1 Chronicles 4:9-10 - There was a man named Jabez who was more distinguished 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 extend my lands. Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain." And God granted him his request.
Observation: Jabez prayed specifically to be protected from trouble and pain. We live in a fallen world filled with sin and it is important to ask God to keep us safe from the unavoidable evil that comes our way. But we also must avoid evil motives, desires and actions that begin within us. Therefore we must not only seek God's protection from evil, but we must also ask God to guard our thoughts and actions. We can begin using His protection by filling our mind with positive thoughts and actions.
Application: Jabez is remembered for a prayer request rather than a heroic act. In his prayer Jabez asked Go to: 1) Bless him, 2) Help him in his work (extend my lands), 3) Be with him in all he did, and 4) Keep him from trouble and pain. Jabez acknowledged God as the true center of his work. When we pray for God's blessing we should also ask Him to take His rightful position as Lord over our work, over our family, time, and our recreation. Obeying Him in daily responsibilities is heroic living.
Prayer: Heavenly Father you are holy and I ask and invite you to be the center of my life, work, family, time, business and recreation. It is my desire that you take your rightful position as Lord of my life in Jesus name....A-men
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