Text: 1 Chronicles 4: 9-11
Open:
Someone once said there is really very little difference between people, but this difference makes a great deal of difference. Jabez doesn't stand astride the Old Testament like a Moses or David; instead, you'll find him hiding in the least read section of one of the least read books of the Bible.
The name of Jabez holds meaning--"pain."
Despite his dismal prospects, Jabez found a way out.
This simple prayer tells us that God really does have unclaimed blessings waiting for you. And with commitment on your part, you can live in confident expectation that your heavenly Father will give you a life of abundance.
I. Blessings Come to Those Who Ask.
"Oh, that you would bless me . . ."
1. Blessing is radical test.
- To bless in the biblical sense means to ask for or impart supernatural favor.
- Jabez left it entirely up to God to decide what the blessings would be and where, when, and how Jabez would receive them.
II. God Wants Us To Live a Larger Life.
"Enlarge my territory . . ."
1. This is a plea for God to enlarge our lives so that we may make a greater impact for Him.
- This was no simple desire for more real estate on the part of Jabez.
2. The Jabez prayer is a revolutionary request for more ministry.
3. When we start begging for more influence and responsibility with which to honor Him, God will bring opportunities and people into our path.
God always intervenes when you put His agenda before yours and advance by faith.
Close:
Asking for God's blessings and enlarged ministry is not selfish -- it is entirely in keeping with God's desire and delight for you. What remains is denial of self and a venture of faith.
(Dane Fowlkes, Pastor)
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