In 1 Chron 4:9-10, we meet a wonderful character named Jabez.  Today we are going to learn five things about his life.  First, Jabez was more honorable than all his brothers.  Even though his mother went through a great deal of pain having him.  Secondly, he was a man of prayer for he cried out to the Lord.  Thirdly, He wanted to have the Lord bless him and enlarge his territory.  Influence was important to Jabez.  Fourthly, He wanted the Lord’s hand upon his life.  A great prayer for all of us.  Lastly he wanted the Lord to keep him from harm and pain.  He did not want to have pain in his life but he also did not want to cause any pain.  The marvelous thing is that this passage ends with the powerul statement.  God granted his request.  God hears people that keep their lives very simple.  Any sincere diligent seeker will be given and audience by God and He will do what they want.  The Psalmist writes, "A broken and contrite heart will be heard."  Your promises today are Rom 10:17, Matt 21:21, Eph 2:8 and Heb 11:1 & 6.  The Insightful thoughts are today:  Onions are a curious vegetable.  It can make you cry or season your life,  Agitation of a good friend is like holding a snake by the tongue.  It will sting for a long time.