Prayer of Jabez

There was a man named Jabez who was more honorable than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez (sorrow maker) because his birth had been so painful. He was the one who prayed (cried out or called) to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand (enlarge) my territory (border)! Please be with me in all that I do (let Your hand be with me), and keep me from all trouble (harm or evil) and pain!” And God granted him his request. 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (NLT).

1 Chronicles provides a history of Israel to the returning Jews from Babylonian exile.  The first nine chapters of 1 Chronicles gives the genealogy of Israel starting with Adam.  In this genealogy is a short historical note on Jabez. Jabez was a descendent of the tribe of Judah.  He is most remembered for his simple prayer request to God found at 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.

The Chronicler explains the origin of Jabez’s name. Jabez sounds like a Hebrew word meaning “pain” or “distress” and it literally means “he afflicts, gives pain.” Jabez received this name from his mother because she had such a hard and painful time at his birth (Genesis 3:16). However, Jabez was more honorable and distinguished than any of his brothers. Even more, Jabez’s prayer to God changed the outcome of his life. 

The prayer of Jabez acknowledges God as the true center of his life and Lord of his work, possessions, and body. Jabez’s prayer begins with (1) a plea for God’s wonderful blessings, (2) help with all his work ("enlarge my territory''), (3) God’s Presence to be with him in all he did, and (4) God’s personal protection from evil, hurt, tragedy, pain, and harm. He prayed precisely for God’s protection from harm and to keep him safe from all evil that may come his way. Jabez’s last request might also mean to keep him away from evil. God heard Jabez’s prayer and granted Jabez’s request.