Oh Lord, Bless Me Indeed! (Prayer Of Jabez) Series

OH LORD, BLESS ME INDEED!

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: Deuteronomy 28:1-2, Psalm 5:12, Malachi 3:10, Ephesians 1:3, James 1:17

INTRODUCTION

Jabez is one of the most remarkable figures in the Bible, not because of his achievements but because of his prayer. Though his name meant sorrow, he refused to accept a life of pain and limitation. Instead, he boldly asked God for divine blessings. His prayer was specific, passionate, and full of faith, and God granted his request.

Many believers today live below their divine potential because they do not fully seek or understand God’s blessings. Some think blessings are only material, while others assume they are automatic without prayer or obedience. However, Jabez teaches us that we must desire and ask for God's blessings.

Seeking divine blessings is not about greed or selfish ambition; it is about walking in the fullness of God’s purpose. When we are blessed, we can bless others, expand God's kingdom, and live a life of impact. This sermon will explore how we can position ourselves to receive and walk in God's blessings.

1. THE DESIRE FOR DIVINE BLESSINGS

Jabez had a strong desire for God’s blessings and was not afraid to ask.

a) Recognising the Need for God’s Blessings (Psalm 67:7)

The blessings of God distinguish a believer and make life meaningful.

b) God's Blessings Are for His Children (Galatians 3:9)

As believers, we are heirs of Abraham’s blessings through faith in Christ.

c) God Wants to Bless His People (Jeremiah 29:11)

It is God’s will for His children to prosper spiritually and physically.

d) Asking for Blessings is Scriptural (Matthew 7:7-8)

God encourages us to ask, seek, and knock for His blessings.

e) Biblical Example: Solomon asked for wisdom, and God blessed him with wealth and honour as well (1 Kings 3:5-13).

2. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE BLESSED INDEED?

Jabez did not just ask for blessings; he asked for blessings indeed, meaning overflowing, undeniable, and lasting blessings.

a) Blessings Go Beyond Material Wealth (Proverbs 10:22)

The true blessing of God brings joy and peace without sorrow.

b) Spiritual Blessings Are the Greatest (Ephesians 1:3)

Divine blessings include salvation, favour, wisdom, and divine protection.

c) Generational Blessings (Genesis 22:17-18)

When God blesses, the impact extends beyond one person t future generations.

d) God's Blessings Bring Supernatural Increase (Malachi 3:10)

The blessings of God open doors that human effort cannot.

e) Biblical Example: Isaac sowed in famine and reaped a hundredfold because of God's blessing (Genesis 26:12-14).

3. POSITIONING YOURSELF FOR GOD’S BLESSINGS

To experience God's blessings, we must prepare ourselves spiritually and practically.

a) Walking in Obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)

Obedience to God’s word is the key to receiving His blessings.

b) A Lifestyle of Holiness (Psalm 84:11)

God blesses those who walk uprightly before Him.

c) Faith and Expectation (Hebrews 11:6)

Without faith, it is impossible to receive divine blessings.

d) Being a Giver (Luke 6:38)

Those who give generously are positioned for divine blessings.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham obeyed God and became the father of nations, enjoying divine blessings (Genesis 12:1-3).

4. HINDRANCES TO DIVINE BLESSINGS

Despite God’s desire to bless, some things can block His blessings in our lives.

a) Sin and Disobedience (Isaiah 59:2)

Sin separates us from God’s blessings.

b) Lack of Faith (James 1:6-7)

Doubt prevents us from receiving from God.

c) Unforgiveness and Bitterness (Matthew 6:14-15)

A heart full of unforgiveness can hinder divine blessings.

d) Laziness and Lack of Diligence (Proverbs 10:4)

God blesses the works of our hands, not idleness.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites missed out on many blessings because of their disobedience and unbelief (Numbers 14:22-23).

5. WALKING IN CONTINUOUS BLESSINGS

Jabez did not only receive blessings; he maintained them by staying connected to God.

a) Maintain a Relationship with God (John 15:5)

Staying in God’s presence ensures continual blessings.

b) Live a Life of Thanksgiving (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Gratitude opens doors for more blessings.

c) Be a Blessing to Others (Acts 20:35)

God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others.

d) Seek First the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33)

Prioritising God’s kingdom brings all other blessings.

e) Biblical Example: Job remained faithful to God despite trials, and in the end, God blessed him abundantly (Job 42:10-12).

CONCLUSION

Jabez’s prayer teaches us that we should desire and ask for God’s blessings. He did not accept the sorrowful destiny given to him but cried out to God, and God answered him. In the same way, we must pray with faith, position ourselves rightly, and walk in obedience to receive divine blessings.