OH LORD, BLESS ME INDEED! (PRAYER OF JABEZ)

OH LORD, BLESS ME INDEED! (PRAYER OF JABEZ)

A Sermon on Seeking God's Divine Blessings

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10
"And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested."

Supporting Texts: Deuteronomy 28:1-2, Psalm 5:12, Malachi 3:10, Ephesians 1:3, James 1:17

INTRODUCTION
Jabez is one of the most remarkable figures in the Bible, not because of his achievements but because of his prayer. Though his name meant sorrow, he refused to accept a life of pain and limitation. Instead, he boldly asked God for divine blessings. His prayer was specific, passionate, and full of faith, and God granted his request.

Many believers today live below their divine potential because they do not fully seek or understand God’s blessings. Some think blessings are only material, while others assume they are automatic without prayer or obedience. However, Jabez teaches us that we must desire and ask for God's blessings.

Seeking divine blessings is not about greed or selfish ambition; it is about walking in the fullness of God’s purpose. When we are blessed, we can bless others, expand God's kingdom, and live a life of impact. This sermon will explore how we can position ourselves to receive and walk in God's blessings.

1. THE DESIRE FOR DIVINE BLESSINGS
Jabez had a strong desire for God’s blessings and was not afraid to ask.

a) Recognising the Need for God’s Blessings (Psalm 67:7)
The blessings of God distinguish a believer and make life meaningful.

b) God's Blessings Are for His Children (Galatians 3:9)
As believers, we are heirs of Abraham’s blessings through faith in Christ.

c) God Wants to Bless His People (Jeremiah 29:11)
It is God’s will for His children to prosper spiritually and physically.

d) Asking for Blessings is Scriptural (Matthew 7:7-8)
God encourages us to ask, seek, and knock for His blessings.

e) Biblical Example: Solomon asked for wisdom, and God blessed him with wealth and honour as well (1 Kings 3:5-13).

2. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE BLESSED INDEED?
Jabez did not just ask for blessings; he asked for blessings indeed, meaning overflowing, undeniable, and lasting blessings.

a) Blessings Go Beyond Material Wealth (Proverbs 10:22)
The true blessing of God brings joy and peace without sorrow.

b) Spiritual Blessings Are the Greatest (Ephesians 1:3)
Divine blessings include salvation, favour, wisdom, and divine protection.

c) Generational Blessings (Genesis 22:17-18)
When God blesses, the impact extends beyond one person t future generations.

d) God's Blessings Bring Supernatural Increase (Malachi 3:10)
The blessings of God open doors that human effort cannot.

e) Biblical Example: Isaac sowed in famine and reaped a hundredfold because of God's blessing (Genesis 26:12-14).

3. POSITIONING YOURSELF FOR GOD’S BLESSINGS
To experience God's blessings, we must prepare ourselves spiritually and practically.

a) Walking in Obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Obedience to God’s word is the key to receiving His blessings.

b) A Lifestyle of Holiness (Psalm 84:11)
God blesses those who walk uprightly before Him.

c) Faith and Expectation (Hebrews 11:6)
Without faith, it is impossible to receive divine blessings.

d) Being a Giver (Luke 6:38)
Those who give generously are positioned for divine blessings.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham obeyed God and became the father of nations, enjoying divine blessings (Genesis 12:1-3).

4. HINDRANCES TO DIVINE BLESSINGS
Despite God’s desire to bless, some things can block His blessings in our lives.

a) Sin and Disobedience (Isaiah 59:2)
Sin separates us from God’s blessings.

b) Lack of Faith (James 1:6-7)
Doubt prevents us from receiving from God.

c) Unforgiveness and Bitterness (Matthew 6:14-15)
A heart full of unforgiveness can hinder divine blessings.

d) Laziness and Lack of Diligence (Proverbs 10:4)
God blesses the works of our hands, not idleness.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites missed out on many blessings because of their disobedience and unbelief (Numbers 14:22-23).

5. WALKING IN CONTINUOUS BLESSINGS
Jabez did not only receive blessings; he maintained them by staying connected to God.

a) Maintain a Relationship with God (John 15:5)
Staying in God’s presence ensures continual blessings.

b) Live a Life of Thanksgiving (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Gratitude opens doors for more blessings.

c) Be a Blessing to Others (Acts 20:35)
God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others.

d) Seek First the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33)
Prioritising God’s kingdom brings all other blessings.

e) Biblical Example: Job remained faithful to God despite trials, and in the end, God blessed him abundantly (Job 42:10-12).

CONCLUSION
Jabez’s prayer teaches us that we should desire and ask for God’s blessings. He did not accept the sorrowful destiny given to him but cried out to God, and God answered him. In the same way, we must pray with faith, position ourselves rightly, and walk in obedience to receive divine blessings.

God's blessings are not just for personal gain but for His glory and the benefit of others. When we seek His blessings with the right heart, we will experience supernatural increase, joy, and impact. May the Lord bless you indeed and make your life a testimony of His goodness!

PRAYER POINTS

1.  Oh Lord, bless me indeed and enlarge my territory.

2.  Every hindrance to my blessings, be removed in Jesus’ name.

3.  Father, let Your favour surround me like a shield.

4.  Lord, help me walk in obedience so that I can enjoy divine blessings.

5.  May my life be a channel of blessings to others.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1.  I declare that you are stepping into a season of divine blessings!

2.  Every limitation in your life is broken in Jesus’ name!

3.  The Lord will bless you beyond your expectations!

4.  You shall walk in favour, prosperity, and supernatural increase!

5.  From today, your life shall be a testimony of God’s abundant blessings!

May the Lord bless you indeed and grant all your requests in Jesus' name! Amen!

OH LORD, ROLL THAT STONE AWAY!

OH LORD, ROLL THAT STONE AWAY!

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 28:1-6
"And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it." – Matthew 28:2

Supporting Texts: Mark 16:3-4, John 11:39-44, Isaiah 45:2, Zechariah 4:7, Psalm 24:7-10

INTRODUCTION:
When Jesus was buried, a great stone was placed at the entrance of His tomb to prevent any interference. However, on the third day, an angel came down from heaven and rolled away the stone, ensuring that nothing could hinder the resurrection. This stone represents obstacles, delays, hindrances, and powers working against divine destiny. Just as God sent an angel to roll away the stone for Jesus, He will also remove every barrier in your life and destiny.

1. THE MEANING OF THE STONE AT THE TOMB
The stone that sealed Jesus’ tomb represents different kinds of obstacles in our lives.

a) The Stone of Hindrance
It prevents people from stepping into their divine purpose (1 Thessalonians 2:18).

b) The Stone of Oppression
It signifies burdens, struggles, and afflictions (Isaiah 10:27).

c) The Stone of Delay
It symbolises stagnation and postponed breakthroughs (Daniel 10:12-13).

d) The Stone of Death
It represents situations that seem hopeless and irreversible (Ezekiel 37:3).

e) Biblical Example:
Daniel faced the stone of opposition when he was thrown into the lions’ den, but God sent an angel to shut the lions’ mouths (Daniel 6:17-22).

2. THE ROLE OF THE ANGEL IN ROLLING AWAY THE STONE
God sent divine help to remove the obstacle at Jesus’ tomb.

a) Angelic Assistance in Difficult Times
God dispatches angels to intervene when human effort is not enough (Hebrews 1:14).

b) The Angel Came at the Right Time
Divine help arrives at God’s appointed season (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

c) The Angel Used Supernatural Power
The resurrection power of God breaks every limitation (Ephesians 1:19-20).

d) The Angel’s Presence Terrified the Guards
Every enemy monitoring your progress will be scattered (Psalm 68:1).

e) Biblical Example:
Peter was imprisoned, but an angel came and rolled away the chains, setting him free (Acts 12:7-10).

3. WHY MUST THE STONE BE ROLLED AWAY?
Until the stone is removed, resurrection and breakthrough cannot manifest.

a) It Grants Access to Divine Promises
Jesus had to come out of the tomb for the fulfilment of prophecy (Luke 24:6-7).

b) It Destroys the Plans of the Enemy
The chief priests and Pharisees thought the stone would stop the resurrection, but they failed (Matthew 27:62-66).

c) It Brings Supernatural Acceleration
The moment the stone was rolled away, destiny took a new turn (John 20:1-9).

d) It Reveals the Power of God
The removal of the stone was a sign of divine victory (Romans 8:11).

e) Biblical Example:
Joshua faced the obstacle of Jericho’s walls, but when they shouted in faith, the wall fell down (Joshua 6:20).

4. HOW TO COMMAND YOUR STONE TO BE ROLLED AWAY
Every believer has the authority to call for divine intervention.

a) Engage in Prophetic Declarations
Speak God’s word over every closed door (Job 22:28).

b) Pray with Fervency
Persistent prayers remove spiritual barriers (Luke 18:1-8).

c) Exercise Your Faith
Faith moves mountains and removes obstacles (Mark 11:23).

d) Invoke Angelic Assistance
God’s angels are sent to help believers in times of need (Psalm 34:7).

e) Biblical Example:
Paul and Silas prayed and praised God, and the prison doors were supernaturally opened (Acts 16:25-26).

5. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE STONE IS REMOVED?
When the stone is rolled away, supernatural events take place.

a) Resurrection Power is Released
Every dead thing in your life will come alive (John 11:43).

b) A New Beginning is Established
The removal of the stone signified the beginning of a new season (2 Corinthians 5:17).

c) Divine Speed and Restoration Manifest
Delayed blessings will be released suddenly (Joel 2:25).

d) The Glory of God is Revealed
Jesus’ resurrection proved God’s supremacy over all forces (Romans 6:4).

e) Biblical Example:
The Red Sea was an obstacle for Israel, but God rolled it away and made a path for them (Exodus 14:21-22).

CONCLUSION:
The stone that was meant to keep Jesus in the grave could not stop Him. Today, every obstacle hindering your progress must be rolled away. Just as an angel came down to remove the stone, God will send supernatural help to shift every limitation in your life. It is time to declare by faith: "Oh Lord, roll that stone away!"

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, send Your angels to roll away every obstacle in my life.

2. Every satanic stone covering my destiny, be removed now!

3. Lord, let the resurrection power of Christ work in my life.

4. I command every delay in my life to be broken in Jesus’ name.

5. Every demonic force monitoring my progress, be scattered by fire!

6. Father, let every closed door be supernaturally opened for me.

7. I receive angelic assistance for my breakthrough today.

8. Lord, accelerate my destiny and remove every limitation.

9. I decree that every dead thing in my life shall rise again.

10. Father, I walk in the fullness of my resurrection blessings.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. The stone blocking your testimony is rolled away now!

2. Every closed door in your life is opening supernaturally.

3. You will rise from every grave of affliction and limitation.

4. Divine helpers will locate you and shift your situation.

5. Every plan of the enemy against your breakthrough is nullified.

6. You will walk in newness of life and divine acceleration.

7. No force can hold down what God has prepared for you.

8. The power of resurrection will manifest mightily in your life.

9. Every delay in your destiny is broken right now!

10. From today, you shall walk in unstoppable victory!

May every stone of hindrance in your life be permanently removed, and may you experience supernatural breakthroughs in Jesus’ name! Amen!

OH LORD, ROLL AWAY MY REPROACH

TITLE: OH LORD, ROLL AWAY MY REPROACH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 69:18–20 
Supporting Texts: Psalm 42:10, Psalm 74:10 (NKJV)

INTRODUCTION 
Reproach is a mark of shame, disgrace, or disapproval that weighs heavily on the life of an individual. It could come in different forms, such as failure, disappointment, barrenness, sickness, or lack. Just like Hannah and the people of Israel, many in the Bible cried out to God to roll away their reproach, and God heard and delivered them. In this message, we will explore how God can remove reproach from your life and turn it into a testimony of joy and victory.

1. UNDERSTANDING REPROACH
 
a) The Nature of Reproach
Reproach can manifest in several ways: personal failure, public humiliation, or a lingering issue that others use to mock or belittle you. It can become a burden that affects your relationship with God, your self-esteem, and even your ability to progress in life.

b) The Spiritual Weight of Reproach
Reproach is not just a physical or emotional issue; it has spiritual implications. It can act as a barrier that prevents you from fully experiencing God’s blessings and favour.

Biblical Example: Hannah’s Barrenness (1 Samuel 1:6) 
Hannah’s inability to bear children brought her reproach, as Peninnah mocked her year after year. Her barrenness became a source of great sorrow, but she took her case to God, and He rolled away her reproach by giving her Samuel.

2. CAUSES OF REPROACH

a) Sin and Disobedience
Sometimes reproach is the result of sin or disobedience to God’s word. When we stray from God’s path, reproach may come as a consequence. However, repentance and seeking God’s mercy can lead to restoration.

b) Delay and Unfulfilled Promises
There are times when reproach arises from long delays in receiving God’s promises, such as in the case of Sarah and Elizabeth, who both faced years of barrenness. These delays can cause people to question God’s faithfulness, leading to shame and discouragement.

Biblical Example: Sarah’s Delay (Genesis 21:6-7) 
Sarah’s barrenness was a cause of reproach, but God removed her shame by fulfilling His promise and giving her Isaac in her old age.

3. CRYING OUT FOR DIVINE INTERVENTION

a) The Power of Persistent Prayer 
When faced with reproach, it is crucial to cry out to God in persistent and fervent prayer. God is faithful and attentive to the cries of His children. Just as He heard the cries of the Israelites in Egypt and delivered them, He will hear and respond to your prayers.

b) Praying for God’s Mercy and Favour
Reproach is lifted when God extends His mercy and favour. No matter the situation, God’s intervention can turn around the most hopeless circumstances and bring honour out of shame.

Biblical Example: The Woman with the Issue of Blood (Mark 5:25-34) 
The woman suffered reproach due to her long-standing illness. But when she cried out in faith and touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, her reproach was rolled away instantly.

4. GOD ROLLS AWAY REPROACH BY HIS POWER 

a) God’s Power Over Human Limitations
No matter the source or duration of reproach, God has the power to roll it away. His divine intervention can turn impossible situations into testimonies. Just as He parted the Red Sea for the Israelites, God can remove the obstacles standing between you and your breakthrough.

b) The Testimony of Rolled Away Reproach 
When God rolls away reproach, the testimony is undeniable. Like the Israelites, who experienced the removal of Egypt’s shame after crossing the Red Sea, you will have a testimony that glorifies God and silences your adversaries.

Biblical Example: Israel at Gilgal (Joshua 5:9) 
After 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, God declared to Joshua that He had rolled away the reproach of Egypt from the Israelites. Their wandering was over, and they were now positioned to enter the Promised Land.

5. FAITH IN GOD'S PROMISES REMOVES REPROACH

a) Standing Firm on God's Word
To overcome reproach, you must stand firm on God’s promises. His Word is full of assurances of victory, restoration, and divine help. Even in the face of shame, continue to believe that God’s promises will be fulfilled in your life.

b) Trusting God's Timing 
God has a perfect time to roll away your reproach. Like Job, who endured great suffering and mockery, but eventually received double for his trouble, you must trust that God’s timing is perfect and that He will honour His Word in your life.

Biblical Example: Elizabeth's Miracle (Luke 1:24-25) 
Elizabeth, who was barren and faced public shame, rejoiced when God blessed her with John the Baptist. She declared that the Lord had taken away her disgrace among the people.

CONCLUSION 
Reproach is a burden that no one should carry. Whether it’s from personal failure, delay, or the mockery of others, God has the power to roll it away. When you cry out to Him in faith, He will intervene, turning your shame into glory and your sorrow into joy. As you hold fast to His promises, you can be assured that He will remove every reproach and bring you into a place of honour and fulfilment.

PRAYER POINTS 
1. Father, by Your mercy, roll away every reproach in my life in Jesus' name. 

2. Lord, remove every delay and stagnation causing reproach in my life. 

3. Father, restore me to a place of honour and glory in the name of Jesus. 

4. Lord, silence every voice of mockery and shame in my life. 

5. Father, deliver me from every situation bringing reproach to my family. 

6. Lord, release Your divine intervention in every area of my life where I am facing reproach.
 
7. Father, I declare that my reproach shall be turned into a testimony. 

8. Lord, grant me the grace to stand firm on Your promises, even in difficult times. 

9. Father, let Your favour surround me and lift me above every shame in Jesus' name. 

10. Lord, give me a new song of praise as You roll away my reproach.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS 
1. I declare that every reproach in your life is rolled away in Jesus’ name. 

2. You will no longer experience shame, for God has turned your mourning into dancing. 

3. Every delay in your life shall be broken, and God’s promises shall be fulfilled. 

4. I decree that mockers will witness your breakthrough and be silenced in Jesus’ name. 

5. You are moving from reproach to honour, from shame to glory. 

6. The Lord will restore everything that has brought reproach to your life. 

7. I declare that your testimony of deliverance shall shock those who mocked you. 

8. You will rejoice like Hannah, for God has answered your prayers and rolled away your reproach. 

9. Your life will be a testimony of divine intervention and supernatural turnaround. 

10. From this day forward, reproach will never have a place in your life again in Jesus’ name.

OH LORD, ARISE AND TAKE AWAY MY REPROACH

Title: OH LORD, ARISE AND TAKE AWAY MY REPROACH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:  Luke 1:24-25 
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 54:4, Psalm 69:7, 1 Samuel 1:6, Zephaniah 3:19

INTRODUCTION
Reproach refers to shame, disgrace, or disapproval that results from unmet expectations, failures, or unfavourable circumstances. In the Bible, several individuals experienced reproach due to barrenness, sickness, or other challenges that made them feel out of place. However, God's intervention always brings an end to reproach. Just as Elizabeth praised God when He took away her reproach by giving her a child in her old age (Luke 1:25), we too can cry out to God to remove the shame and reproach from our lives. Today, we shall seek divine intervention to take away any form of reproach hindering our lives.

1. UNDERSTANDING REPROACH

a) What is Reproach?
Reproach is anything that causes shame, dishonour, or disgrace. It could be a long-standing problem or situation that brings ridicule or makes people question the promises of God in our lives. 
- Examples of reproach in the Bible include barrenness (1 Samuel 1:6) and societal rejection (Isaiah 54:4).

b) The Emotional and Spiritual Impact of Reproach
Reproach can weigh heavily on a person’s mind and spirit, causing feelings of despair, depression, and isolation. It can also create doubt in God’s promises and purpose. 
- Psalm 69:7: "For I endure scorn for your sake, and shame covers my face."

c) God's Desire to Remove Reproach 
God never intends for His children to live in reproach or shame. He has a plan of restoration, and he desires to replace shame with honour. 
- Isaiah 54:4: “Fear not; you will no longer live in shame... The shame of your youth and the sorrows of widowhood will be remembered no more.”

2. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF DIVINE INTERVENTION OVER REPROACH

a) Hannah’s Story (1 Samuel 1:6-20)
Hannah faced reproach because of her barrenness, and Peninnah, her rival, mocked her relentlessly. Yet, Hannah took her burden to the Lord in prayer, and God answered her by giving her a son, Samuel. 
- 1 Samuel 1:19-20: "And the Lord remembered her... She conceived and gave birth to a son." 
- Lesson: God responds to persistent, heartfelt prayer and takes away reproach by giving us breakthroughs.

b) Elizabeth’s Story (Luke 1:24-25) 
Elizabeth lived with the reproach of childlessness for many years. When she finally conceived in her old age, she declared that the Lord had taken away her disgrace. 
- Luke 1:25: "The Lord has done this for me. In these days he has shown his favour and taken away my disgrace among the people." 
- Lesson: God’s timing may not align with our expectations, but His intervention is always perfect.

c) The Israelites' Reproach Removed at Gilgal (Joshua 5:9) 
After wandering in the wilderness for forty years, God told Joshua that He had "rolled away the reproach of Egypt" from the Israelites. They were now ready to enter the Promised Land. 
- Joshua 5:9: "This day have I rolled away the reproach of Egypt from off you." 
- Lesson: God rolls away reproach and positions us for new beginnings when we fully trust Him.

3. KEYS TO PRAYING FOR REPROACH TO BE REMOVED

a) Acknowledge the Problem (Psalm 25:16-18)
We must honestly acknowledge our reproach before God and confess any sin or failure that might have contributed to it. God is compassionate and merciful to those who turn to Him.

b) Seek God in Earnest Prayer (1 Samuel 1:10-11) 
Just as Hannah cried out to God in the temple, we too must persist in prayer until we see the hand of God removing our shame and granting us victory.

c) Believe in God’s Power and Timing (Romans 4:20-21)
Even when the reproach seems insurmountable, we must maintain faith in God’s ability to turn things around. Faith moves mountains, and it is often in the darkest hours that God works the greatest miracles.

d) Speak the Promises of God (Isaiah 41:10)
We should declare God's Word over our situation. His promises are powerful, and His Word will not return void (Isaiah 55:11). The promises of God are tools in the hands of the believer to overcome reproach.

4. THE RESULTS OF GOD TAKING AWAY REPROACH

a) Honour in Place of Shame (Isaiah 61:7)
When God takes away reproach, He replaces it with honour and double blessings. Instead of disgrace, He brings restoration and causes His people to experience joy and fulfilment.

b) Joy and Celebration (Psalm 126:1-3) 
The removal of reproach brings joy and celebration. When the Lord turned the captivity of Zion, their mouths were filled with laughter. God's intervention causes a great turnaround.

c) Restoration and New Beginnings (Zephaniah 3:19-20) 
When God removes reproach, He brings about restoration and new opportunities. The pain of the past is forgotten, and a season of newness begins. 
- Zephaniah 3:19: "I will deal with all who oppress you. I will rescue the lame; I will gather the exiles. I will give them praise and honour in every land where they have suffered shame."

CONCLUSION 
Reproach may seem like an unending season of shame, but God specializes in turning disgrace into honour. Just as He removed the reproach of Hannah, Elizabeth, and the Israelites, He can take away your reproach and give you victory. As you pray and trust in Him, He will arise and intervene in your situation, transforming it for His glory.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, arise and take away every reproach in my life in Jesus’ name.

2. Lord, silence every voice of accusation and mockery against me.

3. Father, roll away the shame of failure and give me supernatural success.

4. Lord, visit me like You visited Hannah and Elizabeth and give me a testimony.

5. Father, turn my mourning into dancing and my sorrow into joy.

6. Lord, remove every mark of shame and disgrace from my life.

7. Father, by Your power, restore everything I have lost in Jesus' name.

8. Lord, break every cycle of delay and reproach in my life.

9. Father, grant me the grace to stand in faith until my reproach is taken away.

10. Lord, let my life become a testimony of Your goodness and faithfulness.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. I declare that every reproach in my life is rolled away by the power of God.

2. I decree that this is my season of divine intervention and restoration.

3. I prophesy that God will arise and silence every voice of mockery against me.

4. I declare that my testimony will cause those who mocked me to rejoice with me.

5. I decree that honour and favour are replacing every shame in my life.

6. I prophesy that my days of disgrace are over, and I am stepping into my season of joy.

7. I declare that God’s timing for my breakthrough is perfect, and it is happening now.

8. I decree that no weapon formed against me shall prosper, and no shame shall befall me.

9. I declare that my reproach is turned into a platform for God’s glory in my life.

10. I decree that I will experience double blessings for every shame I have endured.