‭I Chronicles‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬ 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.

Much attention has been given to the first part of Jabez’s prayer, but the end of it is perhaps the more unexpected part. After Jabez petitions the Lord for more land and wealth, it’s as though he understands the power that comes along with that and chooses to ask for spiritual boundaries. He wants to continue to honor God, probably for two reasons: so as not to hurt himself or others. 

 As we petition God for that new degree or career, or better vehicle, or more wealth or children, or a spouse, or any increase, we should also pray that with that increase we honor God. As we keep Him first, we keep ourselves from messing up our increase, and we continue to attract others to the God of our increase by demonstrating His love to them. So, pray for and receive your enlarged territory, as well as for continuing to prioritize God and heeding to His guidance.