To read the rest of A Journey through James 1, start HERE.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
After immediately starting off James 1 with trials and perseverance, verse 5 is a bit more comforting, isn’t it? Such is the ebb and flow of life. One day is daunting, the next much more enjoyable, and our great God is steadfast throughout it all. Do you often feel like you need more wisdom? I certainly do, and I would say it’s one of the things I pray for the most. In His goodness, God graciously invites us to ask for wisdom without restraint.
In 1 Kings 3:9, Solomon asked God to him “a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.” This request greatly pleased God, and He responded in verse 11-12, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth just for yourself… I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart.”
James 1:5 tells us that God will generously give us wisdom when we ask for it. Why? Because when we ask for wisdom, we’re desiring to walk in God’s will. Wisdom is knowledge directly from Him, as we learn from Proverbs 2:6, which says, “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Discernment doesn’t come from the world around us or even from within ourselves. It’s a gift from God above.
When Solomon asked for wisdom, he did so to lead God’s people well. He was not seeking his own advancement or comfort, and the Lord knew this. When we ask for discernment, it’s not for selfish gain but to draw closer to the heart and mind of God, which is why He’ll willingly lavish wisdom on those who ask. He wants to be in relationship with Him, to walk in step with Him, and to generously share His love with others. Because of Jesus, we can “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). Do you need wisdom today? You’re free to come before His throne and ask, and He will gladly give it to you.
Heather L. Myers 