Your Comments
The Prayer of Jabez
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responses to:
Problems with the Prayer
of Jabez
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February 18
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From Kevin:
I just happened to come across your article
online re; The Problems with The Prayer of Jabez! Now although my time
would not allow me the opportunity of reading the whole article, the first
thing that came to mind from the title alone was...how insulting and
degrading to the Christian faith is such an attack.
All of a sudden all Christians sit front-row-center, appearing like all
false religions, empty and foolish, full of back-biting and envy and no
different than the pagans. Kind of like the denominational craze, all of
mans doing, with each one proposing to be better than the next. This is not
what Jesus taught us to be like at all.
Why is it that we so-called 'Perfect Christians' continue to bite the backs
of others, choosing to tear down, ridicule, make mockery of, etcetera,
etcetera...and make all Christians, not only look like fools, but also as
one more group of odd balls out chasing fantasies and full of wild and
outlandish expectations.
Not everyone is perfect Berit, especially you or I, nor can the conservative
or liberal, or the positive thinking preachers of today ever match up with
God's true holiness and righteousness. I don't agree with everything I read
or see either...but on that note, Jesus Himself said in Mark 9:39,40, (NIV)
"No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything
bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us." In other words...if
they are not against Him, then they must be for Him.
It is one thing as a leader for us to stand against issues that deliberately
defile scripture, Same-Sex Marriage and their underlying agendas or Bishops
and Ministers, lifting up and endorsing Homosexuality within the pulpit
etc., ... but it is yet another to shun the direct work of the Lord who has
clearly worked through the author of The Prayer of Jabez, Bruce Wilkinson,
whom I do not know by the way. Bruce like all of us cannot get everything
perfect, but once again, at least the word of Christ is being preached and
the people are being drawn to the word so that God Himself can implant to
them their role in sharing His perfect word, by means of His imperfect
messengers.
I know that I'm not perfect, Kevin.
But I want more than anything to more deeply know, serve and follow my
Lord. And that involves checking everything I read, hear and do
according to the Scriptures He has given us.
My article was not an attack on Bruce
Wilkinson. I was responding to many letters from concerned visitors who
asked me to read and advise them. I wrote the review after much prayer.
By His grace, I sought to understand what the author and publisher
together were teaching people (believers and unbelievers) around the
world concerning our Lord and His promises.
I'm not going to repeat the concerns
I shared in the article, but I would like to urge all our friends and
visitors to carefully and prayerfully consider everything they read in
light of God's Word. The following exhortation may not be very
politically correct in today's postmodern churches and dialectic groups,
but it as relevant as ever to you and I and others who long to follow
Jesus and His narrow way:
"Be
ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For
the time will come when they will not endure
sound doctrine, but according
to their own desires, because they have
itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will
turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.
But you be watchful in all things..." 2
Timothy 4:2-5
From John B:
Ran across your take on the Jabez deal -- I agree -- it's
one of many prayer formats that the Word of God gives to us -- it has it's
place along with many others.
Regarding the following sentence from your article, I
have a question for you:
"Since the prayer of Jabez
precedes the New Testament call to absolute commitment...."
I don't quite agree with the term "commitment" -- I was
saved in 1972 and have been learning over the years, so I've been at this for
awhile. Where does it say that we are to "commit our lives to Christ?" -- I
hear that quite often. To me, salvation has nothing to do with commitment --
if it did, then we would have to "work" our way to Heaven. Commitment involves
work -- salvation and eternal life has to do with belief, not commitment. What
is your opinion on that?
That's a very good question, John.
Yes, salvation is by faith in the redemption Jesus Christ bought for us
through His death on the cross.
[See
What it means to be a Christian]
Likewise, our walk with Him is by faith in His all-sufficient life and His
strength in all our weakness.
See
The Secret of Abundant Life
He has called us to a wonderful covenant
relationship with Himself, but He will not take second place in our lives. He
calls us to surrender our lives and love Him with all our hearts, which means
following His ways. And He warns us that if we walk according to our human
nature and selfish desires rather than by His Spirit, we have reason to
question whether we were actually regenerated (born again) by His Spirit.
Consider these Scriptures. They show us that we must follow God's way, but we can only do it by
His grace. We must choose to repent (turn away from our old ways) and to
follow Him -- then He enables us by His Spirit. Both our salvation and our
daily walk must be by faith.
"...work out your own salvation with
fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do
for His good pleasure."
Philippians 2:12-13
"Jesus said to him, 'You shall love the
Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.
This is the first and great commandment."
Matthew 22:37-38
“If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word;
and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with
him."
John 14:23
"...whoever does not bear
his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. For which of you, intending
to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has
enough to finish it..."
Luke 14:27-28
“If anyone desires to come after Me, let
him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to
save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find
it."
Matthew
16:24-25
"...work out your own
salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to
will and to do for His good pleasure."
Philippians 2:12-13
"...present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy,
acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be
conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind,
that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of
God.... Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good."
Romans
12:1-2, 9
"...do not present your members as instruments of
unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive
from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.
For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under
grace."
Romans 6:13-14
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for
I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Matthew 11:28-30
"I also count all things loss for the excellence of the
knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of
all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in
Him..."
Philippians 3:8-11
"Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you
completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved
blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is
faithful, who also will do it."
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
Find more Scriptures here:
Called to Total Commitment
From
Francis Egenias:
I'm from the Philippines. I'm a part-time student in an
evangelical seminary. I've been a Christian for 20 years. But I still haven't
figured out the correct theology of prayer.
Yes, the booklet suggests "name it and claim it." I agree with your comment
that it is not the words that make the prayer answered, it is God who answers
the prayer. The booklet focuses on the prayer itself, not on the God who
answered the prayer of Jabez.
Sometimes, a Korea study prayer tour is conducted by my church. I cant help
but think that it might suggest that if we Filipinos just pray like the
Koreans, then God would bless the Philippines in the same way He is blessing
South Korea now"!
Sometimes I feel that the prevailing sentiment is that the most number of
answered prayers is the mark of spirituality; or if not that, the more
"holier" a prayer sounds, the more spiritual the person is (example - remember
the 2 missionary hostages in Mindanao? people who pray for their release seem
to be less spiritual than those who prayed that the 2 won't be released so
they can still reach out to their captors!).
I'm confused. But I still pray, without ceasing. Whether He grants my prayer
or not, praise Him! I don't believe in "name it and claim it." I know that God
solely decides whether He grants a prayer or not, and He is not persuaded by
prayers in the same manner Judges are persuaded by lawyers. If He grants a
prayer, it is because He wills it and it will give Him glory, and not because
of the right choice of words.
This may sound selfish but what I like about prayer is the "peace of God that
surpasses all understanding" which God gives immediately after praying. God's
peace is the best antidote to unbelief. God's peace assures me that He heard
my prayer and I am assured that whatever His response is, it is in exercise of
His sovereign will. Either way (yes or no), praise the Lord!
It seems to me you have found the answer,
Francis. Maybe it has more to do with you relationship to God than the words
you use to talk with Him.
Your letter reminded me of some of the psalms where David or other psalmists
begin by expressing their concerns and griefs -- but end up just praising
their God and delighting in Him. I so appreciate your faith and
responsiveness!
From Linda Cooper-Smith:
In reading the book Prayer of Jabez, I did receive the message from Mr.
Wilkerson that God gives us everything we want. What I understood the author
to say is God loves us and wants to bless us. Christians need to build their
faith through prayer and study, just as we build our bodies through proper
food and exercise. God wants a personal, intimate relationship with each of
us, and he wants to bless us with gifts and his love.
God does answer our prayers. Sometimes the answer is not what we want to hear.
Sometimes it is “Yes”. Sometimes the answer is “No”. Sometimes the answer is
“Wait and listen for MY will.” As our faith builds, our eyes are opened to the
wonders and blessings that have been part of our lives all along. Maintaining
a positive, joyful attitude attracts people of like mind. God’s power and
spirit are present where 3 or 4 of his people are gathered in worship.
Perhaps you could re-read the book. Keep an open mind to the message of God’s
love for us and his desire to bless us. Surely, you do not expound that God
wants bad things for us. It is true, sometimes bad things happen, and we may
not understand why. That is when faith comes into play, and we must be
patient. Many, many times the picture becomes clearer with time and distance
from pain.
Linda, you didn't deal with my specific
concerns. Perhaps you could re-read my article. Jabez words are Biblical and
God answered his prayer. But Wilkinson and his publisher promise readers who
follow his extra-biblical formula -- whether believers or not -- more than
God tells us in His Word.
From
Al: You
would give Jesus a good laugh. Your diatribe on the prayer of Jabez is purely
intellectual jealousy, or certainly appears to be. Probably commercial based
as well. "Gee why didn't I think of that". It's pitiful.
Absolutely nowhere in the prayer or in the P.R. regarding
the prayer have I read where it is said to "say this prayer instead of
others". Your type of self-righteous indignation toward a beautiful concept
and prayer, with your academic field dressing of it's true message, puts you
in the same category as those who tried to trip Jesus with their questions.
The prayer is simply that. It's tool for communication with God. Someone has
called our attention to it, and has given us some ideas on how it may be of
benefit to our spiritual and natural lives.
I think Jesus, Moses, David, and especially Paul would have
a good howl over a glass of wine and say, " Is this guy nuts, doesn't he
realize that we'll take anything in this day and age that will bring our
people closer to the Father. Even a little obscure prayer. We're glad SOMEBODY
NOTICED, after all these years. This crossroads, guy, whats his name, whoever,
needs to stop majoring in minors, and find some practical spirituality. The
kind Jesus talks about". Then Paul would smile and say, "I think I wrote
something about
that in one of my letters, didn't I ?" To which Jesus would respond, " Yeah,
with my help."
Al, did you really read my article?
You didn't address any of my concerns. I don't believe you understood any of
my points.
From John:
Why is it when someone finds out how thing really work your
can find the time to take issue with it? I am only responding to your web site
because while deep despair I received the book Prayer of Jabez and, guess
what, it worked. I like you say jesue loves me this i know because the bible
tells me so.
My simple thought is this, all of the things that God did were simple. He said
"let there be light" and there was light. He said let the earth bring forth
cattle and grasses and if did. So why when one man who was more honorable
than is brethren prays a simple prayer and get his request honored you find
that selfish?
No, I don't, John. I appreciate both Jabez and his prayer. God obviously
heard him and responded with love and blessings.
Did you not ask for forgiveness? Did you not as a little
child belive? Did we forget that even the woman was caught in the very act of
adultery was dismissed by a simple and elegant statement. Where have your
accusers gone? Go and sin no more least some thing more terrible befall you.
Simple and to the point. The world will not change because of our veiled
attemps to condem them and point out the errors of their ways, They choose
those ways on a simple one choice at a time. I cannot tell you why I found
your web site nor can I say if we will ever meet. But this I hold true. God's
ways are simple and child like It is us the wise beyond our age folks who
could stand to look at one thing that Jesus the Son Of God Said. Verily I say
unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not
enter into the kingdom of heaven. Just a thought.
I appreciate your emphasis on the simplicity of faith and life in Christ,
John, and I agree with you. I also appreciate the Scriptures you included.
And I know that Jabez’ prayer is a Biblical prayer. But you didn’t really
answer the concerns I mentioned in the article. It is so easy for our
finite minds to think that a particular prayer or formula "works," when it
is God (not our words) Who brings the answer.
Second letter from
John: Berit, The point that you made is what
started me thinking maybe it was not the prayer of Jabez being repeated, but
the act of writing a book about it that was God's way to, in principle, answer
the authors prayer and he in over looking the simple process of acting and
sharing the prayer with others, his borders where enlarged. This is the point
that your article helped me arrive at.. Neat how when we set out to instruct
others we learn a little bit ourselves. thanks for you site.
I am glad we can encourage each other, John.
From
Terrence Clark, DMD:
I have just read your article, Problems with The Prayer of
Jabez. Just wanted to let you know I felt it was absolutely right on. It
drives at the heart of what Christianity really is, what our true relationship
with God is and what our obligation to Him in our daily lives is.
The commentary about people today wanting a “feel good god” is correct and
insightful. People buy every gadget on TV that promises better health with
only one simple exercise a day, only one daily supplement, only this or only
that, because it promises what they want and they don’t have to work for it.
It is the lottery mentality of something for nothing, of getting everything
you want without any real effort or sacrifice. Everywhere we look in the
world, people want to do as they please and avoid any consequences for their
behavior.
As a dentist, I make a living fixing what generally people could have avoided
if they would have just made a reasonable effort to take care of their teeth.
Doctors treat diseases every day that are primarily diseases of choice, caused
by people’s lifestyles. Invariably, people come in to see us, wanting us to
wave a magic wand and make all the problems they themselves have created,
simply go away. They want simple answers that don’t cost too much, cause any
pain, and can be done without any real change in their lifestyle.
Many Christians want to treat their spirit like they treat their body. They
think the Gospel should provide a simple, painless, quick formula that will
make their sinful lives OK again. Christ never taught this and His life’s
example was just the opposite.
The old cliché, “I never said it would be easy; I only said it would be worth
it”, is right on target. Christ gave His precious and perfect life for us and
all we want to give in return is a repetitive two minute prayer each day?
Mr. Kjos quotes the right scriptures, and there are many more good examples
that prove beyond any doubt, that God expects us to do our very best, to give
our all, to sacrifice whatever it takes, even our own lives if necessary, for
the Kingdom of God. This is what it means to be a true disciple of Christ.
Following the formula from the Prayer of Jabez, no offense to the good things
within it, is like buying the Abs Machine and assuming we’ll never have
another health issue again.
From
Rob: I
just read your comments about the Prayer of Jabez and thank you for your
insights. I don't fully agree with you though. I believe that if we pray the
prayer "in His will," then the answer will come. This is where I believe the
problem lays.
Perhaps some would like to see the
Scripture that supports your words, Rob:
"Now this is the confidence that we
have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the
petitions that we have asked of Him. "
1 John 5:14-15
Many believers wish to pray the Jabez for their will. If we
pray it so that our territory enlarges so only He may be glorified, then it is
in His will. I agree that many Christians try to take the shortcut in their
sanctification, and this mis-understanding of the Jabez prayer can be one of
them. Also, I agree the repetition of a prayer is wrong if it is more like
chanting. We should be never ceasing in prayer, but not chanting.
I really enjoyed your insight into noting Jesus gave us another prayer, which
emphasized praise, His will, praying for provision, and obedience.
Thank you, Rob.
Anonymous: I
don't like the prayer namely because it seems to me people want to use it for
selfish gain, but like James said, God does not hear selfish prayers.
"You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that
you may spend it
on your pleasures."
I do believe God does provide for us though, and it is his
will for Christians to prosper in everything, but the big 'Prayer of Jabez'
explosion seems more like religious nonsense. I don't mean good religion, but
the Pharisee kind of religion (if you know what I mean).
I'm not sure I know what you mean, but I
appreciate the quote from James 4:3.
God -- in His love and wisdom -- may
answer our self-focused requests, but sometimes His answers become part of
His disciplines. For example, when ancient Israel complained about their
monotonous diet during their years in the wilderness, God heard their prayer
but His answer brought pain after a short moment of pleasure:
"They did not wait for His
counsel, but lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tested God in the
desert. And He gave them their request, but sent leanness into their
soul."
Psalm
106:13-15
From
Dan Goor:
The most fundamentally flawed part of the book has to do
with a missed translation. In Chron. 1 4:9 it does not say that Jabez was more
HONORABLE than his brothers, which would mean of better character, higher
integrity, etc. what it actually say is the he was more honored than were his
brothers. This simply means that others thought more highly of him, not that
he was better.
Thank you, Dan.
From
Michael Stephens:
I would like to comment on the article about the Jabez
prayer. I believe now more than ever, we as Christians need to make a stand
and stick together. I feel that instead of pointing out negatives or what is
wrong with a particular book, we need to show and teach how to use it
properly.
I am a avid reader of the Jabez book and devotional. I have
read each numerous times and continue to read them. At first when I read the
book, I was looking for an answer to help my business and personal life to
succeed in world and my own terms. As I read the book more and was given the
devotional, I am finding the true importance in life and my Christian walk. My
business is not mine but God's and I should pray for God to bless it more and
expand it's territory so it in turn can be used as a greater witness for God
and can be used to further HIS kingdom.
I should also be thinking the same for my personal life.
What needs to be discussed about the book and the prayer is how to look past
the World's view of success and focus on God's view. How we should put our
life totally in HIS hands and not our own. How we should not let fear rule our
lives but allow GOD to work in our lives.
I hope that you are not offended by this e-mail and I hope
that you might take a second look at the book and see how to use it as a tool
to teach further dependance on GOD.
I am not offended, Michael. Instead I
appreciate your heart and your message. But please read our
article again. I think
you missed our main concern. The fact that the book includes many truths
based on the Bible doesn't excuse the extra-biblical promises made by both
the author and the publisher.
You say that "we as Christians need to
make a stand and stick together" and keep from "pointing of pointing out
negatives." Your first point is true, but the second part is not Biblical.
Yes, God wants us to encourage each other with the good things He gives and
promises us, but we must also help each other be accurate and show Biblical
integrity in our expressions. In other words, we must follow His guidelines
and not ignore His vital exhortations and warnings. He tells us to -
"Be ready in season and out of season.
Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For
the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according
to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up
for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the
truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things..."
2
Timothy 4:2-5
From
Teresa Tickner: I have read your article
on the 'net - Problems with the prayer of Jabez, and i am relieved that i have
found someone else who sees it simply for what it is, a notation of a man's
cry to God; not a method for us to pray to God, as our instructions come from
Jesus - "when ye pray, pray in this manner..."
-
praise and worship
-
supplication
-
His Will
-
our forgiveness
-
forgive others
-
ask for needs
-
praise and worship
-
thanks and faith
I ask simply for Jesus to lead me each and every day, until
i go home again. The Lord bless you.
Thank you, Teresa.
From
Hargis: Ramsay Devereux wrote about the
repetition of prayer. Does he mean to say that when we continue to pray for a
certain situation that God only wants to hear it once? And gets upset with us
if we pray more than once. Matt. 6:7 says to not use vain repetitions. God has
asked me to pray for a person and continues to remind to do so even though it
has been 18 months. I continue every day. Is this his idea of repetition?
It seems that Satan has got the Christians doing exactly
what he wants, and that is attacking one another instead of looking at
themselves. God doesn't need us to take care of Him He is quite capable of
doing that Himself. In John 21:21,22 (paraphrased comment) Peter was wondering
what was to happen to John. Jesus said in a sense be concerned about your self
and only that and follow me.
Instead of being busy doing God's will in our life, we are busy tearing down
the body of Christ for Satan. And he is laughing the whole time, saying these
people are dumber than I thought.
You ask good
questions, Hargis. No, we can repeat prayers. Jesus tells us to persist in
prayer - to ask, seek and knock - again and again -- and not lose faith or
hope. And you are wise to emphasize “vain” repetitions. That makes all the
difference. It's easy to get into a habit of mindless prayer -- just
repeating the words as a daily ritual rather than worshipping God with mind
and heart.
Keep
in mind, my concern was not prayer itself, or even the prayer that Jabez
prayed. My concern was the blanket promise and suggestions, made by
Wilkinson and his publisher, that this particular prayer would bring
particular blessing for all who prayed it. God doesn't make such
promises to anyone -- especially not to those who are following Him. Many --
from all kinds of religions -- are looking for easy answer and unconditional
blessings these days. Some of His most faithful disciples faced loneliness,
poverty and martyrdom. Their blessing is realized in heaven -- when we feast
in His presence.
And
Hagris, offering warnings in love which are based on God's Word is not
"attacking one another." Remember what He tells us in
2 Timothy 4:2
From
Renee: Have you seen all the Prayer of Jabez
"stuff" that's out there now? Besides the original book, you can now get:
--The Prayer of Jabez for Women/Teens/Kids/Young
Hearts (ages 4-7)/Little Ones (ages 2-4)
--TPoJ for Women Study Guide
--TPoJ Bible Study
--TPoJ Devotionals
--TPoJ Journal
--TPoJ Video Curriculum
--TPoJ Music CDs and tapes
--TPoJ prayer shawl, keychain, coffee mug, Bible
cover, mouse pad, framed calligraphy, lace wall
hanging, desk calendar, magnetic notepad, picture
book, t-shirt, wall cross, lapel pin, etc.... (Just
what we need--more "Jesus Junk" [or, in this case,
"Jabez Junk"])
And last but not least:
--Jabez: The Novel (advertised at the CBD website this way: "You've read the
book and prayed the prayer--now meet the man! Beginning with the nugget of
description from 1 Chronicles, Thom Lemmons penetrates the mystery surrounding
the life of Jabez in this encouraging novel. Discover who this prayer warrior
was, find out what struggles prompted him to pray for blessing, and learn what
happened next." Talk about eisegesis!)
Don't you just love how they market things to
death....
On the lighter side, Douglas Jones has written a parody of Wilkinson's book,
called The Mantra of Jabez: Break on Through to the Other Side. Maybe there's
hope after all....
From
Darla:
I disagree with this brother
in Christ. For a contrast, check out the Focus on the Family web site at
www.family.org and type in Prayer of Jabez in the "search the site" box. Note
all the related items James Dobson uses in regard to this prayer.
Darla, I find that
today's "consensus" on spiritual matters often ignores what the Bible
actually tells us -- especially some of the less popular Scriptures. I would
rather take my stand on God's Word -- even the passages that offends -- than
to be popular and please everyone.
It is somewhat curious that this book has attracted so much negative attention
from Christians who also suffer from the disease of what my NT and Greek
professor called, I - sogesis (as in "I" see it the way "I" think it is) as
opposed to exegesis of the text. Bruce Wilkinson preaches Jesus Christ. He
has brought untold thousands of Christians into a deeper understanding of the
Bible and walk with the Lord. We are on the same team. Jesus said, "if you
aren't against me, you are for me."
Actually, it is the other way around.
Jesus said, "He
who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me
scatters." Luke 11:23
I think this guy is overreacting to how he thinks people will react to
Wilkinson's application of the Prayer of Jabez. For example, we went through
this book in our Wed. Bible study. I have two brand new (50 yr. old)
Christians in my class and I explained almost exactly what this guy says are
the negatives of Jabez. They did not misapply it as a 'health and weath'
gospel or 'name it and claim it' message at all. They accepted it as a
prayer for God to enlarge our effectiveness for Jesus Christ.
The focus of my concern was not "health
and wealth" Darla. Please read
Problems with the
Prayer of Jabez
again.
I understand what the detractors are saying but I believe they need to focus
on something that is a real problem. He is concerned that casual readers will
stop at the first part of the book. Casual readers of the Bible do the same
thing. Should we blame the writers or the book when the reader doesn't do a
full and complete study of the entire Bible before trying to derive benefit
from it?
My concern
deepened as I read to the end of the book. Please see the passages I quoted.
The Apostle John says to 'discern the spirits' to see whether they be of God.
Reading this guy's information gave me a feeling of a rigid, legalistic
approach to the Word and only he (the writer of the article) is the one who
has the real truth. He tries to nail Wilkinson for being wrong while he is
right. The Pharisees liked being right as well. Matthew 23 tells what Jesus
thought about them and their attitudes. Mt. 23:24 says, "You strain out a
gnat but swallow a camel." I think this guy is straining out a gnat with his
criticism.
From Mary: I read your
article on the Prayer of Jabez and I am thankful that God's word was presented
to lead others in the truth. So many are suffering because of our economy
that the first thing they hear to relieve them of such burdens, they go for. I
wish more people would go for the Word of God in their lives.
I had been through so much, but it was only the promises
of God that brought me through the tough times. And they were tough. I am
thankful for what God brought me through because I learned to look to Him
instead of this world.
God is Sovereign and He will do as He pleases with His
creation to bring us closer to Him. If we begin to pray a set prayer, we leave
out praise to God and He inhabits our praise. I believe that when we praise
Him through the tough times, he is pleased. How easy it is to praise Him when
everything is great and some forget when life is great. I remember when I was
at a dark hour, I was told to claim what I needed and that I was the head not
the tail. I prayed for discernment. I looked in the Word and found that God
wanted me to trust Him with my life no matter what.
What God did with Jabez was wonderful, but when God sent
His Son to die for a dying world, it was even greater because Jesus is the
answer to all that we need.
Thank you, Mary, for the message that has
been tested in your life and established in your heart. You remind me of
Romans 8:26, "Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses.
For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit
Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."
From
Stuart: I want to thank you guys for your
examination of the prayer of Jabez. I am glad that you are thinkers and don't
take stuff just because it is written in a book. However, I do think that if
you really look at the prayer that you may have missed Jabez intent. He knew
his position in life. He was to serve, honor, obey, and love God. The prayer
that Jabez prayed was not to get, rather to get to give. His real blessing was
a relationship with God. Keep up the examination.
Thanks, Stuart. But you are reading
more into the life and intentions of Jabez than the Bible tells us.
From
Jolene Laychuk, Canada: I just read your
article RE: The Prayer of Jabez. You mentioned that God does not always answer
our prayers as the book suggests. I understand the other points you made, but
in this instance, I do not agree. God DOES answer this prayer because the one
praying is asking for God's will, not specific things. I believe that kind of
prayer is honored by God. Furthermore, if God is using the book to help people
lead miraculous, spirit-filled lives, who are we to criticize? Did God speak
to you especially and tell you the book was wrong? Does that mean he loves you
more than the majority who "fell" for the books message? I admit, I have
questions too, but I think prayer is more befitting than crushing the faith of
many through your daunting criticism. God can and will use whatever means to
draw people to himself.
Jolene, I appreciate your heart and I
don't doubt that God answers your prayers. But He doesn't necessarily
answer the prayers of the non-Christians who read the book, nor those who
rebel against Him. Please look again at my article and see some of the
references that show God's conditions for answered prayer.
From Dennis M:
I immediately identified with the letter sent in by Sharon Bryant,
especially the part where she said that when she has sent your articles out to
friends and family, they became upset. Apparently even her husband was
somewhat upset. This type of response from many other professing Christians
has also been my experience.
I attend a good Baptist Bible believing church, although I
have seen some "relaxation" on certain things. For example, one church member
said that sometimes people (meaning you) will write a negative slant on
someone else's material (the Prayer of Jabez book) because they can't get
their own stuff published. I did not respond to his remark, because my
reaction was "say what!?!?"
His response basically made no sense to me, and I instantly
knew it did not apply to you at all. He then asked me if I had read the book.
Well, I had to be honest and tell him I had not. So, I went out and bought
one. I still have not read it. I simply cannot get past the forward, in which
is stated in so many words that this is the prayer that God ALWAYS answers.
I just cannot get past that, because it is NOT what I read
out of the Bible. I ask the Lord everyday to keep me from idols. Again I thank
Him and you for your material, which has helped me so very much. Again I must
tell you that your books "In His Name" are so edifying to me.
From
Jesse:
I'm a 17 year old teen living in Christ, who came upon your
article on 'The prayer of Jabez' while surfing the net for some more
information on the book as I'm much interested in reading it. Although I have
not yet read the book myself, I have heard personally on air Dr. Bruce
Wilkinson's talk on Jabez's prayer with Dr. Dobson on Focus On The Family - a
few times to be exact, and I have understood what Dr. Wilkinson is SAYING, not
'implying', in introducing and discussing the prayer of Jabez.
In point 2. of your article, where it's written -
"The preface of the book implies that God not only answer
this prayer, His answer is always "yes."
That's a denial of some of the Bible's guidelines for answered prayer. For
example, Psalm 66:18 tells us that "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the
Lord will not hear." And Proverbs 21:13 warns, "Whoever shuts his ears to
the cry of the poor will also cry himself and not be heard."
I, for one, have heard Dr. Wilkinson explaining clearly and
not only that, EMPHASIZING the important point that God will not hear us and
work fully in us while we keep sin in us. He explains this very clear when he
talked about how vital it is not to sin when discussing the part 2-3 of the
Jabez prayer, that when the enemy targets in on us because we're expanding our
borders (in sense of ministry) and moving into his territory, and we continue
asking God for more ministry that he takes it right past us so that we are
beyond overwhelmed to do it in our own strength, that's when we really ask for
God to 'let his hand be upon us' and HE will do it in us and we'll know it,
and give him the credit. That's when Dr. Wilkinson points out that it's vital
that we don't sin in the midst of it.
So, the bottom line is, I don't think that you can say
or should say that what Dr. Wilkinson 'implis' (as you put it - it's not even
what he actually 'says'!) in his book is a "a denial of some of the Bible's
guidelines for answered prayer" and the xample that follows which you gave on
sin.
Your points are all good, Jesse,
and I agree with much of what you say. But my article was based on the
Wilkinson's book, not his radio interview with Dr. Dobson. I
was concerned about the unbliblical promises made in the book to both
Christians and non-Christians who may never hear him clarify those points.
Remember, he has marketed his books to a worldwide audience. Many don't
understand the work of the cross. Nor do they understand the nature and
consequences of sin. Yet, those readers are promised (through the book) a
"Yes" from God. Wilkinson doesn't know the particular human heart nor God's
will for that individual. Therefore, he cannot know how God will respond.
This little book illustrates clever marketing techniques, not biblical
integrity.
Indeed
as Christians, we are to expect and surely have sufferings, pain, and
hardships in our lives as Jesus said we would have trouble, but from the
Scriptures I think we can know that we are also meant for blessings in our
lives (not only in heaven, but while we're on earth), and we miss out on so
many blessings we could have when we don't ASK. James said "you have not,
because you ask not" and on it goes about the wrong things we ask of in
vanity of our own world desires which you mention as one of the examples in
your article. But the blessing talked about in the prayer of Jabez (the first
part)is not a specific request! It's asking for God to give to us and bless us
in ways that he knows best and knows would best bless us the most.
Dr.
Wilkinson talked about how the blessing can be in many forms - NOT just the
physical and material, but also what's of our heart! Many times, we don't
know or grasp how much we are already blessed and we certainly don't feel much
blessed.
The
first part of the prayer of Jabez can be asking God to work in our hearts so
that we can FEEL blessed and know we are blessed, and have greater joy in
abundance through that. It's having our hearts filled with joy and blessings,
and that's a blessing in itself.
That is so true,
Jesse. How blessed we are to know Him and be filled with His life!
Grant Noble: Your analysis of the "Prayer
of Jabez" was excellent. I wondered why it exploded out of nowhere. Maybe it
was because our New World Order "Masters" were trying to get us sidetracked
from real prayer before the big terror attacks.
From
Larry: I've been a Christian as long as I
can remember. However, it's only in the last 3 years that I've really been
reading God's word. When I heard about the prayer of Jabez, I was skeptical at
first. Then as I heard more stories of it and even my mother told me to start
using, whom I admire and trust to be a true saint of God, I still couldn't get
the nagging feeling that it was wrong. Your article helped me put meat to my
thoughts with Biblical references. Thank you!
Also, there's one thing that everyone fails to see about Jabez... "Jabez was
more honorable than his brothers..." 1 Chron. 4:9. Don't you think this had
something to do with his answered prayer, and not just the prayer itself (I'm
talking to those who believe in the prayer and not you of course.).
Jabez trusted God when he began to
pray, but God's answer surely strengthen his faith and made him more
honorable. His heart and faith were more important than the words of the
prayer. Anyone can pray nice words, but God tests the heart. And He is
always faithful to bless those who trust Him. (Did I understand your
question correctly?)
Yes, you did interpret my question correctly, and I agree
whole heartedly that it's what's in the heart and not what you pray.
There's one other scripture reference that refers to this same thing. Ps 37:4
"Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give
you the desires of your heart." I interpret this verse to not only
say he'll give you the desires that you have, but you will be given God's
desires as well. So, your desires will be His desires.
I see Christians who interpret this as to, He will give me
wealth, success, etc. if I delight myself in Him. However, I don't think they
truly realize that as they delight themselves in Christ, they're desires for
worldly things changes and become desires of Christ. It's an amazing
transformation.
Thank you, Larry, for your insights. I so
appreciate your heart.
From
R: Your article on Dr. Wilkerson’s book, as
with most of your website, seems to find fault everywhere accept in your
little world in Tonga (.to). The .to relegates most everything you have to say
to that of a small, insignificant, envious cry baby.
Thanks for the opportunity to explain
our domain name. When we tried to find a meaningful domain name a few years
ago, everything we liked had already been claimed within the standard in
.com, .org, and .net. So when our server offered us .to, we saw an
opportunity to use one of the names we liked. At the time, we were told that
the king of Tonga was Christian. That was welcome news. So we do not live in
a "little world in Tonga." And I would guess that the king is more than
happy to let a big U.S. server handle the domain for his land.
While reading this fantastic little book, I did not once
consider making it a mantra. How could you even suggest that was anyone’s
intention? Each of the four parts of the prayer are beautifully explained. The
book’s purpose is clearly *NOT* to enrich or empower Dr. Wilkerson, but to
enlighten readers as to the power of prayer, and for each reader to search
his/her soul as to the purposefulness of their own prayers, and ask God for
blessings that might allow them to do MORE work for God…
Your motives may be pure, and wholly Christian, but your entire website reeks
of envy, jealousy, and boredom. Why spend so much time “crucifying” the works
of others?????
I write these warnings because God tells
us in Ezekiel 3 and 33 to be His watchmen:
Ez 3:17-27
You obviously know the Bible inside-out. I would much
rather consider YOUR commentary on Jabez’s prayer, than your commentary on Dr.
Wilkerson’s commentary…
I did comment on Jabez's prayer.
It is good -- a special part of God's wonderful Word. My concern focused on
the unbiblical promises made by Dr. Wilkerson and his marketing people.
From
Dennis Monroe: The pastor of the church I
attend is definitely a Bible believing man who preaches the truth of the
Gospel and goes to great lengths to adhere to God's truth. However, he is
young (32) and has of late, I think, been somewhat "hood-winked" by the book
"Prayer of Jabez." I have heard him mention it a few times during a couple of
his recent sermons. Last Sunday I even heard the words "Wilkinson says" come
from the pulpit. I really don't think anyone else caught it, but I did, mainly
because of your writings on the subject and the Lord's discernment.
As you know, Dennis, people have
always sought human authorities who can provide practical "wisdom" on
current topics -- better and more pleasing "wisdom" than the body of truth
God gave us through His Word. It's can be tempting for leader to paint the
gospel with subtle suggestions that "tickle the ears" of followers.
2 Timothy 4:3-4
Andy and I could be vulnerable to this as well. So I
keep praying that we not distort His Word or soften the "offense of the
cross." We trust Him to lead and humble us as we continue to encourage and
exhort one another to follow Jesus Christ, our Lord, not popular messages
and human sages. But such a commitment will not make us popular in today's
"feel good" culture.
From John:
I read your webpage about the book and audio tape
called "The Prayer of Jabez". After reading your website, I have come to the
conclusion that you did not listen to the audio cassette made by Bruce
Wilkinson. If you did, you would not have posted such a condeming webpage on
such a biblical truth as presented by Bruce Wilkinson.
This book and audio tape in no way suggests the
idea of health, wealth, and name it and claim it. If you listen to what the
author is saying you will realize that he is telling people that if you ask
God to guide you and to show you what his will for your life is, then he will
answer that prayer. He is telling people to ask God to open their lives to
what God has in store for them. He is using Jabez prayer as a vehicle to
motivatge peopel to seek God's will in their lives in the area of saving the
lost.
The entire tape is about local and world
evangelism. It's not about your paranoia concerning the likes of "the name it
and claim it" group.
Why don't you listen to the man before you
criticize him.
I would be glad to listen to the
tape if you would send me a copy. Meanwhile, keep in mind that my concern
focused on what Wilkinson promised in his book, not what he teaches
elsewhere.
Second letter from
John: What Bruce Wilkinson is
doing is using the theme of the Jabez prayer to teach concepts about
spreading the gospel. He is not advocating that people pray the prayer
literally over and over like a Budhist monk or to chant the prayer as
Catholics do. The theme in the Jabez prayer is the same theme in the Lord's
prayer, which is "Father, thy will be done." He is advocating that people
pray the themes and ideas of the prayer.
Here are the basic themes found in both
prayers: 1) God give me opportunities to help others and to share the
gospel with others. Let Thy will be done.
2) Lord, I depend totally upon you to
accomplish your will for me in my life. 3) Lord, protect us and deliver
us from evil.
The idea that Bruce is sharing with all of us is
to pray these themes in our own words, or you could use the words of either
prayer, The Prayer of Jabez or the Lord's prayer. Bruce is not teaching
that there is some kind of magic in these prayers. He is teaching that if
we pray for God's Will to be done, then it will be done.
Of course there are going to be those who will
abuse this teaching. Just like the "name it and claim it" crowd abuse
scripture. I imagine that there are some out there who think this is a prayer
for personal income growth, and they will try to abuse it. Just about every
scripture has been abused by someone. We can't throw out the water with the
baby. You can't throw out scripture just because Kenneth Copeland, Benny Hinn,
or Kenneth Hagin uses various scripture. The Bible is the Bible. You have to
rightly divide the Word of God. Just because Kenneth Copeland says that "God
supplies all my needs according to His riches in Glory by Christ Jesus" is not
a reason for us to not learn from that scripture. I can't throw that
scripture out just because Copeland says it a thousand times over the TV set.
Likewise with the Prayer of Jabez, we can't mock this scripture, strike it
out, or delegate it to the category of "non-use" just because some Bible dean
tries to abuse it and to get money for the college. The ideas of both prayers
are powerful links to God and His will for our lives.
I agree, John. That's why I showed
appreciation for Jabez' Biblical prayer. I did not criticize or demean the
Bible. I shared my concern over some specific promises that Wilkinson -- not
God -- made to all his readers. God's doesn't give us permission or
authority to make unconditional spiritual promises that reach far beyond
what he promises the masses in His Word.
All of the leading conservative preachers have
no problem with The Prayer of Jabez: James D. Kennedy, James Dobson, Billy
Graham, R.C. Sproll, Adrian Rogers, Chuck Swindoll, and others. If these
Bible scholars have no problem with Wilkinson's use of the prayer, then
neither should we.
I try to base my views on God Word
-- not on people's opinions. In fact, I'm amazed at the compromises made by
many Christian leaders these days. Sometimes it seems that the Shepherds of
God's flocks are leading the way toward a new unbiblical consensus.
See
Harry Potter Lures Kids to Witchcraft - with praise
from Christian leaders.
The Church follows close behind the world.
See
Statistics for the Changing Church
and
Col 2:8.
Vrai:
I agree with you. It is presented as a magic formula for a miracle. Plus as
you pointed out, it is not said "in the name of Jesus." The Lord said,
whatsoever you ask in my name... Also, the Bible talks frequently about
praying amiss. As you pointed out - the Lord's prayer has all the components
for an audience with the Lord - nothing amiss here.
Notice how the book is
publicized and popular? Because most Christians do not want to walk by the
way of the cross "as He [Jesus] walked, so are we to walk," they want their
flesh served by name it - claim it magic formulas. Sad but true. The one who
encourages them in this illusion/delusion/fantasy are the ones they love, and
support (teachers having itching ears). Read Psalm 37.
Thank you for
your kind words and for sharing our concerns. May we post your comment on
the Jabez page of the comments section? We appreciate the way you help us
make those points.
Sure.
Post it in comments. Glad to help - anytime. I too, am very concerned that the
Church is preaching "another Jesus" - not the Jesus of faith and obedience -
even to death on the cross.
Interesting to note that satan showed Jesus the kingdoms of the world and
boasted that the kingdoms of the world had been delivered into his hands [by
the disobedience of Adam and Eve] and all the power and glory of them, to give
to whomsoever he will give them to, and he would give them to Jesus if Jesus
would worship him (Luke 4:5 -7).
Funny
how most Christians swallow this deception and believe that they should have
the kingdoms of the world before Rev. ll:15 is fulfilled, when "the kingdoms
of the world become the kingdoms of our God and His Christ." Especially as we
are told "we have no continuing city here - but seek the one to come." And the
Scriptures continually warn us that those who are born in the Spirit should
walk in the Spirit and not FULFILL THE LUSTS OF THE FLESH.
Christians fall heed to the same power, money and sex (lusts of the eyes,
flesh, and boastful pride of life) that caused the Fall in the first place.
Then they try to fix it with FIG LEAF solutions (Genesis 3:7). People do not
understand the full doctrine of Jesus Christ. Most still want power and to
make a name for themselves - when the Lord has given us those things IN HIM -
That HE should have preeminence. After all, He called Jacob, Israel, which
means "a prince having power with God and man," and He made Abraham's name
great, and we are the children of Abraham.
Not to
mention that we walk in THE POWER OF JESUS' NAME for the promise to Abraham
has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ. That is why we intercede so diligently -
that Christians will READ the Scriptures for themselves and not fall heed to
"every wind of doctrine." satan is smart and busy - he is a roaring lion
seeking to devour. Like a shark - he swims and eats...he is a destroyer. We
need to KNOW - STAND ON- AND WALK in the Word of God as Jesus did. Jesus
Christ is the Word of God made flesh, so that we could be born again and
follow Him.
Our
prayers are with you as you labour in His Harvest Field for the true Word.
From
the Callow family:
YOUR CRAZY!!! My Friend Kyle Thinks What"s Wrong With Left
Behind?! Pastor"s See Nothing WRONG! Vieggie Tales Are Not EVIL OK Talking
Plant"s Are Not EVIL !!!!!!!!!! HOW DUMB CAN YOU GET
MS.FYFG6YIGR9F8YHYU8YFYGIDJFHLKSNNHVSKU!!
Are you serious?
In earlier letters you
identified yourself as a Christian. Who is Jesus Christ to you?
From
John: I read your
webpage about the book and audio tape called "The Prayer of Jabez". After
reading your website, I have come to the conclusion that you did not listen to
the audio cassette made by Bruce Wilkinson. If you did, you would not have
posted such a condeming webpage on such a biblical truth as presented by Bruce
Wilkinson.
This book and audio tape in no way suggests the
idea of health, wealth, and name it and claim it. If you listen to what the
author is saying you will realize that he is telling people that if you ask
God to guide you and to show you what his will for your life is, then he will
answer that prayer. He is telling people to ask God to open their lives to
what God has in store for them. He is using Jabez prayer as a vehicle to
motivatge peopel to seek God's will in their lives in the area of saving the
lost.
The entire tape is about local and world
evangelism. It's not about your paranoia concerning the likes of "the name it
and claim it" group. Why don't you listen to the man before you criticize
him.
I appreciate your correction,
John, but my only concern was the book that Wilkinson wrote -- not the
Biblical prayer nor the tape. I have not listened to any of his tapes, nor
did I write about them. Please read my article again -- with prayer for
God's understanding -- and you will see the focus of my concern. You seem to
have missed my main points.
From a concerned Christian:
(The first part of this letter is posted in
Multiple Topics. I passed your article of the Prayer of Jabez on to some
people I know. There were some varied responses, and I suppose you will get
the gamut of negative responses from believers about this article. My nana
though wrote to me: "WE ARE VERY GLAD YOU SENT THIS TO US". She also said she
probably would have prayed the prayer "expecting great results", she said that
she agreed with you and even though the prayer itself is fine and that God may
answer it for many people, we should keep our focus on Jesus.
I got two other positive responses. And two very
negative ones. They didn't appear to have read your whole article, they think
you were condemning the fact that God has given us promises. Even though he
has given us promises, He never promised that we would have no troubles in
this life, and never promised that we would live without the consequences of
our actions in this life. He never promised it would be an easy road. He
always tells us to concentrate first on the kingdom of God and to love him
first, then we will get all that we need.
I am so sorry you get these negative reactions to your
articles. Sometimes I think that people are so fanatical about say, Sailor
Moon (which I never felt "right" about watching) and the Prayer of Jabez that
ANY negativity or ANY criticism or even ANY caution means they can make
assumptions of how or what you are thinking on a broad spectrum of other
topics even if you never expressed them. They stop thinking about it, or even
reading the whole article clearly, and start writing angry letters
impulsively. At least, that is what I think they are doing, the majority of
them.
From
Vicky: When I first heard about this book and
the concept behind what the author is trying to "teach" a check went off in my
spirit. Ever since I initially read the passage in 1 Chron. about Jabez a
while ago (before I knew about this book) this is what jumped out at me: Jabez
was cursed because of his name. Not only did the name have significance in the
physical back then -but in the spiritual. As does our names! This is a lost
heritage, I believe, for us as believers!
In James (don't have my Word in front of me) we are taught
that with the tongue we either tear down or build up; it is a powerful sword!
Our names have significant meanings! For Jabez, everytime someone said his
name, which mean "pain" his life, in the spirit, was being cursed! Another
example - take my name, Victoria, which means "victorious in spirit",
everytime someone says my name I am being blessed with a victorious spirit!
Refresh my memory - was there not a verse in the scriptures that said by
calling a brother in the Lord a name it was the same as killing him? The
tongue is powerful!
Could you be referring to James 3:8-9?
"But no man can tame the
tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it
we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in
the similitude of God."
Jabez prayed this prayer BECAUSE he knew the
ramifications of what his name meant. He was asking God to reverse the curse
on his life and make it a blessing instead! This is why we must be careful in
the names that we choose to name our children!
Another point is this: Does not the Word tell us to pray
in the Spirit at all times, never ceasing to pray. Does not the Word also tell
us that when we don't know what to pray the Spirit intercedes for us with
groanings and utterings? If the Spirit knows what to pray then - and we are
praying in the SPirit, and we are praying what GOD WANTS to be prayed - should
we not also, at ALL times be praying what God is telling us to pray? If he
tells us to pray for a blessing, then we shall, or to enlarge our territories
we shall pray for that too; but only if and when he instructs us to. We shall
NOT try to manipulate God, for all manipulation is a form of witchcraft. When
we are praying out of his will, and praying out of our flesh for our fleshly
desires we are trying to manipulate the Lord. We must be careful, for to be
disobedient is to sin.
The book, I believe, opens up the Bride's eyes to the
fact that there are many more things we should be praying for and shouldn't
limit what God wants us to pray. But, again, praying only within the confines
of what God is telling us to pray. I thought the author was doing a good job
explaining to apply the concept of what he asked for to our prayers. However,
I was greatly disappointed to the fact that at the end he told the believers
to pray the Jabez prayer over and over. That wasn't what he was giving
examples of throughout the book. When he mentioned he prayed for the Lord to
keep evil from him on an airplane - it was the concept that he was adapting.
He didn't say the prayer word for word. Throughout the book he doesn't mention
that he said the prayer word for word, but yet he is telling his readers to do
this. That really struck a bad chord with me.
I appreciate your insights, Vicky.
I don't see everything you see in this passage, but I'm not disagreeing with
you. I just can't affirm what God hasn't shown me. But I praise Him with
you for His faithfulness to answer all our prayers when we pray according to
His Word and will.
From
Char: (Sorry I
didn't post this earlier Char)
I got a letter (along with about 2 or 3 million other people) from Focus on
The Family and on the outside of the envelope it said, "This is possibly the
most important letter I've ever written" Well, of course I tore it open
immediately..it was about the visit this gentleman (forgot just who...maybe B.
Wilkinson?) Anyway, then I read it... something just didn't sit right about
it. And then on the radio broadcast wednesday morning, he READ the letter....
it sure didn't sit right then.
Something about the way he described the effect that this 'teaching' had on
him and "his entire staff"... anyway, thought you might be interested...
From
Linda Warncke: "I've been thinking and
praying some more in regard to Jabez book. Looking closely at Galatians and
Colossians there is a priority focus on the cross of Jesus Christ and what God
accomplishes in His people through that way. In Jesus' prayer in Matthew 6
(the Lord's Prayer) there is also the presence of our need for God's
forgiveness. In Jabez' prayer and the way it is being taught, there is no
cross or need for one.
Got to thinking about what Jesus said in John 6 to some
folks who were impressed by His feeding of the thousands: In verse 28 they
ask Him, "What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?" Verse 29
Jesus replies, This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has
sent."
The book The Prayer of Jabez, provides a subtle
shift of emphasis away from a simple belief in and devotion to Jesus Christ
the person, substituting an emphasis on how "we may work the works of God."
It is very generic and without the cross "enlarged ministry" is lacking
God's own message.
One of the winnowing forks of the end times is that many
will turn away from the love of the truth and turn aside to fables and
supernatural experiences. There is a need for
testing the spirits.
Thank you, Linda, for mentioning
the cross. One of my favorite Scriptures is Galatians 2:20: "I have been
crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in
me...." Somehow the essence of the exchanged life (through the cross, He
takes my failing life and fills me with His victorious life) is missing in
both of Wilkinson's popular books.
From
Jeff: I happen to notice something about
the prayer of Jabez recently. I am on the mailing list for Vanguard University
(in Costa Mesa, an Assembly of God college---years ago I took a couple classes
there). In their mailer they were using the Jabez prayer as a way to get
prayers for the University and to raise funds. I was very disappointed to see
that, as I agree with your take on the prayer. I wonder just how many
Christians colleges, churches and ministries are embracing this?
Thank you, Jeff, for being so
observant. You bring an important reminder to pray for our Christian schools
and colleges. See The
Global Church.
From
Don M.:
Certainly, in a time where freedoms are being lost
and concensus thinking has swept america like a flood, the last thing the
Church needs is any warning or admonition about the sudden momentous interest
in a book chronicling the "Prayer of Jabez".
As beleivers, we are to pray, and that without ceasing, though we fail to do
so more often than we care to admit.Certainly, a book calling people to pray
...could never nor should never be subjected to the klieg lights of Biblical
examination...
So goes the mantra from so many within the Body of Christ....who seem to
"want" to beleive that there is little reason for concern about a book
promoting prayer...but then, is that what the book is promoting ?
The book is a mix of some good theology on God's Blessings and His Nature,
but, the foreword of the book, and in several sections of the book, the
Prayer of Jabez is most definately morphed into something that should give
all beleivers great concern and reflection.
God is desirous of Prayer..and Prayer is our priviledge as children of the
Father through Jesus Christ... God answers Prayer, and God Blesses ...and
God says NO, and God says WAIT.... The point being..." GOD " does these
things ....we do not, nor can we apply a series of previously prayed
prayers, and then "expect" God to answer us in the same manner as He "chose
sovereignly" to answer Jabez.
This is no small point.... The foreword of the book makes it plain that God
always answers this daring prayer...and asks later for the reader to commit
to praying Jabez' prayer VERBATIM for a period of not less than 30 days. The
author makes it plain that miracles are just the other side of our grasping
this "universal principle".
Yea...right......
I for one, am not surprised to see these kinds of books out. I have been
discerning for a significant amount of time now...a "devaluation of Gods
Sovereignty, and an ELEVATION of "mans" abilities to "manipulate GOD". This
is not only Unbiblical, it is fraught with error, vanity, and it takes away
from God's Glory...and elevates the words spoken by a previously unnoticed
beleiver named Jabez.
Jabez got his prayer answered, yes....but...and this is the key.... it was
GOD..and GOD alone....who Himself Willed to Honour Jabez Prayer!!!....it was
not the "specific words" Jabez prayed, how he said them, spelled them, or
thought about them while praying them..
The moment we are led to beleive that we all have been missing something by
not looking for a hidden technique or specific language to be prayed and for
a specific amount of time, we are no longer trusting God, but are actually
becoming little sorcerers, who have been deluded into thinking God MUST
answer our prayers and WILL do so, and always FAVORABLY...just because we
finally got the RECIPE right.
God is the searcher of the intent of the heart, and He knows what we need
before we even ask. God desires us to pray anyway as loving submission and
Obedience to Him. The Holy Spirit is the intercessor for us when we pray
..with groanings which cannot be uttered.
With that knowledge and the assistance of the Holy Spirit, I am thankful
that Jabez got his prayer answered by our Great God ...but I beleive Jabez
would be dismayed to see how his prayer is being marketed and sold as the
"hidden keys" to success.
The most dangerous lie is not the one that is so vile and evil that everyone
notices it, the most dangerous lies are those which contain 98% edible
ingredients, and speak our lingo.
Gods Glory and His Honor and His WILL are paramount to me as a beleiver, and
I beleive that the Prayer of Jabez subtly puts man in the drivers seat and
characterizes God as one whom we can manipulate for OUR WILL..
Finally, the book asks its readers to keep a journal around to keep track of
all the little and not so little miracles that happen and ...listen to
this... tells the reader that they should give credit then to the Prayer of
Jabez!!!!!!
I do not give honour for answered prayer to any saint dead or alive...nor to
a saints previously prayed words, nor to a 21st century authors notion that
God alone shouldnt get all the GLORY..and I mean ALL of it.
God doesnt share His Glory with any man, even with MR. Jabez. Mr Jabez was
Blessed beacuse God, in His Majesty , Power and Omnipotent Power ....chose
to do so...and granted Mr. Jabez request. I can learn from Jabez simply
that God is a Loving God , and GOD wants me to know that by evidence of
Scripture GOD has the power to answer prayer in any fashion, and at any
time, and for anyone as GOD deems fit. See a pattern ? ITS ALL ABOUT GOD
!!! Not us !!!
Beware the trendy end times deification of man and so called Universal
principles of success...they ultimately have the impact of DEVALUING GOD,
and HIS SOVEREIGNTY..and that should be enough reason for any child of God
to warn others of this subtle yet dangerous mix of Error and Truth.
TO GOD BE THE GLORY !!!!
From
J. Morgan
Drake: **SIGH** Thank you for posting the article on this obscure
prayer and what is being done with it today. I confess, I have not read the
book, and have only read this article, but over the years I have come to trust
what I find on your site (And would tell you immediately if I found something
objectionable :O) ), and knew in my spirit as I read this article that what it
said was correct.
Unfortunately, I have two dear friends, a married couple, who love the Lord,
but are caught up in so many thiings NOT of God, ie., the "ho/crunch-bunch"
(those who bend over all the time, shouting "HO!!" as if it were something
spiritual and of the Lord), Cerrello, Hinn, Joyner, the gold dust/teeth
"miracles", etc. Now they have read this book on Jabez and think it is the way
to go. I talked to the wife about this and sent your web address for this
article to them, but they do not understand. Guess as a last resort I will
need to read the book, make notes, and see what the Lord gives me in speaking
with them.
What next? I wish I knew.
From
Marilynn: Our church, _____ (Baptist -
they dropped the Baptist a few years ago) Church in ____, Texas is hosting a
BreakThru 2001 Conference July 26-30. Guess who is the guest speaker? Dr.
Bruce Wilkinson. He will be speaking Saturday in a seminar from 9:00AM to
4:00PM entitled Vision of a Leader (for Pastors and Business Leaders). Here is
an excerpt:
"Have you found your vision as a leader? This study will
help you do just that. You'll explore the source of your vision, the power
for it, the proof of it, and the testing you can expect. You'll experience
refreshment and revival in your spiritual life as this study leads you
through the steps of confession and cleansing needed for God to plant a new
vision in your life.
And you'll learn what to do when you
experience the inevitable disquieting ideas and doubts about your dream.
Everyone is called to be a leader in some capacity, but you cannot be truly
successful without God's vision in your heart."
In all of the brochures, there is heavy reference that
if you are not a pastor or business people you may not attend. Yet, in the
statement above it says everyone is called to be a leader. It is my experience
that I find that not everyone is called to be a leader. In fact, it is not the
majority. I have many concerns with this seminar.
Also, Dr. Bruce Wilkinson will be speaking at all Sunday
morning services (8:00, 9:30 & 11:00AM) entitled Break Thru to New Life,
Experiencing Spiritual Break Thrus. On Sunday evening, 6:00PM-9:30PM and
Monday evening, 7:00PM-9:30PM, he will be speaking on the Prayer of Jabez
(Break Thru to New Life). Here is an excerpt (promotional).
"Do you hunger for a positive, exciting change in your
life? Are you eager to take your marriage, family life, personal growth, and
walk with the Lord to the next level? If so, you are ready to Experience
Spiritual Break Thrus! This compelling presentation using "Three chairs"
will allow you to identify which of the three stages of spiritual growth you
are in - Commitment, Compromise, or Conflict. Be prepared to experience
profound renewals in your personal walk with God, marriage, and family."
By the way, Sunday AM is free, but all other times there
is a fee of $15.00 per person per session.
In March, I was in our local Christian bookstore. There
was big display on the checkout counters of the Prayer of Jabez. I first
thought this was some Catholic/Episcopal writing on some special prayer to
make every one feel good. I read the jingle "Discover how to release the
miraculous power of God in your life! See what God will do for you when you
put Jabez' prayer to work!"
I did not purchase the book but I left the bookstore
that day with an indelible impression of concern. I asked the store clerks
about the book - they had nothing but raves about. Since then I have met many
people and have talked to many of my friends who all attend various bible
churches, Baptist churches, Presbyterian, etc.. and all are singing the
praises of this book. When the upcoming seminar was announced at our church, I
told my husband I wanted to attend all sessions because it appeared to me to
contain some transformational thinking (ideology). I then went to Dr. Bruce
Wilkinson's website. It was still to vague for me(theology). It promotes
purchasing the latest books and working for their ministry.
In the last two weeks, there are more complete brochures
with information for each seminar that I have picked up. It wasn't until
tonight that I went on your website and read your expose on the Prayer of
Jabez. I just finished reading it. You have confirmed my concerns. I now will
purchase his book and be ready for the conference.
Thank you, Marilynn, for sharing
our concerns and for sending this information. It helps us understand some
of the changes in today's churches.
From CC:
you have just said that the prayer of jabez
(the book) is evil well you see my uncle who is a lutherain pastor came over
and i showed him the site needless to say he thought it was crazy but he look
at the objections to the prayer of jabez and you know what he told me YOU MUST
HAVE THE SAME OBJECTIONS TO THE LORDS PRAYER for they are saying the same
thing it helps you to enhance your prayer life and be clooser to god so i am
taking a guess you don't like the lords prayer at a different way or don't
like it anywho mail me back maybe you can clear things you. god bless you,
CC, did you really read my article?
I didn't say that the Prayer of Jabez is evil. Quite the opposite. I showed
appreciation for the habit of praying Scriptures back to God. I used the
Lord's Prayer as an illustration of how Jesus wanted us to pray. My
objection was to the promises made, not by God, but by the author and those
who did the marketing of the book. Those promises were not Biblical.
I appreciate your desire to be
closer to God. That's my desire as well. In fact, we may not be as far apart
in our hearts as you seem to think.
Jeff: I happen to
notice something about the prayer of Jabez recently. I am on the mailing list
for Vanguard University (in Costa Mesa, an Assembly of God college---years ago
I took a couple classes there). In their mailer they were using the Jabez
prayer as a way to get prayers for the University and to raise funds. I was
very disappointed to see that, as I agree with your take on the prayer. I
wonder just how many Christians colleges, churches and ministries are
embracing this?
From Debbie:
Several things came to my mind as I read through
this article. First and foremost I want to refer to the paragraph quoted by
George Barna, "One of the frightening things that we find in our research all
the time is that even among the tens of millions of born again Christians,
about half of them would say that when it comes to Christianity they are not
absolutely committed to the faith,…we've made it too easy to be part of the
Christian church. I think that there is very little sense of privilege and awe
and responsibility that comes along in our culture with the notion of being
considered a disciple of Christ. It is like, "Hey, I got my salvation taken
care of, I've got my membership card at my church. Not let me go to the
country club and do my thing." The problem is that Christianity is not just
about being a church member. It is about consistently trying to become more
like Christ. It is about life transformation.
This is a true statement and I believe that Bruce
Wilkinson is writing to those people who are looking to be more like Jesus
every day. As I look at The Prayer of Jabez I see a man asking the "God of
Isreal" to bless him. First of all Jabez is praying to "the God", his God. He
has not just gotten his ticket etc. but is truly wanting to have a more
consistent life and become more like Christ. I looked in my Bible program and
there were so many verses having to do with blessings that I could not begin
to list them all but here are 3---Psalm 23:1, Psalm 27:14 and Psalm 29:11.
Blessings are promised by God for His people all through scripture.
All your points are good, Debbie.
My concern is that the book is popular among thousands if not millions of
people who do not take God's Word as seriously as you do. As said in the
beginning of the article, "Millions have joined his quest. Many have
testified to miraculous answers which demonstrate God's love, mercy and
intervention on behalf of those who seek Him. But these amazing
interventions and anecdotal stories don't prove that God "always answers"
this specific prayer. Nor do they verify that this Old Testament prayer by
itself "contains the key" to extraordinary favor with God.
The main problem, as I see
it, is the marketing strategy of suggesting that these particular words will
bring greater response from God than all other prayers. But, all the more, I
want to show appreciation for all who pray these words
with faith in God, not in a
formula.
The Bible does emphasize God's
blessings throughout Scriptures. He wants to make sure that we know that He
will provide everything we need to walk victoriously with Him each day. My
concern is that unbiblical promises mislead people and prompt them to
believe that God has chosen one particular prayer out of the Bible to give
us as a formula prayer which will always bring the blessing we
seek.
God blessings cannot be invoked by
a set of words. The New Testament lists all kinds of reasons for why God
may not pour out His blessings one someone who sincerely prays to Him -- no
matter what words are spoken. I listed some of those conditions in the
article, here are three more:
"Yet you do not have because you do
not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may
spend it on your pleasures. Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not
know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?" James 4:4
"Husbands,
likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the
wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the
grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered." 1 Pet 3:7
"And whenever you stand praying, if
you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven
may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither
will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses." Mark 11:25-26
I am not trying to discourage
anyone for seeking God whichever way He leads. I am simply concerned about
the promises made by Wilkinson concerning the power of these particular
words to bypass all other Scriptures dealing with prayer and blessings. For
example, read the
beatitudes (Matt 5). There we see that His blessings come to those who
follow His ways and walk by His life of mercy, righteousness and peace.
It was mentioned that this prayer seems to be in the
category of the "vain repetitions". I would ask you to consider the many
"liberal" churches (and others) over the years that have had the congregation
pray the Lord's prayer every week. Some of those people are sincere believers
but most of them are doing no more with the Lord's Prayer that using "vain
repetitions". Does that mean that we should not use the Lord's Prayer often as
it might become a prayer of vain repetitions? God does give us the Lord's
Prayer as a model but He also gives us many prayers in the book of Psalms and
they have been a wonderful help and comfort to me on many occasions. There is
a wonderful prayer I have used many times in Colossions 1:9-14. Also one in
Ephesians 3:14-19. I suppose I could have written a book about these and told
people that if they prayed them that wonderful and exciting things would
happen. It is true that if we are truly born again and desiring a Christ-like
walk that we will see exciting things happen when we pray God's word back to
Him.
I appreciate your insights, Debbie,
and have often prayed the same prayers. The second year I was a Christian, I
prayed Col 1:9-14 every morning. I so longed to live by all His wisdom and
love. I don't equate "vain repetition" with the kinds of persistent prayer
that is part of seeking Him and His presence each day. I believe He is
pleased when we use His words from Scripture -- whether the Lord's Prayer,
the 23rd Psalm or the ones you listed -- each day.
Instead, I am concerned about the
kind of rote recitation I hear people use when putting on the
The Armor of
God -- just speaking words without a Biblical understanding of what each
part means with respect to our relationship with Him. Apart from His life
-- and a growing understanding of the conditions shown us throughout the
Bible for walking in His righteousness -- the words of Jabez prayer can
easily become a recitation based on faith in a formula rather than in the
sovereign God who has all the answers we need. Does that make sense?
To continue with The Prayer of Jabez: The second part
tells us that we should ask God to enlarge our territory. There is a wonderful
passage in Gods' word that tells us that we should "Go into all the world and
preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15. As I go about my day, I love
to ask God to enlarge my territory as that means I will have a wider impact
for Him as He opens up areas of ministry for me through out my day.
Debbie, I so appreciate your heart.
Keep in mind that I started the article with a comment about the blessing of
praying His Word. The rest of the letter was directed to those who might be
tempted to trust the words rather than God Himself. But you seem to know God
well enough to avoid such a path. May He truly bless you as you walk with
Him each day.
Finishing the above letter from
Debbie Jordan: The next part of the prayer asks
for God to keep us from evil and evil from us. Scripture tells me that Jesus
prays to the Father that we might be kept from the evil one. Also, you mention
the Lord's Prayer in the article and in that prayer we are told that even
though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death that we need not fear
evil. It also asks God to "deliver us from evil". He also talks a lot about
blessing us in the first part of the psalm.
Your also mention putting on the armor of God-I heard a
message in 1980 called "Dressing for the Battle" by Charles Stanley. I began
right then to put on my armor every morning. I did not put it on because I was
reminding God that it was there but re-affirming to myself that I was ready to
meet the day and all that it held. It has never become a ritual although I do
see how it could for some people. I have never expected "magic" to happen when
I put it on and realized that if things get passed the armor then God allows
them in my life to help me grow more and learn more of Him.
Any of these things you have mentioned could become a
stumbling block in the path of a new believer or one who is not saved at all,
but I don't believe that we should throw them all out just because there are
some people who will get way off track. They will do that anyway whether it is
a prayer from the Bible or getting caught up in the angel stuff that is around
all over the place, or combining Christianity with the New Age Movement or a
myriad of other things.
In the last part of the Prayer of Jabez we asks God that
we will not cause pain and I take that to mean to God and to others. We cause
pain by our sin and we know that we are to repent of our sin on a consistent
basis and that will keep us from hurting God and others. All in all, this is a
Godly prayer. The fact that you feel some people will take is as a magic
formula or will expect miraculous things to happen on a daily basis is to put
too much blame on the prayer and not enough on us silly human beings. We will
grab at any "gold ring" we can reach and expect fantastic things to happen all
the time.
I don't put any "blame on the
prayer" at all, Debbie. As I said earlier, my concern is that the book makes
promises that neither God nor these Scriptures promise.
If we are "real" in our relationship with the Lord we
will know that the way to "blessing" sometimes leads us through dark times and
difficulties. We will not expect our life to be perfect, but look forward to
the things we will learn through these things. The song "In His Time" comes to
my mind often as I go through hard times. Those hard times have been the
vehicle to bring about wonderful blessing in my life as I seek to become more
like Jesus. So, as I look at this prayer I see just another wonderful
opportunity to grow and learn more about the God I serve. I know many will
take it the wrong way and expect magic to happen but that will happen with
many of the books that are out there. We can't stop telling great lessons that
God has taught us in fear of the fact that some "shallow believers" or
"unsaved people" will not be happy with the results. God's word and the
prayers are for those who love God and are called according to His purpose and
we will look at this prayer in the way it is meant. For all those who expect
magic-those are some of the "enlarged territory" that God gives us to pray
about and witness to. Thanks you for your time.
He has surely blessed you with much
wisdom and love for Him, Debbie. But when you read the statistics on
Biblical literacy and commitment in today's church, you can see that you are
an exception to the norm.
(See
Statistics
for the Changing Church)
To offer false promises and "cheap
grace" to the masses that are hungry for simple
answers and quick blessings will only speed the transformation of the church
from its Biblical foundation to the kind of "positive thinking" that -- like
leaven -- is corrupting both churches and the new church management systems.
See
Global Church
P.S. I had never heard of your ministry but my daughter
had some books from the radio station where her husband works (Christian
Radio) and one of them (A Twist of Faith) is written by you and I will look
forward to reading it. I have done a lot of study in the area of deception,
cults, Masonic Lodge and areas like that so I am sure I will like your book
(even though I don't totally agree with your ideas on the Prayer of Jabez.) I
feel strongly that we should be coming from the direction of Christ Esteem and
not self-esteem.
Thank you, Debbie. I believe we are
of one heart in spite of our different views on this issue. It seems to me
that you and I both want more than anything to walk in intimate personal
fellowship with our our wonderful Lord, following and serving Him always.
From Linda Warncke: "Joined
a Bible study group a couple of months ago. Good study--attributes of God--
good prayer times, too. Now we are surveying Wilkinson's book Praryer of Jabez.
I have questions. Whenever something is promoted as "the answer" with such
enthusiasm and is so widely popular, I begin to ask," what's up?"
Authentically Jesus Christ is never so popular. So what is this? I am getting
"caution" checks in my spirit.
Jabez' prayer, by itself, seems to correlate with "The
Lord's Prayer". However, the author teaches that we are to seek God's
determination as to the "blessing", but then illustrates responses to his
teaching about Jabez' prayer with examples of students praying specific
requests and getting answers according to what they asked (but without
revealing what was the result of God's ministry in the objects prayed for).
This has the attraction of "power-praying", as though the author is saying
"dependence on God" but illustrating "dictating to
God".
I have learned that error is seldom in the presentation
of truth, but most often in the application. I am trying to comprehend why I
find this Jabez Prayer powerful, but have no peace in accepting the way it is
being presented as a "secret" and and answer to the "mystery of the Christian
life" that Christians have "missed". This causes me to search and pray to see
if there is a place of divergence from the Word of God.
In the old testament, if a teacher taught truth but led
to a different "god", he was not from the True God and not to be listened to.
Also if a teacher blended the truth of God's Word with anything that was error
or from the mind of man, that person was a false teacher. God's truth is not
blended, but always pure. In this regard, I find the author's speculative
scenarios about Jabez and assumptions of "what Jabez would say..." a mixture
of fiction with some verses taken out of God's word in order to rationalize a
doctrine that focuses on experience rather than honest scholarship.
We are to test the spirits to see if they are from God.
The first thing I find myself asking is what Paul asks in Colossians 2--"Is it
Christ?" Is this what Jesus and the apostles taught? If not, why should I give
it more weight than what they clearly taught? If so, where else in Scripture
is it clearly taught?
Wilkinson's position seems to be that "It works!" After
hearing him read his book aloud on audio tape, it is evident that he gives
more credit to the Lord than the book did by changing some of the author's
expressions. The question remains, does the fact that "it works!" become the
test of the spirit?
Another question is how a genuine thing might be misused
as a magical formula by those who do not otherwise seek Christ. I have been
told by a pastor I deeply respect that the Lord will "sort it out". I believe
that 2 Thes. 2:10-12 gives some encouragement that those who love and believe
the truth will have some protection by the Lord in regard to delusion and
deceiving influences. The key is to abide in the Lord and in His Word, seeking
Him in all things.
I don't want to dismiss Wilkinson out-of-hand, but
neither do I want to see a great wind of doctrine fabricated on some obscure
verses as though they meant more than all the other teaching of Christ and
Scripture combined.
Those who love the Lord would rejoice to see a genuine
revival in the land and in the churches--a return to Jesus Christ in spirit
and in truth. What has been the effect in the people and places who are
praying this way? What should we be looking for? Is there a fellowship with
Jesus Christ, are they walking in the light, abiding in the Word of God,
loving brothers in Christ, acknowledging the Father and the Son? Whose glory
do they seek? What is evident in the lives of the Jabez-prayers? We need the
Lord's help and discernment here and that means we need to go to Him,
personally, and seek His face and His sure direction. Jesus taught us how to
pray (Matt.6) and Paul gives us a terrific example of what to ask (Eph.3). I
am asking the Lord to sort it out.
Thank you, Linda, for your wise
caution and good questions. I appreciate your insight.
From
Jacob: I have read the book "Prayer of
Jabez" and I was wondering if you could summarize your article and concerns
because I am not quite sure I understand. My only problem would be that people
would use it as a mantra, but, used as a sincere prayer from a born-again
bible believing Christian, I see no conflict. Rather, I have seen my life
blessed and changed as I have prayed it. Just wondering...
Your brother in Christ, Jake
While I believe He would prefer the
Lord's Prayer as an outline for daily prayer (for the reasons I gave in the
article), I don't see a problem with praying the words of any prayer in the
Bible as long as it doesn't become a rote recitation -- and as long as the
focus is on our true and sovereign God. When prayed by a Christian who knows
and loves Him, it will be heard and answered according to His wise and
loving plan for that person's life. That's why I included the following
statements in the first part of the article. I must not have emphasized that
enough.
"...our
Lord delights in the prayers of His saints -- all the daily thanks, praises
and petitions that turn our hearts to Him in faith, worship and surrender.
Using Bible verses as a basis for prayer and worship is a wonderful habit.
Why be concerned?
"Because
this book -- not Jabez' prayer -- promises rewards from God that God doesn't
promise in the Bible. While author
Bruce Wilkinson enriches the meaning of Jabez' prayer in the rest of his
book, the first part (many readers go no further) seems to put the
book into the unbiblical realm of the "name it claim it" movement. Consider
the opening words...."
As I state in the second paragraph,
the problem is not that Christians use the words of the Bible to pray to our
God whom they follow. I'm concerned about the promises made by the author
and marketing personnel. When people who don't understand Christianity are
persuaded to read the book and recite the words, they expect answers from a
God they don't really know. This follows the pattern of Buddhism and other
religions that attribute special power to the words in a prayer or mantra.
[See Dalai Lama
Celebrating the Medicine Buddha]. They, too, report positive answers
from their various deities who supposedly respond to their formula prayers.
Even Christians can be deceived by
the author's promise that this particular prayer -- repeated each day while
the book is reread each week -- will move God's hand in a special way. Human
nature has always sought that kind of of spiritual power and influence. Such
a suggestion alone can cause people to shift from thinking Biblically (based
on truth) to thinking dialectically (based on suggestions, group consensus,
and social relationships). That would affect how they understand God and His
Word. Remember
Psalm 50:21.
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