“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.” James 1:5 (NIV)
“If any of you lacks wisdom, " if we read that question rhetorically, we most likely can answer with a resounding “I do.” Not that we don’t have wisdom, but we can always seek more Godly wisdom. However, it can also be read as an invitation to self-reflection. What do we have, and what do we yet need? Where is our possession of Godly wisdom lacking?
Regardless of how you interpret the first part, rhetorical statement, or invitation, the scripture provides a solution: "Ask God.” He does not penalize or act judgmentally for our lack but generously gives to us.
We shouldn’t stop with this verse alone, though, the author has more to say:
“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.” (James 1:6-8)
We are to trust that God will give in the asking. We aren’t to be flip-floppers, thinking that God will give us wisdom one day and then giving up when it is not received immediately. My experience has always been wisdom takes a while to come.
For example, through prayer and self-reflection, the Spirit might reveal a bias or thought pattern that isn’t aligned with God’s righteousness. Perhaps it’s an attitude or belief you’ve carried for years. When you surrender this to God, He provides not only the wisdom to see clearly but also the strength to pursue transformation. This process often takes time, but commitment and trust in God’s guidance will lead to growth.
Even King Solomon, renowned as the wisest man recorded in the Bible, didn't receive wisdom passively. When God asked Solomon what he desired most, Solomon chose wisdom—not for personal gain but to lead God’s people well (1 Kings 3:9). God responded generously, granting him unparalleled wisdom alongside other blessings. However, Solomon’s wisdom wasn’t merely a divine gift—it was something he cultivated. Proverbs, attributed to Solomon, is evidence of his dedication to seeking, understanding, and sharing Godly wisdom throughout his life.
Solomon’s story reminds us that wisdom often grows through divine provision and human diligence. Like Solomon, we are called to ask God for wisdom, trust in His generosity, and persist in learning and applying that wisdom over time.
Generous Father, thank You for the invitation to ask You for wisdom without fear of judgment. We trust in Your promise to give generously to those who seek. Help us to be steadfast in faith, not doubting Your provision, even when the journey feels long. Reveal to us the areas where we lack and guide us by Your Spirit to pursue transformation. May we, like Solomon, desire Your wisdom above all and cultivate it with diligence. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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