I've been thinking about the topic of descendants. And so I turned to the book of 1 Chronicles. It's a remarkable book.
It starts off with a full list of names and gender records again.
The author is probably Ezra, the priest and scribe.

Here, the family history of Jacob’s 12 sons is explored, and among them, the tribe of Judah is given a special place because it will be the main thread of salvation history. God’s plan to save humanity and restore its relationship with Him… especially through the descendants of David—all the way to Christ!

Among all these names, one stands out to me—one that is better known, one that is special, and about whom more is revealed than just his name: Jabez.

Jabez had been given a negative name by his mother. But he did not let that negative label define him. He did not allow the negative words spoken over him to determine his future.

It is a testimony to the way of life and character of a man who honors God. And: God’s blessing is the result of our devotion to Him.

Jabez's prayer is a wonderful example for us!

Like Jabez, we may have many reasons to feel depressed about one problem or another. It may be that, from a natural perspective, the situation looks pretty bad, but: “God, expand my territory!”

When the enemy tries to rob you of your courage and confidence, …: “God, expand my territory!”

And Jabez was more highly regarded than his brothers, and his mother named him Jabez, saying, “For I gave birth to him in pain!” And Jabez called upon the God of Israel and said, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm, so that no pain may come upon me!” And God … granted him what he had asked for!
1 Chronicles 4:10