Who is Jabez and why should we care?

In keeping with our study of prayer, I have included one of the most meaningful prayers and one that we can apply to ourselves.

When searching for God’s direction in our life, we might gain courage and direction from prayer of Jabez.  In that prayer, we find an example of faithful prayer in action. 

The Old Testament book of 1 Chronicles is a genealogical record written by Ezra, after the Babylonian exile of God’s people.

For the rebellious tribe of Judah returning from exile, Jabez’s story was significant.  Despite his hard luck beginning, he was honored because of his relationship with God and knowing that God was there for him.   This is a valuable lesson for us also.  Perhaps we all struggle with who we are and our own identity.  Jabez knew!  Despite the punishment of his exile, he recognized the need for repentance and seeking God’s will in his life.  He found a purpose in his life!

Jabez isn’t like us though.  He doesn’t live amid our modern materialism.  However, his prayer is meaningful to us as well.  To pray like Jabez is to submit our lives to God as a blank canvas.   In his whole-hearted devotion and faith Jabez is not afraid to tell God his desire and needs.   We, too, pray with a fervent desire that we may be productive and that we will be committed to being faithful in all things. 

                                                What is the prayer of Jabez?

in a single phrase, Jabez demonstrated how to pray God’s will over his life.  He discovered that ordinary, personal everyday needs can be brought to God.     He was not aware that in a few centuries, God would come to earth and be present with humankind.

However, this simple prayer is a model for us also.  Through Jabez, this prayer teaches the importance of a simple everyday relationship with our Creator.

When searching for God’s direction, we can turn to the prayer of Jabez.  In it, we find an example of faithful prayer in action. 

“Jabez called upon the God of Israel, say, “Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!!” and God granted what he asked” (1 Chronicles 4:10)

 We ask the Lord to bless us; to use us for His purpose.  To keep us safe.  We ask Him to keep us from pain.  We ask for enough money to support us, to help with worthy causes and to help others; we ask God to keep us under His wings! 

If God blesses Jabez, then He will also bless us.  He is the same yesterday, today and forever.  

                   Can you pray this prayer of Jabez?  Is it meaningful to you?