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.

James 1:5

NKJV

 

 

     What do you think of when you think of wisdom? Maybe lost secrets or forgotten knowledge? For all human history, wisdom has been seen as something of tremendous value. The ancients believed wisdom was the key to life, even eternal life. They were actually correct. But life-giving wisdom cannot be found in some lost, dusty book, nor will it be found in the depths of space, or within us, as many religions and philosophies insist. Wisdom necessary to understand life and lead us to life is not information to be discovered. It must be given to us by the Author of life.

     Proverbs 9:10 says “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Life changing, life giving wisdom comes only from God. Finding it begins when I acknowledge the One True God, the God of the Bible, the Creator of the Universe.

     James says to anyone who “lacks wisdom…ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach.” God doesn’t dismiss us because we are not deserving. He won’t walk away because we aren’t worthy. God has promised that those who sincerely come to Him for wisdom will receive it. 

     There are many reasons one may wish to pursue wisdom from God. Some seek wisdom to better themselves or to achieve success. But the greatest reason for seeking wisdom from God is to learn to seek His kingdom and His righteousness. We need God’s wisdom and truth to navigate life and stay on the narrow path that leads to life. This will lead us to the ultimate success—eternal life.

     When the first Christian martyr, Stephen, was living out his faith people were drawn to him. The church adored him. His enemies hated him. But no one could refute him. Why? The Scripture says “they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke” (Acts 6:10). Stephen was so captivated by the Spirit of God in his life he was able to confound all his detractors. God’s wisdom empowered him to remain faithful and endure his enemies’ attacks as he preached to, and even prayed for, those who killed him. Steven’s faith, powered by God’s wisdom, led him to eternal life with Christ.

     It's the wisdom of God that reveals my need for salvation. It’s His wisdom that points me to the cross of Jesus. It’s His wisdom that keeps me hungering and thirsting for righteousness. It’s His wisdom that keeps me faithful when following Jesus is difficult. This kind of wisdom from God is where I find the power to grow in faith and overcome the struggles of life. And as I trust in God’s wisdom, I will come to understand exactly why “happy is the man who finds wisdom” (Prov. 3:13).

      Are you facing doubts, fears, temptations, or an important decision? Have you asked God for wisdom to pursue His will and enjoy His goodness in this? If so, trust that God will give you the wisdom you need. If not, ask God for His wisdom and wait expectantly for Him to give it!