2003 making up the title response
2003 to make up the content response
(1 Chronicles 4:9-10)
As we approach the first week of the new year, I would like to introduce one important prayer that we should keep in our hearts throughout the year.
Today's text speaks of Jabez being more honorable than his brother. It should be noted that Jabez was not a noble person from birth. The word 'Jabez' means 'pain'. How unhappy and painful his childhood was. His parents named him 'Pain'. But the Bible tells us that this man's life has changed. It was because of the brief prayers he offered throughout his life.
And the content of this prayer that changed Jabez's life is said in the following four ways.
First, God bless me.
Jabez prayed, 'Blessings were added to blessings' throughout his life. And finally, God blesses him. And that blessing is 'God's amazing grace that gives us things that humans cannot achieve', regardless of actions or thoughts.
Second, broaden my boundaries.
'Border' refers to the boundary of the land, that is, the boundary that can exert nutritive power. And Jabez prayed, "Expand my reach for the glory of God!" And God answered that prayer.
Third, help me.
The prayer to help me is to rely on God. Even if our business expands and our position increases, if we do not have a heart to depend on God, these become burdens. So we should pray, "Father God! Help me! I depend on you."
Fourth, let us be free from tribulation and have no worries.
Jabez prayed, "Deliver me from trouble!" And Satan attacks those who have received much blessing from God and who have grown spiritually. So Jabez prayed for the source.
And finally, I prayed like this, and God allowed me to ask for it.
Folks, God hears our prayers. Our fate can change. "God bless me. Expand my boundaries."
As we prayed this prayer throughout the year 2003, I hope that on the last Sunday of 2003, we will all share our testimonies of what God has allowed us to do.