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- Oct 26, 2007
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There was a man named Jabez who was more honorable than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. 1 Chronicles 4:9 NLT
The genealogies say little about the individuals listed, but 1 Chronicles singles out a man named Jabez because he was honorable.
What makes a man worthy of the kind of notation that Jabez received?
Sometimes it is easier to answer this question by reading through the Bible’s history books and looking at those who lacked honor. For instance, today’s reading in 1 Chronicles singles Reuben out because he gave in to sexual indulgence (5:1).
Acts records that many Jewish leaders were jealous of the disciples and slandered Paul as he attempted to explain Jesus (13:45). Later, the writer adds that as Paul and Barnabas ministered healing in Iconium, some of the Jews intentionally poisoned the minds of the crowds (14:2).
Self-indulgence, jealousy, and septic speech dishonor a man, while self-control, promoting another’s success, and nurturing words honor him.
What do people write in their mental histories about you at work, at home, and at your church?
Psalm 105 reveals how the Lord tested Joseph’s character while he was unaware (105:19). This is how God tests—in the secret and hidden hours.
Will you be honored for your self-control, your constant promotion of another man’s success, and the healing in your words?
Prayer: Lord, help me work harder at controlling myself, at celebrating another man’s success, and at supporting others with my words.
The genealogies say little about the individuals listed, but 1 Chronicles singles out a man named Jabez because he was honorable.
What makes a man worthy of the kind of notation that Jabez received?
Sometimes it is easier to answer this question by reading through the Bible’s history books and looking at those who lacked honor. For instance, today’s reading in 1 Chronicles singles Reuben out because he gave in to sexual indulgence (5:1).
Acts records that many Jewish leaders were jealous of the disciples and slandered Paul as he attempted to explain Jesus (13:45). Later, the writer adds that as Paul and Barnabas ministered healing in Iconium, some of the Jews intentionally poisoned the minds of the crowds (14:2).
Self-indulgence, jealousy, and septic speech dishonor a man, while self-control, promoting another’s success, and nurturing words honor him.
What do people write in their mental histories about you at work, at home, and at your church?
Psalm 105 reveals how the Lord tested Joseph’s character while he was unaware (105:19). This is how God tests—in the secret and hidden hours.
Will you be honored for your self-control, your constant promotion of another man’s success, and the healing in your words?
Prayer: Lord, help me work harder at controlling myself, at celebrating another man’s success, and at supporting others with my words.
