Here are some takeaways from my recent read through 1 Chronicles (each number relates to that particular chapter). Chronicles actually tells the same story as Samuel-Kings. It is told 100+ years later and from a different perspective. One of the major things I noticed is that the book reminds us of the primary place worship should hold in our lives.
- The list of names reminds us of the importance of individual people in the community of faith.
- Names and more names
- Little wonder David's family was always in a mess. While living in Hebron for 7 1/2 years, he had six sons. Each of the six had a different mother.
- Lately, I've heard preachers make fun of the "Prayer of Jabez" craze. I see nothing wrong with making the prayer my personal prayer if I so choose. The verses DO standout in the midst of long lists of names.
- Another gem tucked away amongst the scores of names: "God answered their prayers because they trusted Him." (5:20)
- Worship leaders and ministers of music are not a modern phenomenon. Roots go back at least to King David.
- How would you like to be named Beriah which means "unlucky"?
- The Bible has teachings throughout on divorce, but I don't recall reading of specific names of people who divorced. But here it is. In 8:8, Shaharaim divorced his wives Hushin and Baara.
- Verse 1 states the reason the people of God were sent into exile--unbelief and disobedience.
- How do I want to finish my life? King Saul provides a negative example. He died in disobedience to God.
- Mark Batterson, pastor in D.C., has written a popular book based on 11:22--In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day. I'm reading it right now--great read!
- I love the words of Amasai who was moved by the Holy Spirit--words that any leader loves to hear: "We're on your side....we're committed."
- The falling ark is a classic story that sometimes the best of motives will backfire on us.
- When believers obey God, non-believers begin to fear God.
(part 2 of 1 Chronicles next time)
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