1 Chronicles 4:10

And Jabez called out to the God of Israel, "If only You would bless me and enlarge my territory! May Your hand be with me and keep me from harm, so that I will be free from pain." And God granted the request of Jabez.

Study Bible

And Jabez called out
The name "Jabez" in Hebrew is יַעְבֵּץ (Ya'betz), which means "sorrow" or "pain." This name reflects the circumstances of his birth, as his mother bore him in pain (1 Chronicles 4:9). Despite this, Jabez's action of calling out signifies a proactive faith. In the Hebrew context, calling out to God is an act of worship and dependence, showing that Jabez sought divine intervention rather than succumbing to his circumstances.

to the God of Israel
This phrase identifies the specific deity Jabez is addressing, the God of Israel, Yahweh. In the historical context, this is significant because it shows Jabez's allegiance to the God of his forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It underscores a covenant relationship, where Jabez acknowledges God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His people.

If only You would bless me
The Hebrew word for "bless" is בָּרַךְ (barak), which means to kneel, to praise, or to invoke divine favor. Jabez is not asking for a superficial or materialistic blessing but for a deep, abiding favor from God. This request reflects a heart that desires God's best, aligning with the biblical understanding that true blessing comes from a relationship with God.

and enlarge my territory
In ancient times, land was a sign of wealth, security, and God's favor. The request to "enlarge my territory" can be seen as a desire for increased influence and responsibility. It is not merely a plea for more land but a metaphor for expanding one's capacity to serve and impact others for God's glory. This reflects a heart willing to take on more for the sake of God's kingdom.

May Your hand be with me
The "hand" of God is a biblical metaphor for His power and presence. Jabez is asking for God's guidance and strength in his life. This request acknowledges human limitations and the need for divine assistance. It is a humble recognition that without God's hand, human efforts are futile.

and keep me from harm
The Hebrew word for "harm" is רָעָה (ra'ah), which can mean evil, distress, or adversity. Jabez is asking for protection from anything that would cause him to stray from God's path or bring him into suffering. This reflects a desire for holiness and a life that honors God, free from the snares of sin and evil.

so that I will be free from pain
This phrase ties back to Jabez's name, which means "pain." He is asking God to reverse the curse of his name and life circumstances. It is a plea for transformation and redemption, showing faith that God can change one's destiny. This reflects the biblical theme of God turning mourning into joy and sorrow into gladness.

And God granted the request of Jabez
This final phrase is a testament to God's faithfulness and willingness to respond to sincere prayer. It shows that God honors those who seek Him earnestly and aligns their desires with His will. This outcome encourages believers to approach God with boldness and faith, trusting that He hears and answers prayer according to His perfect plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jabez
A man noted for his prayer to God, seeking blessing and protection. His name means "sorrow" or "pain," which is significant in understanding his plea to God.

2. God of Israel
The covenant God of the Israelites, whom Jabez calls upon for blessing and protection.

3. The Prayer of Jabez
A specific prayer where Jabez asks for blessing, expansion of territory, God's presence, and protection from harm.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Jabez's account highlights the importance of earnest and specific prayer. Believers are encouraged to approach God with their desires and needs, trusting in His willingness to respond.

Seeking God's Blessing
Jabez's request for blessing and expansion is not selfish but rooted in a desire for God's favor. Christians should seek God's blessing with the intent to honor Him and further His kingdom.

Dependence on God's Presence
Jabez asks for God's hand to be with him, emphasizing the need for divine guidance and support in all endeavors.

Protection from Harm
Jabez's prayer for protection reminds believers of the importance of seeking God's safeguarding from physical and spiritual dangers.

God's Faithfulness
The fact that God granted Jabez's request demonstrates His faithfulness and readiness to respond to the prayers of His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jabez's name mean, and how does it relate to his prayer?

2. How does Jabez's prayer reflect a balance between seeking personal blessing and relying on God's presence?

3. In what ways can Jabez's prayer serve as a model for our own prayers today?

4. How does the account of Jabez encourage us to trust in God's faithfulness and willingness to answer prayer?

5. What other biblical figures can you think of who prayed for God's blessing and protection, and how were their prayers answered?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
God's promise to Abraham to bless him and make his name great, which parallels Jabez's request for blessing and expansion.

Psalm 139:5
The psalmist speaks of God's hand being upon him, similar to Jabez's request for God's hand to be with him.

Matthew 7:7-11
Jesus teaches about asking, seeking, and knocking, which aligns with Jabez's bold request to God.