Have you ever wondered if those who are born into painful situations, or are currently in one, are more susceptible to God’s blessings?
There’s an interesting little prayer that’s tucked away in the opening chapters of 1 Chronicles that just may answer our question. This simple prayer was prayed by a man whose very name means “sorrow”. His name is, Jabez. Other than his name meaning sorrow, and that he was honorable, we really don’t know much about him. However, I want to share some of the little we do know because I believe the implications are profound.
“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, saying: “Oh that You would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory! Let Your hand be with me, and keep me from the evil one.” And God granted his request.” 1 Chronicles 4:9-10
It’s interesting that there are only three facts given to us about Jabez. He was honorable, he was born into pain, and he prayed a simple prayer. Yet here we are, reading how the Lord granted his request. It doesn’t tell us what Jabez did that caused him to be found “honorable”, we only know that he was in pain, he cried out for God to bless him, and God granted his request. Amazing!
There’s a beautiful scripture in the book of Matthew that comes straight from the mouth of Jesus that sums up so well the story of Jabez;
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NLT
What makes Jesus so willing to help the hurting with little to no effort on their part? And, are there any other examples of this behavior that we can find in the Bible? There was the woman with the issue of blood, she didn’t have to ask to be healed, she just touched the edge of his clothes and was instantly granted her healing.
Zacchaeus had inner turmoil, and without saying a word, was given the rare opportunity to have Jesus come to his house for dinner. After Zacchaeus promised to right his wrongs, Jesus calls him, “a true son of Abraham”.
The woman caught in adultery never asked Jesus for forgiveness, yet it was granted to her. The list goes on, and it makes sense that it does, because…
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalms 34:18
Is this you? Are you hurting? Do you feel forgotten? Does your spirit feel crushed within you? You are not alone, and you are definitely not forgotten. Jesus is as close as to you as just mentioning His name. Try it, say his name and call to him. Your healing may not be instant, but He will come just as soon as you ask, and He will start to heal your broken heart just as soon as you allow Him to. I promise you! Better yet, His Word promises you.
Mark Showalter's Blog 