Scripture:
“There was a man named Jabez who was more honorable than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. 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.” 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 NLT
Observation:
Jabez, we are told in this passage, was honorable above his brothers, but his birth was painful. He had a reputation for bringing pain to his mother. He decided that he didn’t want to be known for bringing pain, but for being blessed. He prayed that God would bless him and expand his territory. He prayed that God would be with him and keep him from trouble and pain. We wanted to turn his hurt into blessing.
Application:
It’s not wrong to ask God to bless us and multiply our effectiveness. We serve the God who can take pain and turn it into praise. We serve the God who take take hurt and turn it into healing. There are times in my past when I didn’t think I should ask God to bless me because that seemed selfish. The fact is, if I am not blessed, I cannot be a blessing. I want to be a blessing to those around me so I must be blessed.
Prayer:
Father, I join with Jabez today and pray that You would be with me, bless me and my family. Bless my church and my city. Expand my territory and keep me from trouble and pain. Let my life be a blessing and a source for joy to those around me. Help me to walk in step with You at all times and to fulfill Your will in my life. Bless the meeting I must lead today and let churches be planted as a result.
For Your Glory,
Jeff
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