still have hope for what is ahead. Both can exist at the same time. Remember, God isn’t finished writing your story!

2. God can use ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.

One of the interesting details in this chapter is found in verse 24, where we read about Ephraim’s daughter, Sheerah. Scripture tells us that she built Lower and Upper Beth-horon and Uzzen-sheerah. Think about that for a moment. In a chapter filled with the names of sons, warriors, and descendants, this woman’s contribution is specifically recorded. She was a builder! She didn’t just occupy space in her family history, she made a difference in the world around her.

I love that Scripture takes the time to mention what she accomplished. It reminds us that God has a purpose for every one of us, and we shouldn’t underestimate what He can do through our lives. Sometimes we think making a difference requires a big platform, a special title, or a position of influence. But the truth is, some of the most important things we will ever build won’t make the headlines. We build when we encourage someone who is struggling, invest in the next generation, create an atmosphere where people feel welcome, or faithfully serve where God has placed us. We may never know how many lives are impacted by the things we do in obedience to Him.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

Take a look at what God has placed in your hands right now. Maybe you’re raising children, leading a small group, serving in your church, encouraging a coworker, or caring for someone who needs a little extra love. Don’t dismiss those things as ordinary. You may be building something that will impact generations to come. Perhaps you’re the person who consistently sends an encouraging message, prays for someone who is struggling, or takes time to listen when everyone else is too busy. Those things matter! You don’t have to wait until you have a bigger opportunity to make a difference. Start building right where you are. Like Sheerah, you may be accomplishing more than you realize.

3. Keep moving forward because God is still building your legacy.

Throughout this chapter, we see generation after generation recorded. We read about families, mighty men of valor, leaders, and descendants who continued to grow and multiply. Their names were recorded because their lives were part of a much bigger story. One generation was connected to another, and the story continued.

This reminds us that our faith isn’t meant to stop with us. God has called us to live in such a way that the people coming behind us can see what it looks like to trust Him, follow His Word, and remain faithful through every season of life. We don’t always get to see the full impact of our obedience, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t making a difference. Think about the people who invested in your life, prayed for you, encouraged you, and helped you grow in your faith. Their influence is still producing fruit in your life today. Now it’s our turn to do the same for someone else. We aren’t just living for today, we’re helping build a foundation for tomorrow’s generation.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

Look for opportunities to intentionally invest in someone else’s faith. Share what God has taught you through your experiences, encourage a younger believer, pray with your children, or take time to tell someone how God has been faithful in your life. Don’t assume people know what you believe simply because they see you going to church. Let them see your faith in action when life gets difficult. When you face a challenge, let them see you pray. When you’re disappointed, let them see you trust God. When you make a mistake, let them see you turn to Him for forgiveness and direction. Your example may be one of the greatest gifts you leave behind. You may not all have your name recorded in a genealogy like the people in 1 Chronicles, but you can leave a legacy of faith that continues long after you’re gone.

Today I want to encourage you to keep moving forward, even when life hasn’t turned out the way you expected. Don’t allow yesterday’s disappointments to steal your hope for tomorrow. The same God who carried Ephraim’s family through tragedy is the God who is walking with you through every season of your life. He can bring new beginnings after loss, use your ordinary obedience to accomplish extraordinary things, and make your life a testimony of His faithfulness for generations to come.

You may not understand everything that’s happened along the way, but you can trust the One who knows the beginning from the end. So keep praying, keep believing, keep serving, and keep building. There are still people who need your encouragement, lives that need to be touched, and opportunities waiting for you to step into. Life goes on, and thankfully, God will go with you! Your story isn’t over, and the best thing you can do today is give God your next chapter.

Today’s scripture reading: 1 Chronicles 7

1 The sons of Issachar were Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron—four in all.

2 The sons of Tola were Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Jibsam, and Shemuel, heads of their father’s house. The sons of Tola were mighty men of valor in their generations; their number in the days of David was twenty-two thousand six hundred.

3 The son of Uzzi was Izrahiah, and the sons of Izrahiah were Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Ishiah. All five of them were chief men.

4 And with them, by their generations, according to their fathers’ houses, were thirty-six thousand troops ready for war; for they had many wives and sons.

5 Now their brethren among all the families of Issachar were mighty men of valor, listed by their genealogies, eighty-seven thousand in all.

6 The sons of Benjamin were Bela, Becher, and Jediael—three in all.

7 The sons of Bela were Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri—five in all. They were heads of their fathers’ houses, and they were listed by their genealogies, twenty-two thousand and thirty-four mighty men of valor.

8 The sons of Becher were Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jerimoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth. All these are the sons of Becher.

9 And they were recorded by genealogy according to their generations, heads of their fathers’ houses, twenty thousand two hundred mighty men of valor.

10 The son of Jediael was Bilhan, and the sons of Bilhan were Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Chenaanah, Zethan, Tharshish, and Ahishahar.

11 All these sons of Jediael were heads of their fathers’ houses; there were seventeen thousand two hundred mighty men of valor fit to go out for war and battle.

12 Shuppim and Huppim were the sons of Ir, and Hushim was the son of Aher.

13 The sons of Naphtali were Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shallum, the sons of Bilhah.

14 The descendants of Manasseh: his Syrian concubine bore him Machir the father of Gilead, the father of Asriel.

15 Machir took as his wife the sister of Huppim and Shuppim, whose name was Maachah. The name of Gilead’s grandson was Zelophehad, but Zelophehad begot only daughters.

16 (Maachah the wife of Machir bore a son, and she called his name Peresh. The name of his brother was Sheresh, and his sons were Ulam and Rakem.

17 The son of Ulam was Bedan.) These were the descendants of Gilead the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh.

18 His sister Hammoleketh bore Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah.

19 And the sons of Shemida were Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam.

20 The sons of Ephraim were Shuthelah, Bered his son, Tahath his son, Eladah his son, Tahath his son,

21 Zabad his son, Shuthelah his son, and Ezer and Elead. The men of Gath who were born in that land killed them because they came down to take away their cattle.

22 Then Ephraim their father mourned many days, and his brethren came to comfort him.

23 And when he went in to his wife, she conceived and bore a son; and he called his name Beriah, because tragedy had come upon his house.

24 Now his daughter was Sheerah, who built Lower and Upper Beth Horon and Uzzen Sheerah;

25 and Rephah was his son, as well as Resheph, and Telah his son, Tahan his son,

26 Laadan his son, Ammihud his son, Elishama his son,

27 Nun his son, and Joshua his son.

28 Now their possessions and dwelling places were Bethel and its towns: to the east Naaran, to the west Gezer and its towns, and Shechem and its towns, as far as Ayyah and its towns;

29 and by the borders of the children of Manasseh were Beth Shean and its towns, Taanach and its towns, Megiddo and its towns, Dor and its towns. In these dwelt the children of Joseph, the son of Israel.

30 The sons of Asher were Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and their sister Serah.

31 The sons of Beriah were Heber and Malchiel, who was the father of Birzaith.

32 And Heber begot Japhlet, Shomer, Hotham, and their sister Shua.

33 The sons of Japhlet were Pasach, Bimhal, and Ashvath. These were the children of Japhlet.

34 The sons of Shemer were Ahi, Rohgah, Jehubbah, and Aram.

35 And the sons of his brother Helem were Zophah, Imna, Shelesh, and Amal.

36 The sons of Zophah were Suah, Harnepher, Shual, Beri, Imrah,

37 Bezer, Hod, Shamma, Shilshah, Jithran, and Beera.

38 The sons of Jether were Jephunneh, Pispah, and Ara.

39 The sons of Ulla were Arah, Haniel, and Rizia.

40All these were the children of Asher, heads of their fathers’ houses, choice men, mighty men of valor, chief leaders. And they were recorded by genealogies among the army fit for battle; their number was twenty-six thousand.

Journal:

• Have you experienced a disappointment or difficult season that has made it hard to move forward? What would it look like to trust God with your next chapter?
• What has God placed in your hands right now that you can use to make a difference in someone else’s life? Are there opportunities you’ve been overlooking because they seem too ordinary?
• Who has invested in your faith and helped shape the person you are today? How can you intentionally pass that same encouragement and faith on to someone else?
• What kind of spiritual legacy do you want to leave behind? What is one thing you can begin doing today to help build it?

Worship is more than a song

Now these are the men whom David appointed over the service of song in the house of the Lord, after the ark came to rest. They were ministering with music before the dwelling place of the tabernacle of meeting, until Solomon had built the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, and they served in their office according to their order. ~ 1 Chronicles 6:31-32 

Have you ever walked into church, heard the worship team begin to sing, and suddenly felt your heart shift? Maybe you came in carrying a heavy burden, thinking about everything waiting for you when you got home, or wondering how you’re going to handle the week ahead. Then a song begins, the words remind you of God’s goodness, and before long, your attention is no longer on everything happening around you. You’re focused on the One who holds it all together. That’s the power of worship!

When we read today’s scripture reading, we find a chapter filled with family lines, names, and responsibilities assigned to the Levites. It might be tempting to skim through those lists, but in the middle of this chapter there is something important about the ministry of worship. David appointed specific men to oversee the service of song in the house of the Lord. They weren’t simply musicians filling a spot on a schedule. They were ministering before the Lord and serving an important role among God’s people. Worship was ministry, and it was very important work.

This chapter reminds us that worship isn’t just something we attend on Sunday morning. It’s an opportunity to serve God, minister to others, and keep our hearts focused on Him. We may not all stand on a platform with a microphone in our hands, but every one of us has a part to play in creating an atmosphere where people are encouraged to know and honor God.

Here are three important truths we can learn from the ministry of worship in this chapter.

1. Worship is ministry, not a performance

This chapter tells us that David appointed men to serve through music before the Lord. Their assignment wasn’t about entertaining people or showing off their musical abilities. They were ministering through worship. There’s a difference between performing for an audience and ministering from a heart that wants to honor God. Worship isn’t about how impressive our voices are, how well we play an instrument, or whether we know every word to the latest worship song. It’s about the heart behind what we’re offering to God.

This is important for us today because it’s easy to become spectators instead of participants. We can attend a worship service, listen to the songs, and even know when to raise our hands, but never truly give God our attention. Worship invites us to move beyond simply hearing the music and begin offering our hearts to the Lord. And here’s the good news, you don’t have to carry a tune to worship God! Some of us should probably be grateful that worship isn’t judged by our ability to stay on key. God is interested in the heart. Every joyful noise lifted to Him is a blessing.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

• When you attend church, don’t wait for your favorite song before you engage in worship. Come ready to give God your praise, regardless of what song is playing.
• When you’re at home doing dishes, driving to work, or folding that never ending pile of laundry, turn your attention toward God and thank Him for His goodness. Yes, even laundry can become an opportunity to worship!
• When you serve in ministry, remember that you’re not just completing a task. Whether you’re greeting someone at the door, directing cars in the parking lot, serving in children’s ministry, or helping someone find a seat, you can serve with a heart that honors God.

Worship becomes powerful when we stop treating it as something we watch and begin understanding it as something we give.

2. Faithful worship requires preparation and commitment

The men appointed by David had a specific responsibility. They were assigned to serve in the ministry of song, and verse 32 of this chapter tells us they continued ministering with music according to their order. Their service wasn’t random or occasional. There was an established responsibility, and they faithfully carried it out.

This reminds us that worship is more than a spontaneous moment when we happen to feel like praising God. There are times when worship comes naturally because everything seems to be going well. Then there are other times when we have to make a choice to worship even when life feels difficult. True worship isn’t dependent on our circumstances. It’s rooted in who God is.

Think about it. Anyone can praise God when the bills are paid, the family is getting along, the doctor gives a good report, and everything is going according to plan. But what happens when the unexpected comes? What happens when you’re waiting for an answer, walking through disappointment, or facing something you never saw coming? That’s when our commitment to worship becomes especially important. We worship because God is still good, even when our circumstances aren’t.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

• Make worship part of your daily routine. You don’t have to wait until Sunday morning to spend time praising God. Start your day with a worship song, a Scripture, or a prayer of thanksgiving.
• When you’re facing a difficult situation, intentionally remind yourself of God’s faithfulness. Instead of allowing worry to become the loudest voice in your day, turn your attention toward the One who has never failed you.
• Be faithful in the ministry God has placed in your hands. You may not always feel appreciated, noticed, or even particularly talented, but your willingness to serve matters. Don’t let a lack of recognition discourage you from doing what God has called you to do.

Sometimes the greatest act of worship is choosing to praise God when you don’t feel like it. Your circumstances may change, but His character never does.

3. Worship helps lead others into the presence of God

The Levites who served through music weren’t working in isolation. Their ministry was part of the worship life of God’s people. Their assignment helped create an environment where the people could gather and honor the Lord. Their service had an impact beyond themselves.

We need to remember that worship is not just about what God does in us. It can also encourage and strengthen the people around us. Have you ever been in a worship service when someone else’s praise stirred something in your own heart? Maybe you watched someone worship through tears, even though you knew they were walking through a difficult season. Their faith encouraged you to keep trusting God. Sometimes our willingness to worship becomes a testimony to someone who needs hope.

As God’s people, we have an opportunity to point others toward Him through the way we live. Our words, attitudes, actions, and willingness to serve can all become expressions of worship. We don’t have to be on a stage to influence someone’s heart. We can worship through kindness, generosity, encouragement, prayer, and obedience. The world has plenty of people pointing out what’s wrong. Let’s be people who point others to the goodness of God!

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

• Be intentional about encouraging someone else’s faith. Send a Scripture, share a testimony, or let someone know you’re praying for them.
• When you gather with other believers, participate in worship with an open heart. Your praise may encourage someone who is struggling to find a reason to praise God themselves.
• Look for opportunities to make God’s goodness visible. Maybe it’s choosing patience when someone frustrates you, offering help to someone who feels overwhelmed, or taking time to pray with a friend who needs encouragement.

Never underestimate the influence of a life that consistently points people toward Jesus. Your worship may be the encouragement someone else needs to keep going.

Today I want to encourage you to see worship as more than a song we sing or a service we attend. First Chronicles 6 shows us that God appointed people to serve through worship, and their ministry was an important part of the life of His people. Today, we have that same opportunity to honor Him with our lives. Whether you’re singing in church, serving behind the scenes, praying for someone, or choosing to praise God in the middle of a difficult day, your worship matters. Don’t wait until everything is perfect to give God your praise. He is worthy in the good seasons and the difficult ones. Let your life become an offering of worship that honors Him and encourages others to draw closer to Him. You never know who might be strengthened by the way you choose to worship!

Today’s Scripture Reading: 1 Chronicles 6

1 The sons of Levi were Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.

2 The sons of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel.

3 The children of Amram were Aaron, Moses, and Miriam. And the sons of Aaron were Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.

4 Eleazar begot Phinehas, and Phinehas begot Abishua;

5 Abishua begot Bukki, and Bukki begot Uzzi;

6 Uzzi begot Zerahiah, and Zerahiah begot Meraioth;

7 Meraioth begot Amariah, and Amariah begot Ahitub;

8 Ahitub begot Zadok, and Zadok begot Ahimaaz;

9 Ahimaaz begot Azariah, and Azariah begot Johanan;

10 Johanan begot Azariah (it was he who ministered as priest in the temple that Solomon built in Jerusalem);

11 Azariah begot Amariah, and Amariah begot Ahitub;

12 Ahitub begot Zadok, and Zadok begot Shallum;

13 Shallum begot Hilkiah, and Hilkiah begot Azariah;

14 Azariah begot Seraiah, and Seraiah begot Jehozadak.

15 Jehozadak went into captivity when the Lord carried Judah and Jerusalem into captivity by the hand of Nebuchadnezzar.

16 The sons of Levi were Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.

17 These are the names of the sons of Gershon: Libni and Shimei.

18 The sons of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel.

19 The sons of Merari were Mahli and Mushi. Now these are the families of the Levites according to their fathers:

20 Of Gershon were Libni his son, Jahath his son, Zimmah his son,

21 Joah his son, Iddo his son, Zerah his son, and Jeatherai his son.

22 The sons of Kohath were Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,

23 Elkanah his son, Ebiasaph his son, Assir his son,

24 Tahath his son, Uriel his son, Uzziah his son, and Shaul his son.

25 The sons of Elkanah were Amasai and Ahimoth.

26 As for Elkanah, the sons of Elkanah were Zophai his son, Nahath his son,

27 Eliab his son, Jeroham his son, and Elkanah his son.

28 The sons of Samuel were Joel the firstborn, and Abijah the second.

29 The sons of Merari were Mahli, Libni his son, Shimei his son, Uzzah his son,

30 Shimea his son, Haggiah his son, and Asaiah his son.

31 Now these are the men whom David appointed over the service of song in the house of the Lord, after the ark came to rest.

32 They were ministering with music before the dwelling place of the tabernacle of meeting, until Solomon had built the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, and they served in their office according to their order.

33 And these are the ones who ministered with their sons: Of the sons of the Kohathites were Heman the singer, the son of Joel, the son of Samuel,

34 the son of Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Eliel, the son of Toah,

35 the son of Zuph, the son of Elkanah, the son of Mahath, the son of Amasai,

36 the son of Elkanah, the son of Joel, the son of Azariah, the son of Zephaniah,

37 the son of Tahath, the son of Assir, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah,

38 the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, the son of Israel.

39 And his brother Asaph, who stood at his right hand, was Asaph the son of Berachiah, the son of Shimea,

40 the son of Michael, the son of Baaseiah, the son of Malchijah,

41 the son of Ethni, the son of Zerah, the son of Adaiah,

42 the son of Ethan, the son of Zimmah, the son of Shimei,

43 the son of Jahath, the son of Gershon, the son of Levi.

44 Their brethren, the sons of Merari, on the left hand, were Ethan the son of Kishi, the son of Abdi, the son of Malluch,

45 the son of Hashabiah, the son of Amaziah, the son of Hilkiah,

46 the son of Amzi, the son of Bani, the son of Shamer,

47 the son of Mahli, the son of Mushi, the son of Merari, the son of Levi.

48 And their brethren, the Levites, were appointed to every kind of service of the tabernacle of the house of God.

49 But Aaron and his sons offered sacrifices on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense, for all the work of the Most Holy Place, and to make atonement for Israel, according to all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.

50 Now these are the sons of Aaron: Eleazar his son, Phinehas his son, Abishua his son,

51 Bukki his son, Uzzi his son, Zerahiah his son,

52 Meraioth his son, Amariah his son, Ahitub his son,

53 Zadok his son, and Ahimaaz his son.

54 Now these are their dwelling places throughout their settlements in their territory, for they were given by lot to the sons of Aaron, of the family of the Kohathites:

55 They gave them Hebron in the land of Judah, with its surrounding common-lands.

56 But the fields of the city and its villages they gave to Caleb the son of Jephunneh.

57 And to the sons of Aaron they gave one of the cities of refuge, Hebron; also Libnah with its common-lands, Jattir, Eshtemoa with its common-lands,

58 Hilen with its common-lands, Debir with its common-lands,

59 Ashan with its common-lands, and Beth Shemesh with its common-lands.

60 And from the tribe of Benjamin: Geba with its common-lands, Alemeth with its common-lands, and Anathoth with its common-lands. All their cities among their families were thirteen.

61 To the rest of the family of the tribe of the Kohathites they gave by lot ten cities from half the tribe of Manasseh.

62 And to the sons of Gershon, throughout their families, they gave thirteen cities from the tribe of Issachar, from the tribe of Asher, from the tribe of Naphtali, and from the tribe of Manasseh in Bashan.

63 To the sons of Merari, throughout their families, they gave twelve cities from the tribe of Reuben, from the tribe of Gad, and from the tribe of Zebulun.

64 So the children of Israel gave these cities with their common-lands to the Levites.

65 And they gave by lot from the tribe of the children of Judah, from the tribe of the children of Simeon, and from the tribe of the children of Benjamin these cities which are called by their names.

66 Now some of the families of the sons of Kohath were given cities as their territory from the tribe of Ephraim.

67 And they gave them one of the cities of refuge, Shechem with its common-lands, in the mountains of Ephraim, also Gezer with its common-lands,

68 Jokmeam with its common-lands, Beth Horon with its common-lands,

69 Aijalon with its common-lands, and Gath Rimmon with its common-lands.

70 And from the half-tribe of Manasseh: Aner with its common-lands and Bileam with its common-lands, for the rest of the family of the sons of Kohath.

71 From the family of the half-tribe of Manasseh the sons of Gershon were given Golan in Bashan with its common-lands and Ashtaroth with its common-lands.

72 And from the tribe of Issachar: Kedesh with its common-lands, Daberath with its common-lands,

73 Ramoth with its common-lands, and Anem with its common-lands.

74 And from the tribe of Asher: Mashal with its common-lands, Abdon with its common-lands,

75 Hukok with its common-lands, and Rehob with its common-lands.

76 And from the tribe of Naphtali: Kedesh in Galilee with its common-lands, Hammon with its common-lands, and Kirjathaim with its common-lands.

77 From the tribe of Zebulun the rest of the children of Merari were given Rimmon with its common-lands and Tabor with its common-lands.

78 And on the other side of the Jordan, across from Jericho, on the east side of the Jordan, they were given from the tribe of Reuben: Bezer in the wilderness with its common-lands, Jahzah with its common-lands,

79 Kedemoth with its common-lands, and Mephaath with its common-lands.

80 And from the tribe of Gad: Ramoth in Gilead with its common-lands, Mahanaim with its common-lands,

81 Heshbon with its common-lands, and Jazer with its common-lands.

Journal:

• Have I been approaching worship as something I participate in, or something I simply attend and observe?
• What are some practical ways I can make worship part of my everyday life, beyond Sunday morning?
• How do I respond when life becomes difficult? Do I continue to praise God even when I don’t understand what’s happening?
• Who in my life could be encouraged by my worship, testimony, or willingness to serve?
• What is one specific way I can offer my time, gifts, and heart to God this week?

Trust Him in the battles

And they were helped against them, and the Hagrites were delivered into their hand, and all who were with them, for they cried out to God in the battle. He heard their prayer, because they put their trust in Him. ~ 1 Chronicles 5:20

Have you ever found yourself in a battle you knew you couldn’t win on your own? Maybe you’ve done everything you know to do, tried every solution you can think of, and still haven’t seen a way through. Sometimes the greatest victory begins when we stop trying to fight in our own strength and start trusting the One who has never lost a battle.

In today’s scripture reading, we find an account of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh. Although much of the chapter describes their history, there’s an important event right in the middle of it that gives us a powerful lesson for today. These tribes had large numbers of warriors who were skilled and prepared for battle. They were equipped with shields, swords, bows, and the ability to fight. But when they went into battle against the Hagrites, something else made the difference. They cried out to God, put their trust in Him, and He answered their prayer.

I love that this passage doesn’t say they were helped because they had the largest army, the best weapons, the most impressive battle strategy or even because they were God’s people. It says they were helped because they cried out to God and trusted Him. They had prepared themselves for battle, but they knew their ultimate victory came from the Lord.

That doesn’t mean they sat back and did nothing. They were warriors who understood how to fight, but they also understood where their help came from. This is so important for us to recognize. God doesn’t ask us to ignore our responsibilities or stop taking practical steps. He wants us to recognize that our strength, wisdom, and ability to overcome come from Him. We can prepare, make wise decisions, seek godly counsel, and take action while still depending completely on God.

The battles we face today may look different from the ones described in this chapter, but we all face challenges that require God’s help. It may be a difficult relationship, a financial concern, a health challenge, a struggle with temptation, a decision about the future, or a situation involving someone we love. Whatever the battle, we don’t have to face it alone. We have a heavenly Father who hears us when we call on Him.

Here are three important truths in this passage that can help us face the battles in our own lives with confidence and faith.

1. Cry out to God instead of trying to handle everything yourself

The warriors in today’s chapter cried out to God in the middle of their battle. They recognized that their own strength wasn’t enough. Sometimes we get so busy trying to figure everything out that prayer becomes our last resort instead of our first response. We make phone calls, search for answers, ask everyone for advice, and worry ourselves into exhaustion before we finally stop and ask God for help. I’m not saying we shouldn’t take action, but we need to remember where our help comes from.

God invites us to bring our concerns to Him. He already knows what we’re facing, and He wants us to come to Him with confidence, knowing that He hears our prayers.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

• Begin your day by bringing your concerns and decisions to God instead of immediately allowing worry to take over.
• When a difficult situation arises, pause and pray before reacting emotionally.
• If you’re facing a financial challenge, ask God for wisdom while also taking practical steps to manage what He’s placed in your hands.
• If you’re dealing with a difficult relationship, ask Him to show you how to respond with grace, truth, and wisdom.
• When you don’t know what to do next, be honest with God. You don’t need fancy words or a perfectly worded prayer. He wants your heart.

Start by identifying one situation you’re currently trying to figure out on your own. Take it to God in prayer today. Tell Him what you’re facing, ask for His wisdom, and invite Him to direct your next steps. You don’t have to carry the entire situation on your shoulders.

2. Prepare for the battle, but put your trust in God

The tribes in this chapter weren’t unprepared. They had trained warriors and were equipped for battle. They understood the importance of being ready, but they also knew their victory depended on God. This reminds us that faith doesn’t mean we sit back and expect everything to happen without our participation. Faith means we do what God has called us to do while trusting Him with the outcome.

We need to prepare ourselves spiritually for the challenges we face. If we’re constantly feeding our minds with fear, negativity, and the world’s opinions, we’ll have a harder time recognizing God’s truth when challenges come. We need to fill our hearts with His Word so that when the battle begins, we know what to stand on.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

• Spend time in God’s Word before a crisis comes. Don’t wait until you’re in the middle of a storm to discover where your umbrella is!
• Memorize Scripture that strengthens your faith when fear, discouragement, or temptation comes.
• Prepare for difficult conversations by praying and asking the Holy Spirit to guide your words.
• If you’re facing an important decision, gather the information you need, seek wise counsel, and ask God for direction.
• Establish daily habits of prayer, worship, and obedience that strengthen your relationship with Him.

Start by choosing one area where you know you need to grow spiritually. Find a Scripture that speaks to that area and begin reading it, praying it, and putting it into practice. Don’t just collect Bible verses like refrigerator magnets. Let God’s Word become something you live by every day.

3. Trust God with the outcome and give Him the glory

The verse tells us that God heeded their prayer because they put their trust in Him. Their confidence wasn’t ultimately in their own ability to win. It was in the God who heard them. This is where our faith grows. We learn to trust God not only when we see the answer, but also while we’re waiting for it.

Sometimes God changes the circumstances. Sometimes He changes our perspective, gives us strength to endure, or leads us in a direction we hadn’t considered. We may not always understand how He is working, but we can remain confident in His character and His love for us.

When God brings us through a difficult season, we shouldn’t forget to give Him the credit. Our testimonies can encourage someone else who is facing a battle of their own. The victory God brings into our lives can become a reminder to others that He is faithful and hears the prayers of His people.

Here are some ways to put this point into action:

• When you pray, trust God’s wisdom and timing instead of insisting that He answer in exactly the way you expect.
• Keep a record of prayers and answered prayers so you can remember His faithfulness during difficult seasons.
• When fear begins to creep in, remind yourself of how God has helped you in the past.
• Share your testimony with someone who needs encouragement. Your story may be exactly what helps them keep trusting God.
• Thank God for His help, even in the middle of the battle, because His presence is not dependent on your circumstances.

Start by thinking about a time when God helped you through a difficult situation. Thank Him for what He did and write down what you remember about His faithfulness. Then ask Him to help you trust Him with the situation you’re facing today.

Today I want to encourage you to remember that you don’t have to fight every battle in your own strength. Just as the warriors in 1 Chronicles 5 cried out to God and trusted Him, you can bring your battles to the Lord and depend on His help. Prepare yourself with His Word, seek His wisdom, take the steps He places before you, and trust Him with what you cannot control.

Don’t allow fear to convince you that you’re on your own or that the situation is too big for God. He hears you when you call on Him, and He knows exactly what you need. The same God who helped His people in the battle is the God you can call on today. Keep praying, keep trusting, and keep moving forward in faith. Your confidence isn’t in how strong you are, but in how faithful your God is.

Today’s Scripture Reading: 1 Chronicles 5

1 Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel—he was indeed the firstborn, but because he defiled his father’s bed, his birthright was given to the sons of Joseph, the son of Israel, so that the genealogy is not listed according to the birthright;

2 yet Judah prevailed over his brothers, and from him came a ruler, although the birthright was Joseph’s—

3 the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel were Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi.

4 The sons of Joel were Shemaiah his son, Gog his son, Shimei his son,

5 Micah his son, Reaiah his son, Baal his son,

6 and Beerah his son, whom Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria carried into captivity. He was leader of the Reubenites.

7 And his brethren by their families, when the genealogy of their generations was registered: the chief, Jeiel, and Zechariah,

8 and Bela the son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, who dwelt in Aroer, as far as Nebo and Baal Meon.

9 Eastward they settled as far as the entrance of the wilderness this side of the River Euphrates, because their cattle had multiplied in the land of Gilead.

10 Now in the days of Saul they made war with the Hagrites, who fell by their hand; and they dwelt in their tents throughout the entire area east of Gilead.

11 And the children of Gad dwelt next to them in the land of Bashan as far as Salcah:

12 Joel was the chief, Shapham the next, then Jaanai and Shaphat in Bashan,

13 and their brethren of their father’s house: Michael, Meshullam, Sheba, Jorai, Jachan, Zia, and Eber—seven in all.

14 These were the children of Abihail the son of Huri, the son of Jaroah, the son of Gilead, the son of Michael, the son of Jeshishai, the son of Jahdo, the son of Buz;

15 Ahi the son of Abdiel, the son of Guni, was chief of their father’s house.

16 And the Gadites dwelt in Gilead, in Bashan and in its villages, and in all the common-lands of Sharon within their borders.

17 All these were registered by genealogies in the days of Jotham king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam king of Israel.

18 The sons of Reuben, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh had forty-four thousand seven hundred and sixty valiant men, men able to bear shield and sword, to shoot with the bow, and skillful in war, who went to war.

19 They made war with the Hagrites, Jetur, Naphish, and Nodab.

20 And they were helped against them, and the Hagrites were delivered into their hand, and all who were with them, for they cried out to God in the battle. He heeded their prayer, because they put their trust in Him.

21 Then they took away their livestock—fifty thousand of their camels, two hundred and fifty thousand of their sheep, and two thousand of their donkeys—also one hundred thousand of their men;

22 for many fell dead, because the war was God’s. And they dwelt in their place until the captivity.

23 So the children of the half-tribe of Manasseh dwelt in the land. Their numbers increased from Bashan to Baal Hermon, that is, to Senir, or Mount Hermon.

24 These were the heads of their fathers’ houses: Epher, Ishi, Eliel, Azriel, Jeremiah, Hodaviah, and Jahdiel. They were mighty men of valor, famous men, and heads of their fathers’ houses.

25 And they were unfaithful to the God of their fathers, and played the harlot after the gods of the peoples of the land, whom God had destroyed before them.

26 So the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria, that is, Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria. He carried the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh into captivity. He took them to Halah, Habor, Hara, and the river of Gozan to this day.

Journal:

• What battle or difficult situation am I currently trying to handle in my own strength?
• Do I turn to God first when challenges come, or do I wait until I’ve exhausted all my other options?
• What practical steps can I take to prepare myself spiritually for the battles I may face?
• Is there an outcome I’m struggling to surrender to God because I want things to happen my way?
• How has God helped me in the past, and how can I use that testimony to encourage someone else today?

Lord, enlarge my territory

And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested. ~ 1 Chronicles 4:10

Have you ever considered that one simple prayer could change the direction of your life? Not because the words are magical, but because of the God you’re praying to. Sometimes we get so comfortable with our daily routines that we forget God has so much more He wants to accomplish through us. We pray for our families, our finances, our health, and our circumstances, but how often do we ask God to expand what He has entrusted to us so we can make a greater difference for His kingdom?

In today’s scripture reading, right in the middle of names and family records, we read about a man named Jabez. His name was associated with pain because his mother bore him in sorrow. Talk about starting life with a reminder of something difficult! But Jabez didn’t allow the circumstances surrounding his birth to determine the direction of his future. Instead, he called upon the God of Israel and asked Him to do something extraordinary.

What I love about this passage is that Jabez wasn’t afraid to ask God for more. He recognized that God was the source of his blessing, his provision, and his protection. He wanted God’s hand upon his life, and Scripture tells us that God gave him what he asked for.

Several years ago, I decided to take the prayer of Jabez seriously and pray it over my own life for 30 days. I wasn’t asking God for a bigger house, a better car, or more money in my bank account. Although, let’s be honest, a little extra money never hurts! The true desire of my heart was for God to enlarge my territory spiritually. I wanted Him to give me greater opportunities to serve Him, encourage others, and point more souls toward heaven.

As I continued praying, I began noticing God answering that prayer. I became more aware of opportunities to encourage people, share difficult season that He brought me through, and make a difference in the lives of others. What stood out to me wasn’t simply the possibility of doing more, but the realization that God could take ordinary moments and turn them into something eternal. It reminded me that enlarging our territory isn’t always about going somewhere new. Sometimes it’s about recognizing what God has already placed in our hands.

Here are three important parts of Jabez’s prayer that I hope will challenge us to live with greater purpose and dependence on God today.

1. Ask God to bless you indeed

Jabez began by asking God to bless him. Sometimes we hesitate to ask God for His blessing because we worry it sounds selfish. But there’s nothing wrong with asking for God’s blessing when our hearts are surrendered to His purposes. The important question is what we intend to do with what He gives us. When I prayed this prayer over my life and family, I included that His blessing would empower us to have a greater influence for the kingdom of heaven.

God’s blessings aren’t limited to financial provision or material possessions. They include wisdom, strength, peace, favor, opportunities, and the resources we need to equip us for what He’s called us to do. When we recognize that everything we have comes from Him, we begin to see our blessings as something to share rather than simply consume and enjoy by ourself.

Think about the abilities God has given you. Perhaps you’re good at organizing, teaching, encouraging, listening, or serving behind the scenes. Maybe you have resources you can use to help someone in need. Instead of overlooking those things or comparing yourself with someone else’s gifts, thank God for what He’s placed in your hands. Ask Him to show you how to use it well.

A blessed life isn’t necessarily a life with more possessions. It’s a life that recognizes God’s goodness and makes room for His purposes. When we ask Him to bless us, we should also be willing to extend to others what He gives.

2. Ask God to enlarge your territory

When Jabez asked God to enlarge his territory, he was asking for an increase. In his time, territory could mean land and possessions. For us, this can also be a prayer for God to expand our opportunities, responsibilities, and capacity to serve His kingdom.

This was the part of the prayer that really grabbed a hold of my heart during those 30 days. I began asking God to enlarge my territory, not so I could become more important, but so I could become more effective in the things He had called me to do. I wanted my life to make a greater difference for His Kingdom and to have more opportunities to point people toward Him.

Many times, we limit ourselves because we think we’re not qualified, talented, or experienced enough. We look at what someone else is doing and assume God could never work through us in the same way. But God isn’t looking for every body to do the same things. He’s looking for willing hearts. Sometimes we underestimate what He can accomplish through us because we’re too busy focusing on what we think we lack instead of making ourselves available for what He wants to do.

What is really hard for me to understand is when someone says they don’t want God to enlarge their territory because they’re satisfied right where they are, don’t feel they can handle more, or simply don’t want additional responsibilities. But here’s something I’ve come to understand that enlarging our territory doesn’t always mean adding more to our schedules or taking on another assignment. Sometimes it just means making the most of the opportunities we already have and recognizing the eternal value in the everyday moments God places in front of us. It might mean being more intentional with the people we meet each day, taking time to encourage someone, praying with a person who is hurting, or sharing the love of Jesus in an ordinary conversation. We don’t necessarily need more hours in the day. We need to recognize the opportunities within the hours we’ve already been given. After all, making every minute count for eternity is just as significant as taking on something new.

Maybe you’ve felt God nudging you to step into a ministry, start a small group, mentor someone, share your testimony, or take on a new responsibility. It could be you’ve been comfortable doing things a certain way, and the thought of stepping into something new feels a little intimidating. Even that your territory is already full, but God is asking you to be more intentional with the people and opportunities right in front of you. Whatever your circumstances, ask God to show you where He wants to stretch you and build your faith. Don’t automatically say no because something feels bigger than what you’re capable of handling. Instead, make yourself available and trust Him to give you the wisdom, strength, and grace you need. The goal isn’t simply to do more. It’s to make a greater difference for His Kingdom with whatever He puts in your hands.

Enlarging your territory doesn’t mean saying yes to everything or filling every available hour on your calendar. It means being willing to follow God’s direction when He opens a door. Your territory may expand through a new opportunity, a new responsibility, or a season that requires you to trust Him in a bigger way. Don’t let fear keep you from taking the next step.

3. Ask for God’s hand to be with you

Jabez didn’t stop at asking for blessing and increase. He also prayed that God’s hand would be with him and that God would keep him from evil. I think this is one of the most important parts of his prayer.

It’s one thing to ask God for greater opportunities, but it’s another thing to recognize that we can’t accomplish His purposes in our own strength. We need His wisdom when making decisions, His strength when we’re tired, His patience when people are difficult, and His guidance when we don’t know what to do next. And let’s face it, there are plenty of days when we need an extra helping of patience before we’ve even finished our morning coffee!

Jabez also understood the importance of God’s protection. As we grow in responsibility, we need to guard our hearts against pride, temptation, distraction, and anything that could pull us away from the Lord. We don’t want to become so busy doing things for God that we neglect spending time with Him.

Maybe you’re stepping into a leadership role, beginning a ministry, raising children, caring for aging parents, or navigating a challenging season at work. You may feel overwhelmed by everything that’s expected of you. Instead of trying to carry it all yourself, invite God into every part of your day. Pray before making important decisions, ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom, and stay rooted in God’s Word. God has grace for you for everything He has called you to.  If it feels to hard, it is probably because you are trying to do it in your own strength.

Jabez knew that the blessing wasn’t just in having more territory. It was in having God’s hand upon him as he stepped into it. Greater opportunities are wonderful, but they are never a substitute for God’s presence and empowering grace.

After praying the prayer of Jabez for 30 days, I came away with a greater desire to be intentional about the opportunities God places in my days. It wasn’t about trying to convince God to give me everything I wanted. It was about asking Him to work through my life for something bigger than myself.

I want to challenge you to do the same. For the next 30 days, begin each morning by praying the prayer of Jabez over your life. Ask God to:

• Bless you
• Enlarge your territory
• Keep His hand upon you
• Protect you from evil.

This is a simple prayer with only four parts, so it doesn’t require adding another hour to your day. The key is being intentional and consistent as you pray. As you continue praying, pay attention to the opportunities God places in your path, the people He brings into your life, and the responsibilities He may be asking you to take on. You might be surprised by how He begins to enlarge your territory through the ordinary moments of your day.

Keep a journal of what God is doing. Write down the opportunities He gives you, the people He places on your heart, and the ways He’s helping you grow. You may be surprised by how much you notice when you begin intentionally looking for His hand at work in your life.

Remember, this isn’t a formula that guarantees a specific result after 30 days. Prayer is about building a relationship with God and trusting Him with the outcome. Sometimes His answers look different than we expected, but we can trust that His wisdom is greater than ours.

Today I want to encourage you to stop limiting what God can do through your life. Don’t allow your past, your circumstances, or your insecurities to convince you that you’ve reached the end of your purpose. Jabez could have allowed the pain associated with his name to define his future, but instead, he chose to call upon God and God answered his prayer!

What if we began each day asking God to enlarge our territory, not for personal recognition, but so we could point more souls toward heaven? Imagine the difference we could make if we became intentional about using what God has given us for His kingdom. You don’t have to be a pastor, missionary, or Bible scholar to make an eternal difference. You simply need a willing heart and a desire to follow the Holy Spirit. So why not take the 30-day challenge? Pray boldly, listen carefully, and be willing to step through the doors God opens. You never know whose eternity might be changed because you were willing to ask God to enlarge your territory!

Today’s scripture reading: 1 Chronicles 4

1 The sons of Judah were Perez, Hezron, Carmi, Hur, and Shobal.

2 And Reaiah the son of Shobal begot Jahath, and Jahath begot Ahumai and Lahad. These were the families of the Zorathites.

3 These were the sons of the father of Etam: Jezreel, Ishma, and Idbash; and the name of their sister was Hazelelponi;

4 and Penuel was the father of Gedor, and Ezer was the father of Hushah.

These were the sons of Hur, the firstborn of Ephrathah the father of Bethlehem.

5 And Ashhur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.

6 Naarah bore him Ahuzzam, Hepher, Temeni, and Haahashtari. These were the sons of Naarah.

7 The sons of Helah were Zereth, Zohar, and Ethnan;

8 and Koz begot Anub, Zobebah, and the families of Aharhel the son of Harum.

9 Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.”

10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested.

11 Chelub the brother of Shuhah begot Mehir, who was the father of Eshton.

12 And Eshton begot Beth-Rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-Nahash. These were the men of Rechah.

13 The sons of Kenaz were Othniel and Seraiah. The sons of Othniel were Hathath,

14 and Meonothai who begot Ophrah. Seraiah begot Joab the father of Ge Harashim, for they were craftsmen.

15 The sons of Caleb the son of Jephunneh were Iru, Elah, and Naam. The son of Elah was Kenaz.

16 The sons of Jehallelel were Ziph, Ziphah, Tiria, and Asarel.

17 The sons of Ezrah were Jether, Mered, Epher, and Jalon. And Mered’s wife bore Miriam, Shammai, and Ishbah the father of Eshtemoa.

18 (His wife Jehudijah bore Jered the father of Gedor, Heber the father of Sochoh, and Jekuthiel the father of Zanoah.) And these were the sons of Bithiah the daughter of Pharaoh, whom Mered took.

19 The sons of Hodiah’s wife, the sister of Naham, were the fathers of Keilah the Garmite and of Eshtemoa the Maachathite.

20 And the sons of Shimon were Amnon, Rinnah, Ben-Hanan, and Tilon. And the sons of Ishi were Zoheth and Ben-Zoheth.

21 The sons of Shelah the son of Judah were Er the father of Lecah, Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families of the house of the linen workers of the house of Ashbea;

22 also Jokim, the men of Chozeba, and Joash; Saraph, who ruled in Moab, and Jashubi-Lehem. Now the records are ancient.

23 These were the potters and those who dwell at Netaim and Gederah; there they dwelt with the king for his work.

24 The sons of Simeon were Nemuel, Jamin, Jarib, Zerah, and Shaul,

25 Shallum his son, Mibsam his son, and Mishma his son.

26 And the sons of Mishma were Hamuel his son, Zacchur his son, and Shimei his son.

27 Shimei had sixteen sons and six daughters; but his brothers did not have many children, nor did any of their families multiply as much as the children of Judah.

28 They dwelt at Beersheba, Moladah, Hazar Shual,

29 Bilhah, Ezem, Tolad,

30 Bethuel, Hormah, Ziklag,

31 Beth Marcaboth, Hazar Susim, Beth Biri, and at Shaaraim. These were their cities until the reign of David.

32 And their villages were Etam, Ain, Rimmon, Tochen, and Ashan—five cities—

33 and all the villages that were around these cities as far as Baal. These were their dwelling places, and they maintained their genealogy:

34 Meshobab, Jamlech, and Joshah the son of Amaziah;

35 Joel, and Jehu the son of Joshibiah, the son of Seraiah, the son of Asiel;

36 Elioenai, Jaakobah, Jeshohaiah, Asaiah, Adiel, Jesimiel, and Benaiah;

37 Ziza the son of Shiphi, the son of Allon, the son of Jedaiah, the son of Shimri, the son of Shemaiah—

38 these mentioned by name were leaders in their families, and their father’s house increased greatly.

39 So they went to the entrance of Gedor, as far as the east side of the valley, to seek pasture for their flocks.

40 And they found rich, good pasture, and the land was broad, quiet, and peaceful; for some Hamites formerly lived there.

41 These recorded by name came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah; and they attacked their tents and the Meunites who were found there, and utterly destroyed them, as it is to this day. So they dwelt in their place, because there was pasture for their flocks there.

42 Now some of them, five hundred men of the sons of Simeon, went to Mount Seir, having as their captains Pelatiah, Neariah, Rephaiah, and Uzziel, the sons of Ishi.

43 And they defeated the rest of the Amalekites who had escaped. They have dwelt there to this day.

Journal:

• When I ask God to bless my life, am I also willing to use what He gives me to bless others?
• What area of my life might God be asking me to expand, whether it’s my service, responsibilities, spiritual growth, or willingness to step out in faith?
• Have I allowed fear, insecurity, or past experiences to keep me from stepping into something God has placed before me?
• What would it look like for me to intentionally pray the prayer of Jabez for the next 30 days?
• Who are three people I can begin praying for, asking God to give me opportunities to encourage them and share His love?
• Am I depending on God’s hand and guidance, or am I trying to accomplish everything in my own strength?

God Is still building, even in the middle of a messed up world

The sons of Pedaiah were Zerubbabel and Shimei. The sons of Zerubbabel were Meshullam, Hananiah, Shelomith their sister, ~ 1 Chronicles 3:19

Have you ever looked at something in your life and thought, “Well, this certainly isn’t how I pictured it turning out!” Maybe a relationship didn’t work out, a family situation became complicated, or a season you thought would be full of opportunity turned into one you never expected. We often have a picture in our minds of how things should go, but life doesn’t always follow the plan we imagined. Sometimes, right in the middle of the mess, God is doing something we can’t see yet.

When we read today’s scripture reading, we discover something more than a record of David’s family. This chapter follows the royal family line through some very difficult seasons. It includes the reign of David’s descendants, the fall of Jerusalem, and the people who lived through the Babylonian exile. But tucked into this chapter is a little detail worth slowing down to notice. Zerubbabel appears in the family line after the exile. He would later become a leader involved in the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The temple had been destroyed, the people had been displaced, and what once seemed secure had fallen apart. But God was had someone strategically placed to help rebuild what had been lost at just the right time.

I love that! God didn’t abandon His people when everything fell apart. He was already working toward restoration. The chapter doesn’t give us all the details of Zerubbabel’s later work, but his name connects us to a powerful truth found throughout Scripture. God is not finished just because something has been broken and falling apart. He knows how to bring new beginnings out of difficult endings.

This is so encouraging for us today because it shows us something about trusting God when life doesn’t look the way we expected. Here are three truths that can help us live with faith and confidence in the middle of our own circumstances either good or not so good.

1. God brings new beginnings after great loss

The family line in this chapter continues through a time when Jerusalem had been conquered and the temple destroyed. Imagine what that must have felt like for God’s people. The place where they worshiped, the place that represented so much of their history, security and relationship with God, was gone. Their familiar surroundings had changed, and they were living in a land that wasn’t their own. From their perspective, it may have looked like everything had come to an end. But God had not abandoned His plans.

Sometimes we experience losses that leave us wondering what comes next. It might be the end of a relationship, a job change, a ministry transition, a financial setback, or a dream that didn’t turn out the way we hoped. We can become so focused on what we’ve lost that we struggle to recognize what God may be preparing to do next. But an ending doesn’t mean God has run out of possibilities. He can bring purpose out of pain, wisdom out of experience, and new opportunities out of seasons we never would have chosen.

Think about a person who has gone through a difficult divorce or a major family change. They may feel as though the life they planned is no longer possible. Yet God can bring healing, restore joy, and give them opportunities to encourage others walking through similar circumstances. Or perhaps you’ve served in a particular ministry for years and that season has come to a close. Instead of believing your usefulness has ended, ask God what He may be opening up next. You don’t have to understand the entire plan to take the next step. Sometimes faith simply means trusting God enough to believe there is still more ahead.

2. Don’t let what was destroyed keep you from believing in what can be rebuilt

Zerubbabel’s place in this family line is significant because he would become one of the leaders involved in rebuilding the temple after the exile. Think about that for a moment. The very place that had been destroyed would become the focus of a rebuilding project. God wasn’t asking His people to pretend the destruction hadn’t happened. He was leading them forward into the work of restoration.

There is a difference between remembering what happened and allowing it to determine what happens next. We can’t always change what has been broken, but with God’s help, we can begin rebuilding. Sometimes that means rebuilding trust, restoring a relationship, developing a healthier pattern, or simply learning to believe again after disappointment. Rebuilding doesn’t happen overnight. If you’ve ever tackled a home project, you know that sometimes the mess gets worse before it gets better! But the work is still worth doing when there’s a purpose behind it.

Maybe there’s a relationship in your life that needs attention. Perhaps you’ve been distant from someone, or words were spoken that caused hurt. You may not be able to control the other person’s response, but you can take responsibility for your part, offer an apology, extend forgiveness, and ask God to show you what a healthy next step looks like. Maybe you’ve stopped pursuing something God placed on your heart because a previous attempt didn’t work out. Don’t assume one disappointment means the opportunity is gone forever. Pray, seek His wisdom, and take the next step He puts before you.

We also need to remember that rebuilding doesn’t always mean returning to exactly what things were before. God may lead us into something new, healthier, and more fruitful than what we originally imagined. The goal isn’t to recreate yesterday. It’s to follow Him faithfully today.

3. God’s work isn’t dependent on perfect circumstances

One of the things I love about the story connected to this chapter is that Zerubbabel’s assignment came after a season of tremendous disruption. He wasn’t stepping into a perfectly prepared situation with everything in place. The temple needed rebuilding, the people needed encouragement, and there was a great deal of work ahead. Yet God used him in that very season.

We sometimes think we’ll be ready to serve God when life settles down. When the schedule isn’t so busy, when the family situation improves, when we have more money, more confidence, or a little more energy. Of course, some seasons require us to slow down and take care of important responsibilities. But we don’t need perfect circumstances to be faithful. God does His best work when we let Him into our lives right where we are.

Consider the opportunities you have today. You can encourage someone while you’re waiting in line, pray with a friend during a difficult conversation, show kindness to a coworker who is having a rough day, or take time to invest in someone who needs to know they’re not alone. You don’t need a microphone, a ministry title, or a perfectly organized calendar to make a difference.

Maybe you’re walking through a season that feels uncertain. You may not have all the answers, but you can still be faithful with what God has placed in your hands. You can pray, serve, love, encourage, and trust Him with the outcome. Don’t underestimate what God can accomplish through one willing heart. The same God who was at work through Zerubbabel in a season of rebuilding is still able to work through His people today.

Today I want to encourage you not to mistake a difficult season for the end of what God wants to do in your life. This passage reminds us that even after destruction, displacement, and tremendous change, God’s purposes continued. He was preparing for restoration when His people could only see what had been lost.

Maybe you’re in a rebuilding season right now. Maybe something in your life looks different than you expected, or you’re still trying to figure out what comes next. Don’t give up, and don’t assume God is finished. He brings new beginnings after loss, help you rebuild what needs attention, and works through you even when circumstances aren’t perfect. Your responsibility isn’t to have the entire blueprint figured out. It’s to trust the Builder. Keep taking the next step, keep your heart open to His direction, and remember that God is still working, even when all you can see is the construction zone!

Today’s scripture reading: 1 Chronicles 3

1 Now these were the sons of David who were born to him in Hebron: The firstborn was Amnon, by Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; the second, Daniel, by Abigail the Carmelitess;

2 the third, Absalom the son of Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur; the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith;

3 the fifth, Shephatiah, by Abital; the sixth, Ithream, by his wife Eglah.

4 These six were born to him in Hebron. There he reigned seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years.

5 And these were born to him in Jerusalem: Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon—four by Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel.

6 Also there were Ibhar, Elishama, Eliphelet,

7 Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia,

8 Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet—nine in all.

9 These were all the sons of David, besides the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.

The Family of Solomon

10 Solomon’s son was Rehoboam; Abijah was his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son,

11 Joram his son, Ahaziah his son, Joash his son,

12 Amaziah his son, Azariah his son, Jotham his son,

13 Ahaz his son, Hezekiah his son, Manasseh his son,

14 Amon his son, and Josiah his son.

15 The sons of Josiah were Johanan the firstborn, the second Jehoiakim, the third Zedekiah, and the fourth Shallum.

16 The sons of Jehoiakim were Jeconiah his son and Zedekiah his son.

The Family of Jeconiah

17 And the sons of Jeconiah were Assir, Shealtiel his son,

18 and Malchiram, Pedaiah, Shenazzar, Jecamiah, Hoshama, and Nedabiah.

19 The sons of Pedaiah were Zerubbabel and Shimei. The sons of Zerubbabel were Meshullam, Hananiah, Shelomith their sister,

20 and Hashubah, Ohel, Berechiah, Hasadiah, and Jushab-Hesed—five in all.

21 The sons of Hananiah were Pelatiah and Jeshaiah, the sons of Rephaiah, the sons of Arnan, the sons of Obadiah, and the sons of Shechaniah.

22 The son of Shechaniah was Shemaiah. The sons of Shemaiah were Hattush, Igal, Bariah, Neariah, and Shaphat—six in all.

23 The sons of Neariah were Elioenai, Hezekiah, and Azrikam—three in all.

24 The sons of Elioenai were Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani—seven in all.

Journal:

• Is there an area of my life where I’ve been focusing more on what I’ve lost than on what God may be doing next?
• What might God be asking me to rebuild, whether it’s a relationship, a habit, my confidence, or my willingness to trust Him?
• Have I been waiting for perfect circumstances before stepping into something God has placed on my heart?
• What is one small step of faith I can take this week, even if I don’t know how everything will turn out?
• How can I encourage someone else who is walking through a season of loss, change, or rebuilding?

The Corrupt Church

“I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first.” ~ Revelation 2:19

Have you ever been so busy doing good things that you didn’t notice something unhealthy was quietly taking root in your life? It’s possible to be serving, loving others, growing in faith, and doing more for God than ever before, yet still have areas of our lives that need His attention. That’s what makes Jesus’ message to the church at Thyatira so important. We can be doing some things right and still need to make some serious changes in life.

The church at Thyatira had some wonderful qualities. Jesus acknowledged their love, service, faith, and patience. He even recognized that their works were increasing. They weren’t sitting around doing nothing. They were active in serving others and growing in their good works. However, there was another side to this church that Jesus wasn’t willing to overlook.

Some within the church were tolerating a woman Jesus referred to as Jezebel, who was leading people into sexual immorality and idolatry. Her influence was causing believers to compromise their faith and participate in things that were contrary to God’s Word. Jesus confronted this behavior and gave those involved an opportunity to repent. He also warned that there would be consequences for refusing to turn away from it.

This is a powerful reminder that being active in church doesn’t automatically mean every area of our lives is lined up with God’s plan. We can serve in ministry, attend every service, sing on the worship team, and even know all the right Christian answers, but we still need to guard our hearts and homes against the things that pull us away from Him. Being busy with the things of God should never take the place of being obedient to God.

The influence of immorality and compromise is still something we need to take seriously today. Our homes are constantly exposed to messages through television, movies, social media, music, and other forms of entertainment. Much of what the world presents as normal is contrary to the values God has established for our lives and families. When we repeatedly allow those messages into our homes, they can begin to shape our thinking, our attitudes, and even our expectations of relationships.

We need to be especially mindful of what we’re allowing to influence our marriages and families. Not everything that is popular is healthy, and not everything that is entertaining is beneficial. Sometimes we need to turn something off, put the phone down, or simply decide that certain things don’t belong in our home. And yes, sometimes the remote control needs to become a spiritual warfare tool!

Jesus called the church at Thyatira to repent and hold fast to what they had until He came. He encouraged those who had remained faithful not to take on additional burdens, but to continue holding firmly to Him. He also promised authority over the nations and the morning star to those who overcame and remained faithful to the end.

What stands out to me is that Jesus didn’t overlook the good they were doing, but He also didn’t ignore the areas where they were compromising. He wanted the entire church to remain faithful, not just in the things they did publicly, but in the private places of their lives as well.

Here are three truths we can take from the message to the church at Thyatira:

1. Don’t allow good works to distract you from the condition of your heart

Jesus acknowledged their love, service, faith, and patience. Those were good things, but they didn’t excuse the compromise happening within the church. We need to remember that serving God is important, but our relationship with Him must be our greatest priority. We can’t substitute activity for intimacy with our heavenly Father.

Practical ways to apply this:

• Take an honest look at your relationship with God, not just how much you do for Him.
• Make time for prayer, worship, and God’s Word outside of your church responsibilities.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any attitudes, habits, or behaviors that need to change.
• Don’t use your service or good works as a reason to overlook areas of disobedience.
• Make sure your private life is receiving the same attention as your public life.

How to get started: Set aside time this week to spend with the Lord without an agenda. Don’t make your prayer time another item on your to do list. Spend time with your heavenly Father, listen to His Word, and ask Him to show you anything that needs His attention.

2. Guard your heart and home against unhealthy influences

The church at Thyatira was allowing teaching and behavior that were leading people away from God’s truth. We need to be careful about the voices and influences we welcome into our lives. What we repeatedly watch, listen to, and entertain can affect what we believe is acceptable.

Practical ways to apply this:

• Pay attention to the messages coming through your entertainment, social media, and conversations.
• Be intentional about what you allow into your home, especially when it comes to content that promotes immorality, selfishness, or unhealthy relationships.
• Talk openly with your family about God’s design for relationships, marriage, purity, and honoring one another.
• Establish boundaries around media and activities that repeatedly pull you toward temptation.
• Don’t assume something is good for you simply because everyone else is watching it or talking about it.

How to get started: Choose one area of entertainment or media that may be influencing your thinking in an unhealthy way. Take a break from it and replace that time with something that strengthens your relationship with God. If you have children or grandchildren, consider having a conversation about the things they’re watching and the messages those things communicate.

3. Hold fast to God’s word and keep moving forward

Jesus told the faithful believers to hold on until He came. He didn’t tell them to give up because of what was happening around them. He encouraged them to remain faithful and continue walking in obedience. We need that same determination today. There will always be opportunities to compromise, but we don’t have to give in. God’s Word gives us the truth, and the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to live it out.

Practical ways to apply this:

• Identify the areas where you’re most vulnerable to temptation and establish boundaries before you’re faced with it.
• Memorize Scripture that strengthens you in the areas where you struggle.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to help you recognize deception and respond with wisdom.
• If you’ve compromised, don’t hide from God. Repent, receive His forgiveness, and take the next step toward obedience.
• Surround yourself with people who encourage your faith and will lovingly speak truth when you need it.
• Keep doing the good works Jesus has called you to do, but make sure they’re flowing from a heart that belongs fully to Him.

How to get started: Choose one promise or instruction from God’s Word that speaks to an area you’re facing right now. Write it down, pray over it, and put it somewhere you’ll see it every day. Then take one practical step this week to live out what God has shown you.

Today I want to encourage you to hold on to Jesus and remain faithful in every area of your life. Don’t become so busy doing good things that you overlook the things God wants to change within you. Guard your heart, protect your home, and pay attention to the influences you’re allowing to shape your thinking. If you’ve allowed compromise to creep in, don’t become discouraged or try to hide it. Jesus calls us to repent, return to Him, and hold fast to His truth. He knows the good works you’re doing, He sees your faithfulness, and He also loves you enough to correct the areas that could lead you away from Him. .

You don’t have to follow the world’s standards or allow its influences to determine how you live. The Holy Spirit is ready to help you walk in purity, faith, love, and obedience. Keep doing what is right, keep growing in your relationship with your heavenly Father, and don’t let go of what He has placed in your heart. Be an overcomer and hold fast to Jesus until the end!

Today’s Scripture Reading: Revelation 2:18–29

18 “And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write,

‘These things says the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass:

19 “I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first.

20 Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.

21 And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent.

22 Indeed I will cast her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds.

23 I will kill her children with death, and all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works.

24 “Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden.

25 But hold fast what you have till I come.

26 And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations—

27 ‘He shall rule them with a rod of iron;

They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter’s vessels’—

as I also have received from My Father;

28 and I will give him the morning star.

29 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’

Journal:

• Am I so busy serving God that I’ve neglected spending personal time with Him?
• Are there influences coming into my home that are shaping my thinking or values in ways that don’t honor God?
• What areas of my life might I be tolerating that Jesus is asking me to surrender?
• What practical boundaries can I establish to protect my heart and my family?
• What does it mean for me to hold fast to Jesus in the season I’m walking through right now?