“Jabez was more honourable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” – 1st Chronicles 4:9 (NIV)
The book of 1st Chronicles was written after the Babylonian exile for the Jewish people who lived in Jerusalem and Judah. Its primary purpose was to encourage and remind them of God’s faithfulness as they tried to rebuild their identity and renew their faith in the Lord. In chapter four, we are introduced to a man named Jabez, whose name means sorrow or pain. His mother gave him this name because of the anguish she experienced while giving birth to him (verse 9).
Although his name meant pain or sorrow, in the same verse, the Word of God introduces him as more honourable than his brothers; this description distinguished him from his brothers despite the circumstances surrounding his birth.
We can learn a lesson from what is written here – it does not matter how humble or painful our beginnings were, God sees us differently. He sees our gifts and potential for greatness. For this reason, like Jabez, we can be described as honourable in the midst of difficult circumstances and situations. We are set apart for greatness.
There is meaning in a name, and for some, your name may have an unpleasant meaning, and it seems like you attract trouble wherever you go. Of course, there are people who are quick to discourage you by identifying your present circumstances with the meaning of your name. However, I disagree with those people. I want you to know that there is hope for you, there is a better way to live.
The first step in your journey to a purposeful future is to confess your wrong doing and accept Jesus Christ as Lord of your life (1st John 1:9). When you take this bold step of faith you will have a new identity in Christ (2nd Corinthians 5:17). I can assure you that all your troubles will not disappear instantly, but with continual prayer, fasting and reading the Word of God, you will grow and mature in Christ and be able to overcome unpleasant things when they come your way (Romans 8:37).
Like Jabez, you can receive a new identity in Christ and experience victory in every area of your life, even in difficult circumstances or situations.
Read: 1 John 3:1; Galatians 2:20
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 22:7-16; 2 Corinthians 11:1-15; Isaiah 20; Isaiah 21; Isaiah 22; Isaiah 23