“Jabez was more honorable than his brothers . . . Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that
you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from
harm so that I will be free from pain.’ And God granted his request.” 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (NIV)
Introduction
Have you ever felt stuck in life? Like you’re just surviving rather than thriving? Perhaps you
think you’re too ordinary, too flawed, or too insignificant to make a difference. But the truth is,
God created you for so much more. He designed you to live a life of purpose, impact, and
significance.
The story of Jabez is a hidden treasure tucked away in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles—a
section of the Bible most of us might skim through. Yet, in the middle of this long list of names,
God pauses to spotlight one man. In just two verses, Jabez’s prayer and God’s response are
revealed, offering timeless lessons for anyone who feels ordinary but dares to ask God for
more.
The story of Jabez shows us how anyone—regardless of their background—can rise above
mediocrity and live a life that pleases God.
The Story of Jabez
Jabez’s story begins with a name—his name, which means “pain” or “sorrow.” His mother
named him this because she bore him in pain. We’re not told the specifics of her suffering, but
it’s clear that from the moment of his birth, Jabez carried a label tied to difficulty and hardship.
Imagine growing up with a name that constantly reminded you and everyone around you of
pain. We have a few of such names in our various ethnic groups.
But Jabez refused to let his name define his destiny. He decided that his life would not be
limited by the circumstances of his birth or the expectations of others. Instead, he turned to
God with one of the boldest prayers recorded in Scripture.
The Bible says, “Jabez was more honourable than his brothers. His mother had named him
Jabez, saying, ‘I gave birth to him in pain.’ Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you
would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm
so that I will be free from pain.’ And God granted his request” (1 Chronicles 4:9-10, NIV).
Though Jabez’s life begins with pain—his story doesn’t end there. Instead of allowing his past or
circumstances to define him, Jabez looked to God. He cried out with boldness and faith, and
God honoured his prayer.
The Significance of Jabez’s Prayer
Jabez’s prayer is both simple and profound. It’s a model of faith, ambition, and dependence on
God. Let’s break it down:
- “Oh, that you would bless me!”
Jabez asked for God’s blessings, understanding that every good and perfect gift comes
from above (James 1:17). His request wasn’t selfish—it was rooted in a desire for God’s
favour to rest on his life. This teaches us that it’s okay to ask God for blessings when our
motives are pure and aligned with His will. - “Enlarge my territory!”
In asking for an expanded territory, Jabez was seeking greater influence, opportunities,
and responsibilities. He wasn’t content with mediocrity; he wanted to live a life of
significance, fulfilling the purpose God had for him. This challenges us to dream big and
trust God to expand our reach for His glory. - “Let your hand be with me.”
Jabez recognized his need for God’s presence and guidance. He understood that
blessings and opportunities mean little without God’s hand leading and sustaining us.
This part of his prayer reflects a heart of humility and dependence on God. - “Keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.”
Finally, Jabez prayed for protection from harm and deliverance from pain. This wasn’t a
request for a trouble-free life but a desire to overcome the challenges that could derail
his purpose. It shows us that God cares about our struggles and is willing to help us rise
above them.
Lessons from Jabez’s Life
The story of Jabez is short, but it’s packed with lessons that are just as relevant today as they
were centuries ago. This story shows us that our limitations—whether imposed by others or by
life’s challenges—are no match for the power of God. His prayer reveals a heart that dared to
dream, a faith that sought God’s favor, and a humility that depended on His guidance.
As we explore the lessons from Jabez’s life, we find principles that encourage us to rise above
mediocrity, embrace God’s purpose, and live boldly in the promises He has for us.
- Your Beginning Doesn’t Define Your End
Jabez’s name reflected the pain surrounding his birth, but he didn’t let that define his
life. Many of us carry labels—failure, unworthy, inadequate—that can feel limiting. But
God specializes in transforming lives. Just as Jabez overcame his beginnings, you can
too. No matter what challenges you’ve faced, God can rewrite your story when you turn
to Him. - God Honors Bold Prayers
Jabez didn’t pray small, timid prayers. He asked God for big things: to bless him, expand
his territory, and protect him. He believed God could do the impossible, and he wasn’t
afraid to ask for it. This teaches us to come boldly before God, trusting in His ability to
do exceedingly more than we can imagine (Ephesians 3:20). - God Values Character Over Circumstances
The Bible says Jabez was “more honourable than his brothers.” His honor likely came
from his faith in God and his desire to live a life pleasing to Him. While we don’t know
much about Jabez’s family, we do know this: his faith made him stand out. In today’s
world, it’s easy to feel overshadowed by others’ success or popularity. But what matters
to God isn’t where you come from; it’s the condition of your heart.
Conclusion
Jabez’s story is proof that you were made for more. No matter where you’ve come from or
what you’ve been through, God has a plan for your life that’s bigger than your circumstances.
He wants to bless you, enlarge your influence, and guide you every step of the way.
So, what’s holding you back? Are you limiting yourself by small prayers or low expectations?
Take a lesson from Jabez: dare to ask God for more. Dream big, pray boldly, and trust Him to
work in and through you.
God is still in the business of answering prayers and transforming lives. Just like Jabez, you can
rise above your past, step into your purpose, and experience the “more” that God has for you.
All you have to do is ask.
Stay Blessed!
Please continue to join us on Asempa 94.7 FM – Sundays 5.30 am., Sunny 88.7 FM – Tuesdays
5:30 am; and YFM 107.9 – Sundays 6.30am; for our Radio Bible Study as well as Sunny FM
88.7 FM every Sunday at 3:30 pm. for Hymns and their Stories.