Charles (Chuck) Kensinger

Chapter three of 1 Chronicles gives us the descendants of David. We have already seen that Solomon takes the throne before his father’s death. Forty years as King for David leads to the long list of his successors.

We will read in first and second Kings all the kings of Judah and Israel. Other stories in the first and second Chronicles give additional stories of these leaders of the two countries. Let’s look at the balance of the genealogies in the first Chronicles before pursuing Solomon and his family.

As we proceed with the lineage of Judah in 1st Chronicles chapter four, we see one that stands out. Jabez gives a prayer that has had wide recognition a few years ago.  While this was touted as a great prayer, let’s look at what it really is. He asked Jehovah for three things. Bless me, enlarge my territory, let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm. It sounds a little selfish.  Can we ask for these things free of selfish motives? We should at least try.

The descendants of Simeone are not as numerous as some of the others. They are one of the smaller tribes and had less property given to them at the distribution of the land.  Those who come from this line are as important as Judah which produced many kings. The past does not determine who we are. The future is the key.

The offspring of Reuben, Gad, and Joseph’s son Manasseh is discussed in 1 Chronicles chapter five. An interesting note is the exclusion of Reuben, the oldest son, from his birthright due to sexual sin. The privileges of the oldest are given to Joseph, a younger brother. We often see the will of Jehovah violating man-made laws.

These two- and one-half tribes also conquered some of the neighbors that Yahweh wanted to be driven from the land. They waged war against the Hagrites, Jetur, Naphish, and Nodab. The loot gathered from these battles was substantial.

These three families were part of Israel that was taken captive by Assyria. This punishment for following other gods was what the Lord said he would do to them.

©Copyright 2020 by Charles Kensinger