The prayer of Jabez

The Prayer of Jabez in the Bible is a powerful prayer that can change your life. This prayer is a beautiful reminder of God’s desire to bless and expand our lives. Jabez was a man who understood the importance of asking for God’s favor. He approached God with a bold heart, saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed.”

What’s incredible about the story of Jabez in the Bible is that he didn’t hold back. He asked God to enlarge his territory and to keep His hand upon him. Jabez knew that with God’s presence, he would be protected and guided in every area of his life. This is a prayer of faith that believes in God’s goodness and His willingness to pour out blessings.

Jabez prayer in the Bible verse

1 Chronicles 4:9-10

9. Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother named him Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.”

10. Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying:

“Oh, that You would bless me indeed,

and enlarge my territory,

that Your hand would be with me,

and that You would keep me from evil,

that I may not cause pain!”

So God granted him what he requested.

Also read: 40 powerful prayer points 

Who was Jabez in the Bible

Jabez appears in the Bible in a brief yet powerful mention in 1 Chronicles 4:9-10. Described as “more honorable than his brothers,” Jabez prayed a prayer that became famous for its boldness and directness, known as the “Prayer of Jabez.” In his prayer, he asked God to “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.” God answered his prayer, granting him the blessing he sought.

Interestingly, the name Jabez itself means “pain” or “sorrow,” likely given to him due to his mother’s difficult childbirth. Yet Jabez rose above his challenging beginnings, asking God not only to prosper him but also to protect him from further sorrow. This prayer, though brief, became a model of faith, trust, and boldness, as Jabez sought God’s favor and blessing despite humble beginnings.

Why was Jabez prayer so powerful

• Boldness in Request: Jabez approaches God with a bold and specific request for blessing, territory, divine presence, and protection from evil. His willingness to ask for more shows a deep faith in God’s ability to provide abundantly.
• Alignment with God’s Will: Jabez’s prayer reflects a heart aligned with God’s purposes. He seeks not only personal gain but also a life that honors God and avoids causing pain to others. This selflessness in his request resonates with God’s desire for His people to live in a way that brings glory to Him.
• Recognition of God’s Sovereignty: By calling on the God of Israel, Jabez acknowledges God’s ultimate authority and power. This recognition emphasizes the belief that true blessing and protection come from God alone.
• Personal Transformation: Jabez was named “sorrow” because of the pain his mother experienced during childbirth. His prayer signifies a desire for transformation—from a name associated with pain to a life marked by blessing and honor. This transformative aspect resonates with many who seek a change in their circumstances.
• Divine Response: The fact that God granted Jabez’s request underscores the effectiveness of sincere prayer. It serves as a reminder that God listens to and responds to those who earnestly seek Him, providing assurance and encouragement for others to approach Him in prayer.

Prayer of Jabez 30 day challenge

Days 1-7: Blessing 

Prayer Focus: Ask for God’s blessing in every area of your life.

Jabez prayer points 

1. Day 1: “Oh, that You would bless me indeed.”
2. Day 2: “Bless me in my relationships.”
3. Day 3: “Bless me in my work.”
4. Day 4: “Bless me spiritually and help me grow closer to You.”
5. Day 5: “Bless my family and friends.”
6. Day 6: “Bless my finances and provide for my needs.”
7. Day 7: “Thank You for the blessings You have already given me.”

Days 8-14: Influence 

Prayer Focus: Pray for increased influence and opportunities to make a positive impact.

Jabez prayer points 

8. Day 8: “Enlarge my territory.”
9. Day 9: “Help me to reach others for You.”
10. Day 10: “Give me the courage to step into new opportunities.”
11. Day 11: “Guide my influence in my community.”
12. Day 12: “Help me to share Your love with others.”
13. Day 13: “Open doors for my ministry.”
14. Day 14: “Thank You for the influence I have in my sphere.”

Days 15-21: Protection 

Prayer Focus: Ask for God’s hand of protection over you and your loved ones.

Jabez prayer points 

15. Day 15: “That Your hand would be with me.”
16. Day 16: “Protect me from harm and danger.”
17. Day 17: “Watch over my family and friends.”
18. Day 18: “Help me to rely on Your strength.”
19. Day 19: “Keep me safe in my travels.”
20. Day 20: “Guide my steps to avoid temptation.”
21. Day 21: “Thank You for Your constant protection.”

Days 22-28: Guidance and Deliverance 

Prayer Focus: Pray to keep away from temptation and to walk in His purpose.

Jabez prayer points 

22. Day 22: “That You would keep me from evil.”
23. Day 23: “Deliver me from negative influences.”
24. Day 24: “Help me to resist temptation.”
25. Day 25: “Guide my decisions in accordance with Your will.”
26. Day 26: “Help me to follow the path You have for me.”
27. Day 27: “Protect me from discouragement and doubt.”
28. Day 28: “Thank You for guiding me in my life.”

Days 29-30: Thanksgiving 

Prayer Focus: Reflect and give thanks for God’s work throughout the month.

Jabez prayer points 

29. Day 29: “Thank You for hearing my prayers.”
30. Day 30: “Thank You for granting my requests.”

What are the three powerful lessons of the prayer of Jabez?

Here are 3 powerful lessons from Jabez in the Bible.

1. Don’t Let Your Past Define Your Future
Jabez was born into hardship; his name meant “pain.” But he didn’t let his past or his name determine his destiny. You might have gone through some difficult times; maybe you’ve had setbacks or people who tried to define you by your struggles. But friend, God is saying, “Don’t let that limit you. I have a new name, a new blessing, and a new future waiting for you.” Like Jabez, choose to rise above the labels and setbacks and let God write the next chapter of your story.

2. Be Bold Enough to Ask for More
Jabez didn’t just pray a simple prayer; he asked God to “bless me indeed and enlarge my territory.” He wasn’t afraid to dream big, to ask for more, and to believe that God could do incredible things in his life. Maybe today, you’re settling for what seems possible. But God says, “I am the God of the impossible. I am the God who can do exceedingly, abundantly above all you can ask or think!” Don’t limit your prayers to what seems realistic—step out in faith and believe for more.

3. Trust God to Keep His Hand on Your Life
Jabez asked God to “let Your hand be with me, and keep me from harm.”* He recognized that, even as he was asking for increase, he needed God’s protection, guidance, and strength every step of the way. When you invite God into your journey, He will lead you, guide you, and protect you. No challenge is too big, and no obstacle is too great, because God’s hand is on your life.

Friend, when you follow these principles, you’ll see God take you places you never dreamed of. Like Jabez, dare to pray bold prayers, believe for more, and trust God to keep His hand on you. He has blessings, opportunities, and a future beyond your wildest imagination.