“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all of his ways.” — James 1:5-8
How often we have opposition or trials in our lives and try to handle them on our own. It’s easy to do because we love to fix our own problems and help others fix theirs. But, we need to remember not to rely on our own wisdom in doing this; we need the wisdom of God. When we’re faced with troubles, He will help us generously, without hesitation.
These verses remind us that when we ask God for wisdom (looking for spiritual insight) we need to be in faith (Hebrews 11:1). We must believe that He loves us, cares for us, and nothing is impossible for Him! He understands what we are going through. Indeed, He wants to help us in our pain, questions, problems, and lack of wisdom. God loves it when we come to Him with a teachable attitude. Relying on God, in faith, is what gives us stability in difficult times.
Don’t Doubt God
James also reminds us not to doubt God. If we doubt His goodness and promises, then our foundation becomes very unstable. One minute our life is like a calm sea and we rest in His promises; then, when the storm comes, we feel like God has completely forgotten us. We cannot swing back and forth between trusting God and then trusting our own abilities. Without a doubt, we’ll become double-minded and that makes us like the wave James spoke of. God does not give insight to such people.
So, how do we obtain wisdom? We obtain it when we are in the Word and in prayer. God’s wisdom is available to all and is given very generously to those who ask! There is only one condition — we need to ask in FAITH and not in DOUBT.
Christian, next time you are seeking wisdom in a trial, go to our King in faith. He will surely reward you with the wisdom you are seeking.
Trusting in His goodness,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor