DISCUSSION
Jabez has 2 verses, out of 31,103 verses in the Bible, devoted to him. In chapter 4:9-10 in 1 Chronicles, we are introduced to Jabez as being more honorable than his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because he caused her pain during his birth (Jabez means pain or misery). He lived with that as a constant reminder and that name may have had an unwanted affect in his life as he grew up. He didn’t let this effect on his life be his destination. Jabez turned pain into prayer. He asked God for His blessing and to increase his responsibilities; also, that God would be with him and keep him from evil so that he would not have pain. The Prayer of Jabez reveals that Jabez understands what many people do not — there is only one God and He should be the center of our work. God wants to bless every life. But, we must first make the choice to invite God into our life and ask for His blessings. Sometimes we have things that are in our life we have trouble dealing with. It may not be your name but may be something else in your life that makes you feel like a victim. Don’t let that be your destination in life. The example we see by Jabez, the example of turning “pain” into prayer, is a good way to deal with life. If you feel like a victim, you can follow Jabezes example by praying to God. Instead of allowing the circumstances of life to overwhelm you, you can begin to take charge of your life by asking God for the power to make the changes.
Prayer Requests:_______________________________________________________________