Friday, August 12, 2005

The Most Important Piece of Jabez's Prayer

II Chronicles 4:9 There was a man named Jabez who was more distinguished than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. 10 He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and extend my lands! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!" And God granted him his request.

This verse led to a huge best seller- "The Prayer of Jabez"- and it is a wonderful verse. Scripture encourages us to seek the Lord and wrestle with Him in prayer. And Jabez did pray a good prayer.

The most important piece is, however, "God granted".

What if God said. "NO". He has the right to say, "Jabez, for my glory I will not extend your land, I will not relent in trouble or pain."

The thing I love is that I bet Jabez would say, "I am Yours O Lord- do as You wish."

Our blessing and reward will primarily be after this life. He blesses us even now. Grace allows us to breathe and live.

God loves us- and sometimes that love hurts. But it is for our good and His glory!

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