Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.
In recent years, the prayer of Jabez has become quite popular. Books have been written about it. The prayer itself has been turned into a formula for success. Prayers aren’t formulas. They aren’t magic words. They are sincere expressions of a heart in sincere, continuous communication with God. Jabez’ prayer must have been that. He was, we are told, more honorable than his brothers, and his prayer was answered.
