How can we seek God's favor in our family, like David in Chronicles? Setting the Scene David has just been established in Jerusalem. He recognizes the Lord’s hand on his throne (1 Chronicles 14:2) and, while forging military victories, also builds his household. Verse 7 simply lists three newborn sons—“Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet.” (1 Chronicles 14:7)—but the surrounding verses reveal how David positioned his family under God’s favor. Observations from 1 Chronicles 14:7 • The names matter – Elishama = “God hears” – Beeliada = “Lord knows” – Eliphelet = “God delivers” Each child’s identity reminds the household of who God is. • Births occur after David has sought, heard, and obeyed God in battle (vv. 10, 14). Spiritual priorities precede family blessing. • The genealogy is recorded. God values lineages; what happens in a home echoes through generations. Principles for Seeking God’s Favor in the Family • Put God’s purpose before personal comfort – David “realized that the LORD had established him … for the sake of His people” (14:2). Family thrives when the home serves God’s larger mission. • Inquire of the Lord regularly – Twice in the chapter David “inquired of God” before acting (vv. 10, 14). Decisions affecting spouse, children, schedules, and finances belong before the throne. • Name and celebrate God’s character at home – David’s baby names preached sermons. Today, weave Scripture into mealtime talk, bedtime rituals, and celebrations. • Record and remember God’s works – Chronicles exists because someone wrote it down. Keep journals, photos, testimonies that highlight God’s interventions for future generations. Practical Steps for Today • Schedule family worship: a fixed time each day or week to read, sing, and talk about the Word. • Pray over every decision that touches the household—schools, job changes, moves—until you have peace that “the LORD has spoken” (compare 1 Chronicles 14:15). • Bless your children by name, attaching a Scripture promise or attribute of God to each one. • Display reminders of answered prayer—post-it notes on the fridge, stones in a jar, however creative you like. • Guard the home’s spiritual atmosphere: what enters through screens, music, conversations. Proverbs 3:33 warns that the Lord curses the wicked household but “blesses the home of the righteous.” • Serve together. A family that ministers—whether hosting small groups, feeding neighbors, or short-term missions—walks in the favor that follows obedience. Encouragement from Related Passages • Psalm 127:3: “Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD.” View every son and daughter as divine trust. • Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “You shall teach them diligently to your children.” Faith instruction is not outsourced. • Joshua 24:15: “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Leadership starts with a decisive stand. • 2 Samuel 6:11: When the ark rested in Obed-edom’s home, “the LORD blessed him and all his household.” Hosting God’s presence still brings that outcome. Closing Thoughts David’s household grew under a banner of God’s hearing, knowing, and delivering. By prioritizing divine guidance, proclaiming His character, and weaving intentional spiritual habits into everyday life, any modern family can walk in the same favor—and leave a recorded legacy that shouts to coming generations, “Look what the Lord has done!” |
    |