Enlarge My Territory, Oh Lord! (Prayer Of Jabez) Series

ENLARGE MY TERRITORY, OH LORD!

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

"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."

Supporting Texts: Genesis 13:14-15, Isaiah 54:2-3, Matthew 25:14-30, Ephesians 3:20, Joshua 1:3

INTRODUCTION

The story of Jabez is a testimony of transformation through prayer. Born into pain and sorrow, he refused to accept a life of limitation. Instead, he cried out to God with boldness, asking not only for blessings but also for an enlargement of his territory. This was not a selfish prayer but a recognition that he needed divine expansion to fulfil his destiny.

Many believers today live within limited boundaries—spiritually, financially, professionally, and in ministry—because they have not asked God to enlarge their capacity. Expansion is a kingdom principle, and throughout the Bible, God calls His people to grow, take new territories, and reach new heights.

When we pray for God to enlarge our territory, we are asking Him to stretch our faith, increase our impact, and move us beyond our current limitations. This sermon will explore what it means to have our territory enlarged and how we can position ourselves for divine expansion.

1. THE MEANING OF ENLARGED TERRITORY

Jabez’s request for an enlarged territory signifies a desire for greater influence, responsibility, and capacity.

a) Expansion in Spiritual Authority (Luke 10:19)

Enlargement means walking in greater authority over challenges and spiritual battles.

b) Growth in Personal Capacity (Isaiah 54:2-3)

Just as a tent must be stretched to hold more, God stretches us to handle greater blessings.

c) Increase in Kingdom Impact (Matthew 28:19-20)

Enlarging our territory includes reaching more souls and making a greater impact for God’s kingdom.

d) Breaking Free from Limitations (Genesis 13:14-15)

Like Abraham, we must see beyond where we are and believe God for greater things.

e) Biblical Example: God expanded the influence of Joseph from the prison to the palace, making him a ruler in Egypt (Genesis 41:39-44).

2. REQUIREMENTS FOR TERRITORIAL ENLARGEMENT

God’s expansion comes with responsibilities, and we must be prepared for it.

a) Faith and Vision (Habakkuk 2:2-3)

You cannot expand beyond what you believe and see in faith.

b) Diligence and Excellence (Proverbs 22:29)

Enlarged territory requires diligence, skill, and a commitment to excellence.

c) Willingness to Take Risks (Matthew 14:29)

Peter had to step out of the boat before he could experience walking on water.

d) Spiritual Maturity and Obedience (Isaiah 1:19)

God enlarges those who are mature and obedient to His instructions.

e) Biblical Example: Joshua took bold steps of faith and obedience, leading Israel into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:3-5).

3. HINDRANCES TO TERRITORIAL ENLARGEMENT

Not everyone experiences divine expansion because of certain limitations.

a) Fear and Doubt (Numbers 13:31-33)

The Israelites failed to enter Canaan because of fear of the giants.

b) Lack of Preparation (Luke 12:47-48)

God cannot enlarge a person who is unprepared for responsibility.

c) Comfort Zone Mentality (Deuteronomy 1:6-8)

Staying in a place of convenience can limit divine growth.

d) Disobedience and Sin (Isaiah 59:1-2)

Disobedience can close doors of enlargement.

e) Biblical Example: The rich young ruler refused to follow Jesus because he was unwilling to leave his comfort zone (Matthew 19:21-22).

4. STEPS TO EXPERIENCING DIVINE EXPANSION

How can we pray and position ourselves for an enlargement of our territory?

a) Pray Boldly for Expansion (1 Chronicles 4:10)

Jabez asked God for an enlargement, and God granted his request.

b) Develop Capacity for Growth (Luke 16:10)

Faithfulness in small things qualifies you for greater expansion.

c) Walk in Obedience and Alignment (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)

When you obey God, He expands your influence and territory.

d) Step Out in Faith (2 Kings 7:4-8)

God enlarges those who take bold steps beyond their limitations.

e) Biblical Example: Peter and the early disciples expanded the church through faith, boldness, and obedience (Acts 2:41-47).

5. LIVING IN A CONTINUOUSLY ENLARGED TERRITORY

Expansion is not a one-time event but a continuous process in God’s kingdom.

a) Maintain a Lifestyle of Faith (Hebrews 11:6)

Faith is the foundation for continuous growth in God.

b) Remain Connected to God (John 15:5)

The secret to sustained enlargement is abiding in God’s presence.

c) Keep a Heart of Gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Thanksgiving secures and increases God’s blessings.

d) Continue to Sow Seeds (2 Corinthians 9:6-10)

Expansion comes to those who sow generously in service, giving, and prayer.

e) Biblical Example: David continued to expand his kingdom because he remained in God’s presence (2 Samuel 5:10).

CONCLUSION

Jabez understood that life should not remain stagnant. He desired more, prayed for more, and received more. God is willing to enlarge our spiritual, financial, ministerial, and personal territories, but we must prepare for it and ask in faith.