A new prayer to Claim for the new year; The Prayer of Jabez

 

Read: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us Ephesians 3:20

 

Good Morning!

Understanding and appreciating who you are and where you come from is made possible by knowing your identity. A sense of belonging can be derived from one's identity. Some of us were named by our parents, after relatives, as well as after other people, places, and things. During biblical times, mothers frequently chose names for their children based on the challenges or hardships they may have experienced, thereby perpetuating a sense of "negativity" within the child. Powerful are the words that come from our mouths. Even when we do not intend to, the power of our tongue can speak life or death.

  Jabez, a member of the family lineage of Judah, is highlighted in 1 Chronicles 4:9-10. Jabez, born out of negativity, was his name. Jabez was named by his mother due to the pain she experienced giving birth to him. In a negative sense, Jabez is starting his life by hearing himself being called a pain. The words we speak can have the power to bring either life or death upon us.

  Despite his negative name, Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, as the word indicates. Does this sound familiar to you?  Do you constantly find yourself striving to do good and honorable things, only to be attacked, ridiculed, or talked about negatively?

  Refusing to accept his negative fate, Jabez took a stand. In search of blessings, he turned to God in prayer. Just like Jabez, there is nothing wrong with us praying and asking God for blessings. In his petition, Jabez asked God to protect him from evil and prevent him from causing pain.

  Daily, we confront evil. Regularly, we will face trials and tribulations, as even the Bible tells us. The difference is determined by how we respond to our evils. Jabez's request was to enlarge his territory. This implies that God's blessings extend beyond us. It is the actions we undertake for God's honor and glory that surpass our impact on others.

  Take time this year to seek God's blessing. Ask him to help regain your identity in him. 

  For a deeper understanding of this concise yet impactful prayer, I recommend exploring the book The Prayer of Jabez available on Amazon.

 

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