Welcome to Faith Connections Friday!
Have you ever read the stories in the Bible and wondered why God chose certain people for certain purposes? The Bible is full of stories of God choosing ordinary people living ordinary lives to be His followers. Yet, He chose them to perform extraordinary tasks. He obviously saw potential in them to fulfill His purpose.
One of my favorite people in the Bible is Jabez. He is not well-known. In fact, you may miss his story entirely. His story is only two verses in the Old Testament. The description and testimony of his life are in 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.
Apparently, his mother had such a difficult labor when Jabez was born that his name is an everlasting reminder of that pain. The Scripture also describes Jabez as honorable, a person of great integrity and character (1 Chronicles 4:9). He boldly asks God to bless him with specific requests (1 Chronicles 4:10). He asks for the blessing of more territory or borders, possibly an expanded sphere of influence. Jabez asks God to bless him with His presence and protection from harm. Why? He desires a legacy of blessing. A blessing for his family and others. A blessing for us, his expanded sphere of influence. What happens? That bold prayer pleases God, and God indeed blesses Jabez with the desires of his heart.
As you can see, the influence of Jabez is profound. He is bold and inspiring. He is a true blessing. How does the example of Jabez impact you?
Connections Challenge: Every person with whom we come in contact makes an impact upon us. Sometimes painful. Sometimes blessed. Sometimes a mixture of both. First, can others say that you are a person of honor, integrity, and character? If so, the challenge is boldly praying the prayer of Jabez. Your life can have an extraordinary impact on your family, others, and future generations. God can make an ordinary life extraordinary. Be a blessing.
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