Lesson 320: 1 Chronicles 4:10
1 Chronicles 4:10
The Blueprint — The Verse
Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
The genealogy of Judah in Chronicles interrupts lineage with Jabez's prayer, suggesting his story was remembered because of bold faith. In post-exilic Israel, Chronicles encouraged hope that earnest prayer before the God of Israel could reshape a family's future.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Amid lists of descendants, Jabez stands out as more honorable than his brothers. His name recalled pain, yet he prayed for blessing, expanded influence, God's hand, and protection from harm. The narrative notes simply that God granted what he asked.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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1 Chronicles 4:9
9Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.”
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (1 Chronicles 4:9) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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1 Chronicles 4:11
11Kelub, Shuhah’s brother, was the father of Mehir, who was the father of Eshton.
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (1 Chronicles 4:11) to continue the passage.
Discussion
- Is it right to pray boldly for blessing and influence?
- How does God respond to honest prayers rooted in dependence?
- What pain in your past might become a place of faithful petition?