Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that you would bless me indeed, and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from evil, that it not be to my sorrow! God granted him that which he requested.
I might find a little sweetness in the answer to my prayer, but much pain in the grief it caused me. You remember how Israel in the desert asked for meat to eat, and God gave them quails; but while the meat was still in their mouths the wrath of God came upon them. Ask for the meat, if you like, but always add this: “Lord, if this is not a real blessing, do not give it to me. Oh, that  you would truly bless me!” 