If We Ask, He Will Give It

James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

This verse in and of itself can be applied to any situation that requires wisdom in our response or decision making. However, in the specific context of dealing with trials, and God working patience into our lives, it is of utmost importance that we go to, and lean on, God for wisdom on how to walk in the midst of trying times. Our propensity for sinful responses and behavior will oftentimes cause us to react in ways that dishonor the Name of Jesus, if we are not careful to step back and seek God whenever trials squeeze us. God's desire is that we approach Him with boldness, in Christ, to seek what only He can provide for us, by the leading of His Spirit. Far too often we lean on our own understanding, or seek the guidance of others, before turning to the Lord. We try our hand at taking care of a situation, then turn to God as a last resort, when our choices unravel things and make situations worse. God makes it very clear in His Word that He will not reject our humble requests for wisdom; but instead will give us as much as we need, without reproach. Our Lord wants us to rely on Him completely, and invites us to draw near to Him, as we walk through difficult times. As patience does her work in us, God tells us to turn to Him for guidance and wisdom so that we do not make the wrong choices in our impatience. In the next devotional we will discuss how faith affects our ability to ask for, and receive, wisdom when we need it most. In the meantime, if we need wisdom, we must not hesitate to ask and patiently wait for God to give it.

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 7:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).