The Blessing Of Enlargement

THE BLESSING OF ENLARGEMENT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Chronicles 4:10

Supporting Texts: Genesis 26:22, Isaiah 54:2-3, Deuteronomy 19:8, Psalm 18:36, Job 8:7

INTRODUCTION:

God is a God of enlargement. From the beginning of time, His desire for man has always been to grow, expand, and take dominion. Enlargement is not just about physical space or material prosperity; it is a spiritual mandate that reflects God’s nature in us.

In the prayer of Jabez, we see a man who refused to settle for limitation. Though his name meant sorrow, he cried out to the God of Israel for enlargement—and God granted his request. This reveals that enlargement is available to those who dare to ask and align with God’s purpose.

Many people live confined lives—spiritually, financially, emotionally, and territorially—not because God wants them small, but because they have not embraced the covenant of enlargement. This sermon explores the nature of God’s blessing of enlargement and how we can position ourselves to receive it.

1. ENLARGEMENT BEGINS WITH A DESIRE FOR MORE

Until you desire more, you may remain confined within your current limitations.

a) Desire is the seed of enlargement

Jabez called on the God of Israel because he wanted more than his present state (1 Chronicles 4:10).

b) God responds to the cry of an enlarged heart

When we open our hearts to believe for more, God stretches our boundaries (Psalm 81:10).

c) You must refuse to accept negative labels or names

Though Jabez was born in sorrow, he did not allow that to define his destiny.

d) Enlargement requires a holy dissatisfaction

Complacency is the enemy of growth (Proverbs 1:32).

Biblical Example: The sons of the prophets asked Elisha for more space because their dwelling was too small (2 Kings 6:1-2).

2. THE BLESSING OF ENLARGEMENT COMES FROM GOD ALONE

True and lasting enlargement is a product of God’s favour and hand upon a life.

a) Human efforts are limited without divine help

Jabez asked God, “That Your hand would be with me” (1 Chronicles 4:10).

b) Only God can break the barriers around your life

He opens doors no man can shut (Revelation 3:8).

c) God enlarges both territory and influence

Enlargement is not just spatial but also positional (Psalm 18:36).

d) God is pleased to increase His children

The blessing of enlargement is part of the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 17:6).

Biblical Example: Isaac experienced enlargement in the land of famine because the Lord blessed him (Genesis 26:12-13, 22).

3. ENLARGEMENT REQUIRES FAITH AND ACTION

God enlarges those who step out in faith and prepare for the increase.

a) You must prepare for what you are praying for

“Enlarge the place of your tent…” (Isaiah 54:2) implies active participation.

b) Fear of change can hinder enlargement

Fear makes people resist expansion, even when God is calling them higher (Numbers 13:31-33).

c) Your obedience determines the level of your increase

Enlargement is a reward for those who walk in God’s ways (Deuteronomy 19:8-9).

d) Stretching precedes enlargement

God will ask you to do the uncomfortable before you see increase.

Biblical Example: Peter cast his net again at Jesus’ command and caught a net-breaking increase (Luke 5:4-6).

4. ENLARGEMENT BRINGS GLORY TO GOD AND IMPACT TO OTHERS

God’s enlargement in your life is for His glory and the blessing of others.

a) Enlarged lives become channels of blessing

Jabez didn’t ask only for blessing—he wanted to be a blessing.

b) Enlargement increases your influence and responsibility

To whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:48).

c) Your enlargement should draw people to God

When people see God’s hand on your life, they glorify Him (Matthew 5:16).

d) God increases you so that you can fulfil kingdom purpose

You are enlarged for impact, not for pride.

Biblical Example: Joseph was enlarged through trials and became a source of life for Egypt and his family (Genesis 50:20).

5. PRAYER IS A KEY TO DIVINE ENLARGEMENT

The prayer of Jabez teaches us that divine enlargement is activated through earnest, faith-filled prayer.

a) God answers bold prayers of faith

Jabez “called on the God of Israel,” and God granted his request.

b) Prayer changes destiny and breaks limitations

Jabez was born with sorrow but lived with honour because he prayed.

c) You must ask specifically for enlargement

Vague prayers produce vague results—Jabez was clear in his request.

d) Persistent prayer produces breakthrough

Pray without ceasing until your borders are expanded (Luke 18:1).

Biblical Example: Hannah prayed fervently, and God enlarged her life with Samuel and more children (1 Samuel 1:10-20).

CONCLUSION:

The God we serve is not a small God. He desires that you break out of every limitation and enter into the fullness of His promises. Like Jabez, when you ask in faith and walk in obedience, God will grant your request and enlarge your territory.