How can we apply the recognition of lesser-known individuals to our church community? Reading the Verse “1 Chronicles 7:13 — ‘The sons of Naphtali: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem — the descendants of Bilhah.’ Why These Names Matter • God intentionally recorded four little–known men whose stories are otherwise silent. • Their inclusion affirms that every believer, no matter how obscure, has a place in God’s redemptive history. • If the Holy Spirit considered their names worth preserving for eternity, our churches should value every member today. Biblical Principles for Valuing the “Unknowns” • 1 Corinthians 12:22 — “On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable.” • Romans 16 lists 35 ordinary believers whom Paul greets by name. Personal affirmation is biblical. • Hebrews 6:10 — “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown toward His name.” If He remembers, we should too. • Mark 12:41-44 — Jesus noticed an unnamed widow’s two small coins; He honors unseen devotion. Practical Steps for Our Church • Learn and use every member’s name; a remembered name communicates worth. • Publicly acknowledge hidden ministries (nursery, maintenance, intercessors). • Rotate testimonies: invite “quiet” members to share how God is working in their lives. • Establish mentor-apprentice pairs so overlooked gifts are identified and cultivated. • Celebrate service milestones of behind-the-scenes volunteers, not just platform leaders. • Create prayer directories that include brief bios of each congregant; pray through them regularly in small groups. • Encourage leaders to write personal notes of gratitude to those who rarely receive thanks. Encouragement for the Overlooked • Your name is written in heaven (Luke 10:20). That is the highest recognition. • The Lord who singled out Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem sees every act done for Him today. • Faithfulness, not fame, is the ultimate measure of significance (Matthew 25:21). |
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