Good Family Genes
Today’s Verse:
And their brethren among all the families of Issachar were valiant men of might, reckoned in all by their genealogies fourscore and seven thousand. ~1 Chronicles 7:5
How familiar are you with your family genes? In my family genetic history, nearsightedness, lean body mass, and elevated cholesterol are common. Family genes are traits that we pass down to each generation. This morning, we are looking at the families of Issachar. We see three strong and good “spiritually-genetic traits” about their men.
We see men who were involved.
“And the princes of Issachar were with Deborah; even Issachar, and also Barak: he was sent on foot into the valley. For the divisions of Reuben there were great thoughts of heart” (Judges 5:15). The men of Issachar were one of three to four tribes of Israel who were committed to fighting alongside of Deborah and Barak against the Midianites. We live in a day of non-commitment. Christians are more reluctant to be involved. However, the men of Issachar let it be known by their commitment, presence, and involvement that they were fighting against the Midianites. In the Christian life, if we are going to be used of God, we must be involved all the way. Be involved with your children. Be involved with your church ministries. Be involved with the men’s or the women’s ministries of the church. Be involved in prayer meetings. Be involved in reaching the unsaved with the gospel. Be involved.
We see men who were intrepid.
These men were valiant men of might. They were brave, courageous, and fearless. Interestingly, we are also told that they were reckoned by their genealogies fourscore and seven thousand. Being brave and courageous was in their blood. In military families, there is a multi-generational commitment to joining our armed forces and valiantly representing our country. The men of Issachar were not afraid of being counted on for conflict against the enemy. Don’t be afraid to take stand for right doctrine. Don’t be afraid of taking a stand with your pastor. Don’t be afraid of taking a stand at work or school for your faith. Remember that there are seven thousand who have not bowed their knees.
We see men who were insightful.
These men had understanding of the times, to know what Israel was to do. They had wisdom. They had prudence. They could analyze and make good decisions. They had good discernment. When the nation needed to make critical decisions, the men of Issachar were the go-to men for insight. Insight comes from reading the Bible. It is derived from experience. It is stored up from listening to other wise men. One of the criteria the Apostles gave for choosing spiritual leaders was that the men had to be full of wisdom. “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise….” Spend your time with wise men who make good decisions and have the mind of God. Be someone who directs other people in the right path. Be an insightful man.
The men of Issachar had good spiritual genes. They passed down from generation to generation. As we disciple and mentor others, make certain that you are transferring good spiritual traits: faith, courage, the fullness of the Spirit, grace, compassion, wisdom, a heart for souls, humility, diligence, and vision.
Have a consecrated God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Acts 18-20