The Cry of Jabez

*Divine Online Daily Devotional.*

*By Love Church Nigeria.*

*Date : Friday 25th July, 2025.*

*Topic : The Cry of Jabez.*

*Text : 1 Chronicles 4:9–10 (KJV)- “And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. 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.”*

*-----Inspirational Message-----*

The story of Jabez is found in the middle of genealogies, yet his short but powerful prayer caught God’s attention and left a timeless message of hope and restoration. Jabez’s cry was not ordinary; it was a heartfelt plea that changed his destiny forever. This devotional today, will explore "The Cry of Jabez", as a cry of faith, desperation, and divine expectation.

*1. The Meaning Behind the Name – Pain to Purpose.*

“…his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow.” (1 Chronicles 4:9b). Jabez's name means “sorrow” or “pain”. Despite being labeled by his past, he cried out to God for a new future. Many people are limited by labels, names, background, or circumstances. God can turn your pain into purpose. Every one believing God to turn their pain to purpose, it will manifest today, in the name of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 61:3b – “…to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning…”

*2. The Cry for Blessing – “Bless Me Indeed”*

“Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed…” (1 Chronicles 4:10a). Jabez desired the blessing of God, not just material wealth, but divine favor. “Indeed” suggests abundant, undeniable, overflowing blessing. This is the same kind of blessing Abraham received, one that could not be hidden. I pray for you reading this devotional, that blessing that could not be hidden is coming your way in Jesus Mighty Name. In Proverbs 10:22 – “The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” Also, in Ephesians 1:3– “Blessed be the God, and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.”

*3. The Cry for Enlargement – “Enlarge My Coast”.*

“…and enlarge my coast…” (1 Chronicles 4:10). Jabez asked for increase in territory, influence, opportunities, capacity, and many others. He wanted to move beyond limitations. God delights in expanding those who walk in faith and obedience. I pray your extension will manifest now in Jesus Mighty Name. Isaiah 54:2-3, - “Enlarge the place of thy tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitations: spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; For thou shalt break forth on the right hand and on the left; and thy seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and make the desolate cities to be inhabited.” Also, Deuteronomy 19:8a – “And if the LORD thy God enlarge thy coast…”

*4. The Cry for God’s Presence – “That Thy Hand Might Be With Me”.*

“…and that thine hand might be with me…” (1 Chronicles 4:10). The “hand of God” represents His presence, power, protection, and provision. Jabez knew that expansion without God is emptiness, he had to cry for God’s hand to be with him. Like Moses, he desired the divine companionship of God. Exodus 33:15 – “If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.” Acts 11:21a – “And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed…”

*5. The Cry for Protection – “Keep Me From Evil”.*

“…and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me!” (1 Chronicles 4:10). Jabez understood that spiritual warfare is real. He had to ask God not only for blessing but also for protection from evil and sorrow. He didn’t want to be a source of pain to others or live in grief. In Matthew 6:13a – “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil…”, Also in, Psalm 121:7 – “The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.”

*6. The Result – Answered Prayer.*

“…And God granted him that which he requested.” (1 Chronicles 4:10). God honors prayers that are heartfelt, sincere, and aligned with His will. Jabez’s cry became a model of spiritual hunger and bold faith. Jeremiah 33:3a – “Call unto me, and I will answer thee…”bJames 5:16 – “…The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”

*Conclusion.*

The cry of Jabez is a timeless reminder that no matter your past or present limitations, God hears and answers prayer. He can bless, enlarge, guide, and protect you, just like He did for Jabez. Don’t be afraid to cry out to God in Faith!

*Prayer Points.*

1. Oh Lord, bless me indeed and make me a blessing!

2. Father, enlarge my coast and increase my influence for Your glory.

3. Let Your hand be upon me to guide and sustain me.

4. Keep me from evil and deliver me from every sorrow and grief.

5. Lord, change every negative label in my life and give me a new identity in Christ in Jesus Mighty Name. Amen

God Bless You.