The Prayer of Jabez, Part 1
"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!' . . . " 1 Chronicles
4:10.
What is the first thing you think of when reading this prayer? My first impression
was, "This guy is stuck on himself or something. I mean, who has the nerve
to go to God and pray such a self-centered prayer. Jabez really has a lot of
nerve thinking he is so high and mighty". But after hearing a sermon*
on this prayer, reading the book** that inspired
the sermon, and contemplating the prayer itself, I began to realize why Jabez
prayed such an apparently "self-centered" prayer. If I really want
to make an impact for God, then I need to start with myself. This is one secret
God wants everyone to know.
Since my introduction to this "dangerous" prayer, one thought has
captured my mind. God wants to change the world, starting with me.
Believe it or not, it's true. Jabez believed. Check out the response, ".
. . So God granted him what he requested." 1 Chron. 4:10. Not convinced
yet? That's precisely my point. If I don't believe that God wants to radically
alter my life, how am I going to share my convictions with others.
Before we begin our treasure hunt, you should know that there are serious risks
involved. Just like hunting for a pirate's treasure in a dark cave, there are
unexpected surprises at every turn. Not one who follows this map will remain
the same. For the believer, the dangers include the realization that our excuses
for doubt, sin, fear, and not sharing our faith disappear before our eyes. To
those who have not yet accepted Christ, beware. Your excuses for not accepting
just might vanish.
A few weeks ago, I took the challenge and began to pray this "dangerous"
prayer. Thinking I understood the implications of this prayer, the words of
Jabez echoed in my mind and flowed from my lips. Over night, things began to
change. God began to show me areas in my life that needed help. He coupled these
"revelations" with promises and victories. He also revealed the source
of my doubting and mistrust of His precious promises. As the clouds of doubt
swept away, Christ came into view again. The peace that had become a distant
memory, filled my heart again. My excuses for hanging onto bad habits and cherished
idols have been destroyed and a desire to see those whom Christ purchased with
His blood safe in Glory has since been restored.
This was only the beginning, however. There have been many other changes in
my life the past few weeks, as well. I feel a renewed purpose in life. My mission
has become clearer. My goals and desires have done an about face. My weaknesses
have become instruments to prove God's strength and my stubborn independence
has become a partnership of interdependence between God and myself. This is
just the beginning and already God has "messed up" my life. If your
looking for a change but you don't know where to begin, join our treasure hunt.
Remember one thing, though. If you pray the prayer of Jabez, WATCH OUT!
God just might "mess up" your life, too. Are you ready?
Written by Jason P Knarr
Continued to Jabez, Part 2
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