Prayer of Jabez
The history of Jabez is one of the shortest in the Bible.
Jabez is only found in a few verses in 1 Chronicles, chapter 4.
Introduced in verse 9, the account of Jabez only lasts through
verse 10. His story is easily overlooked, because it falls in
the middle of lineage (this person begat that person, who begat
someone else). Yet in these two verses, is a powerful message
for today's Christian.
...Oh that thou would bless me indeed, and enlarge my
boarders, and that your hand might be with me, and you would
keep me from evil, and that it might not cause me
pain!"
Jabez asked for five distinct things.
- Jabez asked God to bless him "indeed", or
greatly! It is a hard thing for us to ask God to bless us a
lot, but verse nine begins with: And Jabez was more
honorable than his brothers... More honorable than
his brothers indicates that Jabez was not asking for
God's blessing for selfish reasons. He wanted to do God's
will, and honor God.
- Jabez asked God to "enlarge my boarders".
Here Jabez asked to have his area of influence expanded.
Once again, this was not to make him richer, but to extend
his ability to proclaim God's word.
- Jabez asked that God would keep "your hand might be with
me". When God places His hand upon you, you are
truly blessed! You are protected, you are fulfilled and you
are connected to the living God!
- Jabez asked God to "keep me from evil".
This goes two ways. Not only is he asking for God to protect
him from evil, but also to keep him from thinking or doing
evil!
- Jabez asked "that it might not cause me pain".
Jabez means "born in pain". Jabez asked God to
prohibit Jabez either from being caused, or causing
pain.
How does this apply to today's Christian? Say the Prayer of
Jabez daily. Look for anticipation at the blessings God will
bestow on you. Listen for God's voice. Take note of all of the
"Jabez moments" you receive. Let us know. We would be
glad to hear how this simple prayer is effecting you.
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