1 Chronicles 6-8 Who's On The List?

As I read through all of these names, I was tempted to say, “Who cares?”  But then I remembered that God did!  I imagined Him directing the writer to put those names down on parchment or papyrus, even repeating some of them – maybe because God fondly recalled those people!  And it made me wonder if God would have fondly recalled my name, had I been there.

There were people listed who could claim kinship with well-known men, such as Elkanah and his son Samuel.  Aaron’s lineage is really covered, but Moses’ was totally absent.  Some people did the most sacred work in the Temple.  Some served as musicians for the Meeting Tent, but appear to have lost their jobs once the Temple was ready.  Others “served by doing their own special work in the Holy Tent.”

God acknowledged men for being leaders in their families and also for having many children.  He even mentioned two brothers who went into Philistine territory to steal cows and sheep and who died in the process!

God called several men outstanding leaders.  The vast majority, though, were simply mentioned – but mentioned by God in His Word!

All of this helps me to see that I should never discount anyone’s value, for they are all important to God.  I should also strive to live a life honoring of God – a life that hopefully will never result in a less-than-favorable “review”.  It also helps me to see the importance of shepherding my sons to do the same.  Yes, every man is a sinner.  Every man makes mistakes.  But our most important decisions are the next ones we make.  We can’t change our past, but we can direct our future to be God-honoring.

Father, remind me often that everything I do either honors You or disparages You.  You are God of my life and You have cared for me more than I could ever imagine and certainly more than I deserve.  I want to honor Your love and care for me and for my family.  Stop me if I am headed toward anything that could disgrace Your name.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford