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

The prayer of Jabez encapsulates the power and beauty of a short prayer that God honored. Jabez began by calling on God to bless him. Surely we need the blessings of God on our lives, for without Him we are lost and in despair. It is God that gives us breath and every good gift. How much better to look to God for our help and strength than to place trust in our own ability or those around us. Others may fail but God is a constant, for He changes not.

Enlarge my coast, Lord. Help me to grow spiritually. Give me the strength and grace to gain more spiritual ground. Bestow upon my life the power to conquer the giants before me. Bring down the walls of the fortified places in my life. Expand my spiritual influence that I might share your gospel with people beyond my borders.

Lord, would you place your hand on my life? I cannot make it by myself. I humble myself before your throne and earnestly ask for you to extend your mercy. I need your guidance and direction. I need wisdom and inspiration. I am desperate for your anointing and your approval.

Father, keep me from evil that it might not destroy me. Help me to be sensitive to your Spirit. I have no righteousness of my own and I need you to open my blinded eyes that I might see. Show me the snares of the enemy. Keep me from the love of this world and from the deception of false religion. Your way is the only way that leads to Heaven, and I ask you to keep me safe and protect my soul that I might not sin against you.

God heard the prayer, and in simplicity, “God granted him that which he requested.” So God will do for us today, thank the Lord! Be of good courage, my fellow child of God, and let us pray on! ■