Staying on the Right Path

“And that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain.” – 1 Chronicles 4:10

Jabez’s name meant “pain.” His mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.” Can you imagine naming your child “Pain”? Every time someone called his name, it must have been a reminder of sorrow, grief, or hardship. It could have been because his mother experienced a great deal of pain in childbirth. More than likely, that’s what happened.

When I read this part of Jabez's prayer (“Keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain”), I hear him saying, “Lord, protect me from myself. Protect me from my weaknesses. Protect me from my sinful proclivities. Protect me from those moments of temptation that are before me.” Life is full of slippery places, and without God’s help, it’s easy to fall. Jabez was asking for God’s protection, and this is what we also need.

1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape.”

Jabez didn’t just want to avoid evil; he prayed that he wouldn’t cause pain. His prayer was humble and faith-filled. He didn’t want to dishonor God or hurt others. He prayed, “Lord, help me stay on the straight and narrow. May I not dishonor You with my life? May I live for You. May You be first place in my life.”
We should ask God for protection daily - not only for ourselves but for the sake of those around us. Like Jabez, we should pray for God to guard our hearts and keep us from evil.

Reflection Question: Are you asking God to protect you from temptation and help you live a life that glorifies Him?

“Dear God, I pray that You would keep me from evil. Protect me from temptation and guard my heart and mind. Help me to live a life that honors You and blesses others. May my actions reflect Your love and bring healing instead of harm. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”