First Chronicles Chapter 4
Sticks And Stones Break My Bones And Names DO Hurt Me!
Once again we read genealogies and when it comes to the sons of Judah they stop and mention, in more detail, the man named Jabez. It says that Jabez was more honorable than his brothers and his mother named him Jabez because she gave birth to him in pain. Jabez means “he makes sorrowful.”
In those days, the name you received often described not just who you are but who you will become. So Jabez cries out to God and asks for his Blessing so that he does not produce a life of sorrow. It says God granted his request and blessed him.
I think of how people, especially kids, are quick to call others names. Even adults judge people based upon their appearances. But if anyone looks down upon you and calls you a bad name, then reject those names in the name of Jesus because Jesus came to give us life and a life of abundance to be used for his glory, and to be productive for the kingdom. So reject any name that brings oneself down or prevents you from becoming all God wants you to be.
