Amazing Prayer:
Over the
past 40 years of ministry I have read the Prayer of Jabez found in I Chronicles
4: 9 & 10 dozens if not hundreds of times. I have read countless articles,
sermons, and even a book on this prayer. However, with all that is happening in
the world the Lord has drawn me to this prayer daily for the past two weeks.
1
Chronicles 4:9-10 in NKJV reads:
9 Now Jabez was more
honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying,
“Because I bore him in pain.” 10 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.
As I read this short prayer,
I realized that Jabez was a man of passion and also felt a personal close
relationship to God, which allowed him to come into his presence and ask.
As I have read and
meditated on this prayer God showed me a couple of things, that I feel are
relevant for each of us today.
1.
We must be Honorable (a
right relationship with God) every moment of our life.
2.
As we pray ask (personalize it) for
the desires of your hearts. Notice Jabez prayed!
a.
If only you will bless
me!
· Throughout
all the battles we face in life physical, emotional, financial, relationships,
etc. We understand the reality is clear
that what we really need is God blessing today and every day.
b.
Extend my boarder!
· God
expand my business, ministry, sphere of influences so all that you do glorifies
God.
c.
Let your hand be with me!
· God
I can’t accomplish anything with out you, so please take my hand and lead me
where you want me, and stay with me throughout all of life’s challenges.
d.
Keep me from harm!
· In
the midst of danger, pandemics, and troubles keep me safe, so that I will be
able to rejoice in the glory of your safety.
e.
So that, I will not cause
any pain!
· So
that I will not cause pain to others, especially so that I do not lead other’s
astray in the relationship with you, or make other’s miss knowing you by my
actions. Or cause pain to those that I love in my actions, or words.
f.
God grant this request!
· Amen!
Amen!