The Bible is filled with a great number of stories of men and women. Some are described as epic feats of strength and courage while others are emotional tales of faith and sacrifice. Within the recordings of their lives are examples given to us to draw lessons of how we should live.
When we evaluate our lives to those found in the Scriptures, we may be intimidated. Who am I compared to a David or a Paul? After I’m gone, what will be written about me? What stories will be told in my name? What accomplishments will be attributed to me?
These same questions may have been asked by one man found in just two verses of 1 Chronicles. In verses 9 and 10, we read of Jabez, a man named after the pain he caused his mother in his birth. This is the only time he is mentioned in the Bible. He was of the tribe of Judah, but it is not clear who his parents or descendants were. There are no great feats to be found, nor a great lineage to speak of. Why even mention him at all?
In verse 9, we read about the origin of his name and that he was “…more honorable than his brothers.” Then, in verse 10, he prays for God’s blessings. He says, “…bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” And God granted his requests.
This is all that is recorded of the life of Jabez. To many, he may seem like an insignificant footnote among far more important names and lineages. However, what is said about Jabez encompasses exactly what any of us should strive for in our lives. He lived with honor and gained favor in the sight of God.
How much stress and energy do we waste trying to make names for ourselves? In the pursuit of a lasting legacy, we will often ignore the things that truly matter. Any physical reward we strive for in this life will not last. Jabez did what it took Solomon a lifetime to learn. Though he had wealth and fame beyond measure, in the end, all of it was vanity. He realized the truth saying, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all” (Ecc. 12:13).
Life is deceptive. Because we reside in mortal bodies, many of us make the mistake of placing all of our value in the legacy we leave behind. We strive for that perfect job, or perfect family, or perfect life experience to be proud of, but nothing of this world will last. Eventually, those we hope will carry on our memory will also pass away. The only legacy that matters is the one we write with our eternal Father.
-Robert Lupo
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