A Petition For Blessing

[Jabez] was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!” And God granted him his request.

1 Chronicles 4:10

Among the myriad of names listed in the long genealogy in 1 Chronicles, one name in particular stands out—Jabez. His mother named him “Distress” (which is what Jabez means) because her labor was so difficult; but that is not what he was best known for. Jabez gained distinction by his prayer. His requests were ordinary enough—who would not wish for prosperity and the absence of trouble! But Jabez trusted God enough to ask God for these things. History records that God granted his request, and obviously Jabez told everyone about God’s answer to his prayer.

Imitate the faith Jabez had in God. Boldly ask the Lord to bless you—to be with you in whatever you do and wherever you go.

• Dear God, please bless me and be with me in all that I do . . .