Prayer for increase is a biblical concept that encompasses the desire for growth, expansion, and abundance in various aspects of life, including spiritual, material, and relational dimensions. This type of prayer is rooted in the belief that God is the ultimate provider and that He desires to bless His people according to His will and purpose.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible contains numerous examples and teachings that highlight the importance and efficacy of praying for increase. One of the most notable prayers for increase is found in the Old Testament, in the prayer of Jabez. In 1 Chronicles 4:10 , Jabez calls upon God, saying, "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." God granted his request, demonstrating His willingness to respond to prayers for increase when they align with His divine plan.

Another significant passage is found in the New Testament, where Jesus teaches about seeking God's provision. In Matthew 7:7-8 , Jesus encourages His followers, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." This teaching underscores the importance of persistent prayer and faith in God's ability to provide.

Spiritual Increase

Praying for spiritual increase involves seeking a deeper relationship with God, greater wisdom, and enhanced spiritual gifts. The Apostle Paul frequently prayed for the spiritual growth of the early church. In Ephesians 1:17-18 , he writes, "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him. I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints."

Material and Relational Increase

While spiritual growth is paramount, the Bible also acknowledges the legitimacy of praying for material and relational increase. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the needs of daily life, assuring His followers that God is aware of their needs. In Matthew 6:33 , He instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This verse emphasizes the priority of seeking God's kingdom while trusting Him for material provision.

Relational increase, such as the expansion of family or community, is also a theme in Scripture. Psalm 127:3-5 highlights the blessing of children, stating, "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them."

Conditions for Increase

The Bible presents certain conditions for receiving increase through prayer. Faith is a crucial component, as seen in James 1:6-7 , which advises, "But let him ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not expect to receive anything from the Lord." Additionally, prayers for increase should align with God's will and be motivated by a desire to glorify Him, as stated in 1 John 5:14 : "This is the confidence that we have in Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us."

Conclusion

While the Bible encourages believers to pray for increase, it also calls for a heart aligned with God's purposes, a spirit of gratitude, and a commitment to using any increase for the advancement of His kingdom.