The Restoration of Hope

The Restoration of Hope
1 Chronicles 6-10
When we dive into the reading of 1 and 2 Chronicles, we are immediately struck by the overlap between the books of Kings.  At first glance, it seems to be just another rerun of the previous books.  However, there are several significant differences.  To begin with, the books of 1 and 2 Kings were written shortly after the exile to provide a record of why Israel and Judah had been defeated and taken into captivity.  Thus, the focus is upon the descent of Israel and Judah into idolatry and God’s judgment upon the nation.  However, the books of Chronicles were written by Ezra after the return of Israel from the exile.  While Kings focuses on the sin of Israel and the reason for God’s judgment, Chronicles focuses more on the grace and forgiveness of God, encouraging the people as they began the process of rebuilding the nation and worshiping God. Chronicles thus seek to inspire hope and faith in God and the promise of the messianic king. The book aims to encourage people in a time when it seemed as if the task of rebuilding the nation was overwhelming.  Thus, in the genealogies, those individuals who obtained victory and blessing because of their obedience are highlighted. We see Jabez’s prayer (4:9-10) highlighted because it affirms his faith and trust in God in a time when many had abandoned God.  Because of his desire to obey God and his confidence in him, God blessed and honored him by answering his request.  In 5:18-22, the Sons of Reuben and Gad were victorious in battle because they cried out to God and trusted in him.  In 6:31-32, special mention is given to those who ministered in the temple by leading in hymnic worship.  Also highlighted are the sons of Tola and the families of Issachar, who were mighty men of valor and faith.   Thus, the genealogies serve to remind the people of God’s promises and faithfulness.  Even though Israel and Judah had rebelled against God and been sent into Exile, God’s faithfulness was still at work as he blessed those who walked in obedience to him.
This serves to remind us that in the events of our lives, there are times of trouble and even discipline when God holds us accountable for our sin and rebellion against him.  However, even amid his discipline, there is hope of restoration if we again seek him.  Like Israel, we can go through times of difficulty and trials when god seems absent.  However, Chronicles serves to give us hope by showing God’s grace and forgiveness.  God remains faithful to His promises and His covenant with His people, even when they do not.  As we read through the book, we are reminded that, despite our unfaithfulness, God remains faithful to His promise, and He can and will restore our lives when we trust in Him and turn to Him for His grace.  Restoration is always available when we turn back to him. With God, there is always hope, even when our lives seem hopeless.