God Grants Jabez’s Request
My favorite verse in the Bible is about an honorable man. His name is Jabez. What did he do? He prayed. That’s it. Does that sound boring? It could be, except for the outcome.
The result is profound. After Jabez prays, the Bible says that “God granted his request.” How reassuring is that?
This simple phrase, that God answered his request, is seemingly not profound, but it is most encouraging to me.
It’s a reminder that God hears our prayers—even our bold, audacious, far-reaching requests—and then answers them in the affirmative.
When I pray, there is often a mystery to the words I say and what they mean: when God answers, how he answers, and if he answers the way I expect him to.
Sometimes it makes sense to me and other times, not so much. During dry times, it may seem like he never answers, but there are also times when the answers are quick and obvious.
This verse is a powerful reminder to me that God does indeed hear our prayers and answer them. Just ask Jabez.
[Read through the Bible with us this year. Today’s reading is 1 Chronicles 5-7, and today’s post is on 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.]
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
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