A Life Rewritten By God’s Hand

Thursday, September 18

1 Chronicles 4:9-10 (NKJV)

"Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, 'Because I bore him in pain! And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, 'Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!' So God granted him what he requested."

Devotion

Jabez is a fascinating figure in the Bible. After experiencing a painful and traumatic birth, his mother named him "Jabez," which in Biblical Hebrew means "He will cause pain" (1 Chronicles 4:9). That name alone marked him with a heavy identity from birth. Interestingly, no further genealogy is listed for Jabez. This doesn't mean he had no family, but it shows the Bible's focus: not on his background, but on his prayer and faith.

Jabez wanted change. He was tired—tired of lack, tired of purposelessness, tired of living a life defined by pain, by man, and without the hand of God. He didn't choose these circumstances, they were handed to him. But instead of accepting them, Jabez went to the God of Israel and prayed with faith (1 Chronicles 4:10). God answered his prayer.

His name didn't change, and his past didn't disappear, but God's hand covered his life. Jabez went from carrying the pain of man's label to walking in the blessings of God.

Like Jabez, we may face setbacks that weren't our fault. We may carry names, labels, or wounds we didn't choose. But we can do what Jabez did: pray and ask of God in faith. As we bring our burdens to Him, may we remember—it's not our effort that transforms us, but God's hand, just as it was with Jabez.

Today's Prayer

Heavenly Father, I want to thank You for Your goodness upon my life. Despite any circumstances I have faced in the past, I know that You are good. It is for this reason that I direct my prayer to You alone, confident that You hear me. I bring to You every care and anxiety, for You told me to do so in Your Word. I lay them at the cross. Thank You for Your careful hand upon my life and working every detail for my good. I love You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Apply It Today

Make every effort to walk in peace today. Not only is this His will, but it’s only in peace that we can hear His voice clearly. By faith, cast every anxiety, fear, and troubling thought upon Jesus, for He cares for you. When contrary thoughts arise, speak what God’s Word says instead. Actively praise and worship Him. It’s in this atmosphere that the enemy must flee!

Resources
  • Find an Accountability Partner: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights the strength of support. Start by joining a Connect Group.