Read 1 Chronicles 4:1-43
In this passage, we have a little more history thrown in for good measure. It’s always interesting to see what little tidbits the Chronicler inserts in these long lists of hard to pronounce names! Because I had a hard time following all the relations, what struck me most was the mention of Jabez starting in verse 9.
I assume Jabez must be a descendant of Judah because of the placement in our text. Do you remember when the book “The Prayer of Jabez” was published by Bruce Wilkinson and received so much attention back in the early 2000’s? My search for my copy in David’s library was unsuccessful, but I do remember being impacted by the example Jabez sets for us.
The Chronicler introduces us to Jabez saying, “He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!’ And God granted him his request.” Jabez wasn’t afraid to approach God with a “big ask.” God rewarded that boldness.
Jabez wasn’t asking to be rich. He wanted to make a difference and knew that having God by his side was the only way that would happen. This 4-part prayer is a beautiful example for us, as well. Those parts are as follows:
- That God would bless him
- That God would enlarge his territory
- That God’s hand might be with him
- That God would keep him from evil
We can pray this 4-part prayer, too. But be careful. Are you ready for God to respond? An expanded territory may mean more responsibility in ministry or more people God wants you to care for. It sounds like Jabez wanted to be able touch more people and knew his circle of influence was limited. Do you ever dream about impacting more people by sharing your faith?
James 4:2 describes our human condition quite well. “You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it.” Jabez was not shy about asking God for what he wanted.
What are the desires of your heart? What do you want to ask God for today?
Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for the abundant blessings you have given me. I am ready for you to expand my territory so that I can touch more people and make an impact for you in this world. I know you have called me to be your disciple. Fill me with the boldness I need for this mission. Walk with me and fill my mouth when I open it. May all I say and do be pleasing to you. Protect me from those who would want to harm me and stop me from sharing the truth. I put my trust in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
