September 2nd~More Than a Name

1 Chronicles 5:18-26


1 Chronicles 6:3b,49,4-15

1 Chronicles 7:1-8:28

We were given an account of the descendants of the tribes of Israel, otherwise known as a genealogy or “family tree.” This section is part of a list of genealogies found in 1 Chronicles 1-9. Of course, this type of reading is not our favorite, but genealogies play an important role. Here are a few reasons why genealogies are significant.

First, God’s people were divided up by tribes. Therefore, for one to prove his tribal heritage, he would point to his genealogy, the record of his family line. Second, a genealogy was important in keeping track of the royal line, so that David’s descendants would always be on the throne. Third, genealogies give us a sense of time. We can count generations and use ages to reckon dates and the order of events.

A fourth reason why genealogies are important is that they set the Bible apart from books of myth, fairy tale, and legend. It is a book of history, with reliable information that can be verified in history. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, genealogies are included in the Bible to help us follow the line of Christ, the Messiah. How would we be able to verify that He was of the line of David without a family tree? How would we recognize all that God had done to arrange His arrival without seeing the names in His line of ancestors?

Daily Reflection

Can you think of any other reasons why keeping track of genealogies is important?

When we look at a genealogy we only see a long list of names, which rarely means anything to us. What we miss is the fact that behind each of those names is a story. Each person in a genealogy had a story of successes and struggles, of triumphs and tragedies. Unfortunately, all of those are forgotten in a genealogy.

One day your name will be added to a genealogy. Many years from now your descendants will look back at the family tree and read only your name and miss your story. All that you have experienced will be forgotten. All that you have learned will be erased; and all that you have accomplished will be no more. You will only be a name on a family tree.

If you could insert a few lines to describe yourself for future descendants, what would you include? How would you summarize your life?

While it may seem depressing, that you will one day be a name in a family tree, be encouraged. God knows all things. He forgets nothing but your sins. In His records, He has taken note of your life. Though you may not influence those who live in the future, you can make a difference now. Are you more than a name to those around you?

BiAY.org |Day 245 — 120 Days to Go