And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.--1 Chronicles 4:
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The first several chapters of the Book of 1st Chronicles are comprised mostly of genealogies. Today’s reading brought me to Jabez. Some of them men chronicled were characterized as unfaithful, evil or wicked, but Jabez is singled out here as being more honorable than his brothers. Why was he different from his brethren? Jabez called on His God. Jabez was a man of prayer who served God. He desired to do good and not cause hurt to others. May I owe no one anything but love. Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
By God’s Spirit of Grace I can want for myself what Jabez wanted...the honor that comes from my God. I want to please my Creator...the One who died for me and now lives to make intercession for me!
Bless me indeed, Father... with the knowledge of Your love...I want to be filled with all the goodness of who You are! Enlarge my territory...my area of service. My desire is to leave the fragrance of Your Son wherever I go. How beautiful are the feet of those who share your gospel! May many see and place their trust in You!
May Your righteous right hand guide and direct my steps....I want You to uphold me and keep me from falling. I want your hand upon me always! Keep me from evil and allow me not to grieve and hurt those around me. Work all together in my life for good...even the evil intended by others. Transform my sorrows into blessings!
Answer my prayer, Father! Keep me close to Your heart so I can pray Your desires. Like Jabez, I am calling on You my God, in humility and brokenness...."Lord bless me!"
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