Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
June 22, 2022
Read 1 Chronicles 4:9-10
9 Jabez was more honored than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I bore him in pain.” 10 Jabez called on Israel’s God: “If only you would greatly bless me and increase my territory. May your power go with me to keep me from trouble, so as not to cause me pain.” And God granted his request.
Good morning! Rejoice, again I say rejoice!
As I sit among the boxes this morning, I remember previous moves. It seems that I have been destined to move with regularity first with military moves and then with the itinerancy of pastors in the UMC. With each move comes a purging of something. Most of the time those things that are tossed aside are not missed. Occasionally, an item is lost or broken during the chaos that ensues during the packing and moving process.
It always seems that there are boxes that move from one location to the next without being opened or used. Why do they still move with me? These are the boxes that carry mementos from early times or from family members who have gone to glory. Most hold things of no particular monetary value, but they have become part of who I am. I suppose they could be purged and they might not be missed, but for now they travel with me.
In today’s passage, Jabez’ request of God seems a bit bold in nature, but Jabez has lived a difficult life. His name meaning “causes pain” has followed him all his life, but despite his challenges, he is faithful to God. Jabez recognizes his sinfulness and prays and submits to God. Through his show of great faith, God answers his prayer.
These words of Jabez are words of blessing, and a request for protection and guidance: to live in covenant with God. God blesses Jabez and Israel by granting this time of peace. However, the Israelites would stray from their faith and once again become captives in a foreign land.
What does this passage say to us today? God is waiting for us to submit ourselves to God’s will and we will be blessed. God promises through the death and resurrection of Jesus to protect us and guide us as we navigate the world of evil that meets us at every crossroad. God is always ready for those who call upon his Holy Name.
Loving and Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. It’s easy to say that we can handle things ourselves, but thank you for being ready to give us a hand when we are falling. Thank You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: God is waiting to bless those who are seekers!
Reach out in faith to God! Pastor Liz
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