The Prayer of Jabez.

"Jabez was more honored than his brothers. His mother named him Jabez and said, “I gave birth to him in pain.” Jabez called out to the God of Israel: “If only you would bless me, extend my border, let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm, so that I will not experience pain.” And God granted his request."  1st Chronicles 4.

The Lord included this very brief story about Jabez for good reasons.

(1)  It illustrates the Lord's good nature. The Lord didn't gripe, criticize, or fuss at Jabez for asking for His blessing. God isn't that type of Person. But if we were raised by a miserable malcontent, it may be hard to believe God is good.

(2)  It shows that God can overthrow a parent's curse. Jabez' mother cursed him by naming him "Pain." God said, "I don't care what she named you", and overthrew her curse.  How many people think their life's course is set by a parent? It isn't. God can break any negative life-direction, by His favor and power. 

(3)  And it shows God accepts prayers for protection and success. It isn't Christlike to suffer more than you need to. Why make life harder for yourself? Are you sick? Ask to be healed. Are you afflicted? Ask God to lift the affliction. Are you scared? Ask God to be your shield. It isn't Christian to suffer needlessly. 

Do you want to ask God to make you a success? As long as you put His kingdom first in your heart, then ask Him for success all the day long.