Don’t Doubt God’s Wisdom

Key Verse to Read and Treasure

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 his ways.—James 1:5-8 (ESV)

For Insight

It is the wisdom of God to provide all we need through his Word and it was the Holy Spirit leading James as he wrote this encouraging letter to the saints of God everywhere.

James knew it wasn’t necessary to instruct believers what to do about exact challenges, struggles, and trials, except to point the believer to pray for God’s wisdom.

When going through fiery trials and struggles, believers often use one of two methods to receive a word from the Lord. Some allow their Bible to fall open to any page, close their eyes and put their finger on the page, and after opening their eyes read what they have landed on. Others will search the Scriptures for their problem to see what God has to say about it although sometimes being disappointed and troubled when they don’t see that exact issue in the Scriptures.

Both ways will always get us a sound word from the Lord, but James suggests another way.

James says if we are faced with trials of any variety and we don’t know what to do or how to go about it, he says we should pray. And God, who always gives wisdom generously will give us the wisdom and understanding we need.  But he also says we can’t pray for wisdom and then doubt that God will give it. We have to pray for wisdom with fullness of faith, confident and assured that God will give us the wisdom we need for our situation. God will give us wisdom how to move forward or proceed. James’ caution is the person who is double-minded (first thinking God will give wisdom, then doubting that the will) will not receive the wisdom they need. Instead, they will continue to be tossed back and forth in their mind, they won’t have the stability of thought or peace in their soul. They will think one thing one day and something else the next.

Our heavenly Father wants his children to enjoy the full benefits of being in covenant relationship with him and having his wisdom during trials and challenges is part of that.   

God you will not withhold your wisdom or peace from anyone who prays for wisdom during their trials or problems. This is every believer’s comfort and assurance. Thank you, Lord. Amen

For Application:

When you need wisdom about trials or problems have you used the approach James writes about here?    

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