1 Chronicles 4:1-23, Genesis 46:13, 1 Chronicles 7:1-5, Genesis 46:14-18, 1 Chronicles 7:30-40, Genesis 46:19-25, 1 Chronicles 7:6-12, Genesis 46:26-47:12

The Clans of Judah

One of his descendents was Jabez ... meaning 'I gave birth to him in pain.'  I am so glad we use different techniques for naming children in our current society.  Jabez redeemed himself by praying,

4:10 "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request.

Hmmm ... the Prayer of Jabez ... the book from 2000. The trend of that year.

1 Chronicles 7:1-5 lists the number of fighting men for the clans.  145,600 according to this passage - from 3 families.  WOW.

finally - Jacob/Israel is reunited with his son whom he thought was dead.  What an amazing moment - to lay eyes and hands on a child you thought you would never see again.  A child you have mourned over for years.  A child who was your heart. Your hope.  Now to discover he is alive and thriving.  Oh the smiles. Oh the tears. Oh the hugs and pats and trying to soak in the precious face of your son...

Joseph gets them in with Pharaoh who gives them the 'choicest' land, asks them to keep his own livestock and basically offers them his protection.  Such rewards for dumping your brother in a hole.  Proves that God will take something intended for evil and make it good.