Call on God: Praying with Jabez Part 1

Daily Scripture Threshing for Thursday, August 17, 2023

Today’s Text: 1 Chronicles 4:1-10

Key Verse: 1 Chronicles 4:10 (KJV): “And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.”

Jabez’s story remains a testimony to the fact that our lives can deviate from any awkward tone. It is a reminder that God answers prayer and changes things for our good. Jabez family trajectory was a tragedy. Imagine a complete family tree, and no single significant personality who may be reckoned as outstanding until Jabez took destiny to his hands.

And, today, there’s a lot that we can take from Jabez's life: from how he rose from being a minor Bible character; to the secret that brought him to the frontline of all time fame; to shaping a path to a life of victorious prayer; and, to how he transformed from a pain-causer (a maker of sorrow)—a sort of prophecy for his life—into defiling that destiny by calling on the God of Israel.

Beloved, a great way to start is knowing that God wants to bless everyone regardless of awkward backgrounds is a major key. But, you must first make the choice to invite Him into your life and ask for His blessings. This is what Jabez did. He is, today, an example of how God wants us to trust Him through passionate cry in our moments of desperation.

Jabez teaches that we can outrightly depend on God for any needed change. God is more willing and able to help and bless us than we are ever willing and able to receive the blessing. He simply wants us to approach Him through effectual fervent prayer for any area or need of life.

Quote for the Day: “No one can stand out by maintaining the status quo. Greatest, safest and surest spiritual break you can experience in your life happens when you personally encounter God, not by invocation.” (Simon Olatunji)

Prayer:  Dear Lord, it’s only you that brings increase and causes a change. I call on You today, O Lord, please turn my life and situation around, and make me a marked blessing to my generation — in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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[Daily Scripture Threshing is a devotional guide of The House of Prayer Evangel Church USA distributed for free use by individuals, small groups, families, and Christian churches]

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