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 4:10 KJV
This is the prayer of Jabez that has caught the attention of so many in recent years. It has been misused in this way: people believe all they need to do is repeat it and wonderful things will happen for them. There is power in prayer, there is power in God’s Word, but no portion of Scripture should be used as a lucky charm. Having said that, the prayer of Jabez does provide a good pattern to follow: (1) Bless me indeed. Lord, give what You know will make me happy. (2) Enlarge my coast. I want to enjoy more of the inheritance You have for me. (3) That thy hand might be with me. I need Your protective care in all that I do. (4) Keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me. Sin will rob me of Your joy.
Lord, I do want Your blessing in my life and to experience more of Your inheritance. May You be with me according to Your promise and protect me from those that would do me harm and from decisions that would bring harm on myself.
