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Pray for More?

Consumerism is all around us. When everyone seems unable to be satisfied with what they own, the idea of asking God for more can feel wrong. We are often warned about the dangers of endlessly chasing our desires, which only leave us wanting more. In addition, Scripture teaches us a lot about contentment and encourages us to seek God rather than blessings. But does this mean we cannot ask for more?

The prayer of Jabez, found in 1 Chronicles 4:9-10, invites us to rethink this perspective. Embedded within the genealogies, we find Jabez, whose name means “pain”, crying out to God for blessing, and God grants it. This prayer is often misinterpreted to justify greed in seeking material blessings from God. However, the context of Jabez’s life shows that his request was far from materialistic.

Jabez’s prayer certainly shouldn’t be mistaken for a promise that God will fulfil our requests as we wish, nor is it a magic formula to manipulate Him into granting our desires. Jabez was a fatherless individual who faced great odds; in the Old Testament, this meant he was a helpless outsider. His plea for increased borders was a heartfelt cry of a homeless refugee, longing for redemption and a place within God’s blessings.

Jabez’s prayer shows that it is not unbiblical to ask God to redeem our pain and seek His blessings. In faith, Jabez refused to let his circumstances or name define his destiny. When he asked for more land in those days, it meant greater responsibilities and opportunities to steward God’s blessings. This should challenge us to carefully examine our motives when seeking blessings, whether for personal gain or for God’s glory.

Carefully examine your life: How has God blessed you materially? Have you ever asked God for more material blessings? If so, how? If not, why not? As you pray, reflect on your motivation and heart posture toward God’s blessings, and ask Him how you can be a better steward of His material blessings today.