So many times when reading the Old Testament we skip over the genealogies because we think they are not important or maybe we we just find them boring.
Well, I think God place a “Gotcha moment” right dab in the middle of the genealogy of the tribes of Israel–a dramatic pause—-a breath of fresh air. Whatever we might call it.
The genealogy found in 1 Chronicles 4 is interrupted by an earnest prayer. It gives us a glimpse into the life of Jabez. Jabez did not do any mighty dead, he just prayed a simple prayer, one that we can call “the prayer of Jabez.”
Jabez prayed to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory, that your hand will be with me, and that you will keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain.” 1 Chronicles 4:10.
Jabez opened his heart and poured out his need.
He asked that God would
1. bless him
2. help him in his work or help him minister to others. “enlarge my territory”
3. be with him in all he did
4. keep him from evil and any harm he may do to others.
This scripture ends with these words: “And God granted him what he requested.”
This prayer was personal, yet it recognized God as the center of his life. When we place God at the center, we then, indeed, will see His blessings in our lives.
Have a blessed day!
In Christian love,
Diane