“And that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain.” – 1 Chronicles 4:10Jabez’s name meant “pain.” His mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.” Can you imagine naming your child “Pain”? Every time someone called his name, it must have been a reminder of sorrow, grief, or hardship. It could have been because his mother experienced a great deal of pain in chi...

“That Your hand would be with me…” – 1 Chronicles 4:10One of the most important parts of Jabez’s prayer was his request for God’s hand to be with him. This wasn’t just a sentimental phrase or a casual request. It was a plea for God’s anointing, guidance, and power. He knew that without God’s presence, all his efforts would be in vain. Jabez wasn’t asking to accomplish great things on his own. He w...

“And enlarge my territory…” – 1 Chronicles 4:10Enlarge my territory. This is about achievement. Each of us has a desire to achieve, and we should bring that to God. Have you ever asked the Lord to enlarge your territory? The Apostle Paul did this repeatedly. In Ephesians 6:18 and following, after discussing spiritual warfare and the armor of God, he requests, “Pray for me that doors would be opene...

“Oh, that You would bless me indeed…” – 1 Chronicles 4:10Jabez prayed, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed.” We sometimes water down the word “bless.” We say, “Bless the food,” or “Bless the missionaries,” or even, “Bless you” after someone sneezes. But Jabez’s prayer was personal and specific. He cried out for God’s favor in his life.It’s okay to ask for God’s blessing. Deuteronomy 28 describes t...

“And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, ‘Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain.’ So God granted him what he requested.”     - 1 Chronicles 4:10Is there a desire in your life to be great? Oftentimes, I’ll hear men and women talk about their goals, their aspirations, and th...