Lord, I Need Your Help

“That Your hand would be with me…” – 1 Chronicles 4:10

One of the most important parts of Jabez’s prayer was his request for God’s hand to be with him. This wasn’t just a sentimental phrase or a casual request. It was a plea for God’s anointing, guidance, and power. He knew that without God’s presence, all his efforts would be in vain. Jabez wasn’t asking to accomplish great things on his own. He was asking for God to go with him every step of the way.

This reminds me of Isaiah 41:10, where God says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” When we ask for God’s hand to be with us, we’re asking for His strength and guidance in everything we do. Jabez recognized his total dependence on God’s power.

Elisha prayed a similar prayer when he asked Elijah for a double portion of his spirit (2 Kings 2:9). Elisha wasn’t content to merely follow in his mentor’s footsteps. He wanted to be used by God in an even greater way. And God answered his request. Twice as many miracles are recorded in the ministry of Elisha compared to Elijah (2 Kings 2:9-14). This shows us that God is willing to empower those who ask for His anointing.

I think about how often we try to do things in our own strength. Whether it’s in our work, our families, or our ministries, we sometimes forget to ask for God’s hand to guide us. But the truth is, if we’re going to accomplish anything of eternal value, we need God’s presence and power. Jabez understood this, which is why he prayed, “That Your hand would be with me.”

There’s a story about a boy who was trying to move a large rock in his backyard. He pushed and pushed, but the rock wouldn’t budge. His father, watching from the porch, asked, “Are you using all your strength?” The boy replied, “Yes!” The father smiled and said, “No, you’re not. You haven’t asked me for help.” How often do we struggle with life’s challenges without asking for God’s help?

When we pray for God’s hand to be with us, we are inviting Him to work through us. We’re acknowledging that we can’t do it on our own. Jabez’s prayer reminds us that God’s hand is available to guide and strengthen us if we will simply ask.

Reflection Question: Are you relying on God’s hand to guide and empower you, or are you trying to do things in your own strength?

“Dear God, I recognize that I cannot accomplish anything of eternal value without You. I pray that Your hand would be with me. Guide me, strengthen me, and empower me to do the work You’ve called me to do. Help me to depend on You every step of the way. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”