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1 Chronicles 4 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
I also find the mentioning of Jabez to be fascinating in this long list of names. His name meant “pain.” More specifically though, it was translated “he causes pain” which was most likely given to him as a result of how painful the labor was for his mother. In many ways, this label would stick with him into adulthood because this is one of his requests from the Lord. His final statement is that he would not cause others pain.
“Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!” And God granted what he asked.”
1 Chronicles 4:10 ESV
I know that it’s only a name, but it’s true we all begin life with some kind of obstacle. Because of sin, we struggle with all sorts of labels. The heart of Jabez was that his circumstances (that were even out of his control) would not affect his purpose and his calling. Through the Lord, there is power to change all situations. There is nothing about you that is unchangeable by the grace of Jesus.
It’s simply a matter of coming to him in faith and requesting that we are used for his glory. This is the request of Jabez, and it should be the request of us each and every day.