God’s Blessing in Sorrow
by Heather Tietz
1 Chronicles 4:9-10
Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother named him Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him with sorrow.” Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that you would bless me indeed, and enlarge my border! May your hand be with me, and may you keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” God granted him that which he requested.
Jabez began life as the underdog.
His mother grieved his birth. She named him “Sorrow.” Yet, in spite of bad beginnings, Jabez lived an honorable life. Perhaps the reminder of where he began and the fear of where he was going humbled him. Instead of suppressing him, his name drove him to desire more of life.
He did not want to be a person of sorrow. He knew he couldn’t rise out of this on his own.
Jabez called out to the Almighty, “Make me more than my name. Save me from the sorrow of poverty. Save me from the sorrow of evil. Save me from the sorrow of life without Your attentive hand. I don’t want to be the person everyone thinks I’m destined to be.”
And God, like a Father, pleased to give good gifts to His children, answered him.
Jesus says to us in Luke 11:9 “I tell you, keep asking, and it will be given you. Keep seeking, and you will find. Keep knocking, and it will be opened to you.”
Before jumping into your pursuits, bravely, proudly, perhaps foolishly, knock on the doors of heaven like Jabez did, and request God’s help first. God’s blessing on your endeavors means success.
Reflection
What is my next great endeavor? Have I laid it before God like Jabez did?
Prayer
Dear Lord, Bless me, indeed! You know what I need. You know what I want to do. Oh, Lord, expand my influence. Help me to stand to bring honor and glory to You. In Jesus’ dear name I pray, Amen.
