OH GOD, BLESS ME INDEED
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10
Key Verse:
"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." — 1 Chronicles 4:10 (KJV)
Supporting Texts: Numbers 6:24-26; Deuteronomy 28:1-13; Psalm 115:14; Malachi 3:10; Ephesians 1:3
INTRODUCTION:
The prayer of Jabez is one of the most concise yet powerful prayers recorded in Scripture. Jabez’s boldness in approaching God demonstrates that believers can petition for blessing, enlargement, divine guidance, and protection.
Many believers limit their prayers to minor requests or daily needs, yet Jabez teaches us that it is appropriate to pray for exponential increase, spiritual expansion, and divine covering. Such faith-filled prayers position a believer for supernatural intervention and remarkable progress.
This message challenges us to step into audacious faith, praying boldly: “Oh God, bless me indeed,” while trusting that God will honour your petitions and manifest His favour in ways that transform your life.
1. ASKING GOD FOR BLESSING
To ask God for blessing is an act of faith that acknowledges His sovereignty. Boldly requesting His favour demonstrates trust in His ability to provide beyond human expectation.
a) Bless me indeed (1 Chronicles 4:10)
Jabez asked God to bless him truly and abundantly. This type of blessing covers all areas of life, including health, relationships, finances, and spiritual growth.
b) Confidence in prayer (Hebrews 4:16)
Approach God with boldness, knowing He hears the prayers of those who trust in His promises. Boldness positions your petitions for immediate response.
c) Alignment with God’s will (Ephesians 3:20)
The blessing we ask must align with God’s divine plan. When we pray within His will, God responds with abundance that exceeds imagination.
d) Faith activates blessing (Mark 11:24)
Believing that God will answer is essential; doubt hinders the manifestation of God’s favour. True blessing flows to those who expect God to act.
Biblical Example:
Jabez prayed boldly, and God granted his request, blessing him indeed (1 Chronicles 4:9-10).
2. PRAYING FOR EXPANSION
Blessing without growth is incomplete. Expansion demonstrates God’s favour and opens new opportunities for influence, provision, and spiritual maturity.
a) Enlarge my coast (1 Chronicles 4:10)
Jabez prayed for enlargement of his territory, signifying expansion in influence, resources, and opportunities.
b) Spiritual and personal growth (Proverbs 4:18)
God’s expansion brings personal growth, spiritual maturity, and the ability to impact others positively.
c) Stewardship of increase (Luke 16:10-12)
Blessings must be handled responsibly. God entrusts increase to those who manage it wisely and faithfully.
d) Influence for God’s glory (Matthew 5:14-16)
Expansion is not only personal; it is a platform for God’s glory. As you grow, your life becomes a beacon for others to experience God’s goodness.
Biblical Example:
Solomon received wisdom and prosperity from God, which allowed him to expand Israel’s influence and establish lasting legacy (1 Kings 3:10-14).
3. INVITING GOD’S PRESENCE AND PROTECTION
Jabez recognized that blessing alone is insufficient without God’s presence and protection. The hand of God ensures guidance, favour, and divine defence.
a) Let thy hand be with me (1 Chronicles 4:10)
God’s presence in your life ensures success, guidance, and protection in all undertakings.
b) Protection from evil (Psalm 91:1-7)
Praying for God’s hand includes divine shielding from spiritual, emotional, and physical attacks.
c) Sustained peace and joy (Philippians 4:7)
God’s presence guarantees stability, confidence, and contentment even amid challenges.
d) Divine strategy against opposition (Isaiah 54:17)
When God’s hand is with you, no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Divine wisdom and protection accompany your steps.
Biblical Example:
Nehemiah prayed for guidance and protection while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls. Despite opposition, God ensured success (Nehemiah 2:4-8; 6:15-16).
4. LIVING A LIFE THAT ATTRACTS BLESSING
Receiving God’s blessing also requires obedience, humility, and faithfulness. Blessings are maximized when aligned with God’s principles and purpose.
a) Walk in obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Obedience to God attracts blessing. Following His commandments positions you to receive His promises fully.
b) Faithfulness in small things (Luke 16:10)
God multiplies blessings for those who are faithful with little responsibilities. Trust in His timing for increase.
c) Maintain humility (James 4:6)
Humility opens the heart to God’s favour, allowing Him to work powerfully through your life.
d) Pursue God continually (Psalm 105:4)
Seeking God daily and prioritizing His will draws His blessings, protection, and divine guidance consistently.
Biblical Example:
Joseph lived a life of integrity, faithfulness, and obedience. Despite trials, God elevated him to a position of authority, blessing him abundantly (Genesis 39:2-6; 41:41-44).
CONCLUSION:
Believers are encouraged to pray boldly, following Jabez’s example: ask for blessing, expansion, God’s presence, and protection. God honours faith-filled prayers, rewarding those who trust Him to act on their behalf.
As you live a life of obedience, humility, and consistent pursuit of God, expect your requests to be answered. Pray daily, align with His will, and anticipate supernatural breakthroughs that will position you for honour, influence, and lasting impact.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, bless me indeed in every area of my life.
2. Lord, expand my territory, influence, and opportunities.
3. Father, let Your hand be upon me to guide and protect me.
4. Lord, keep me from every evil scheme and attack.
5. Father, grant me wisdom to steward all blessings responsibly.
6. Lord, let Your favour go before me in every sphere of life.
7. Father, multiply my resources and increase my spiritual and material impact.
8. Lord, surround me with divine protection and guidance at all times.
9. Father, let every blessing I receive glorify Your name and serve Your purpose.
10. Lord, sustain my joy, peace, and confidence through Your presence.
