Ask God For Wisdom
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God . . .
James 1:5
The Webster dictionary, defines wisdom as "the ability to discern inner qualities and relationships; insight; good sense; judgment." It denotes the capacity to understand something and to act upon that understanding. In Ephesians 5:15, Paul urged: "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise." The Psalmist declares "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Psalm 111:10) and this declaration is repeated in Proverbs 1:7. God acted in wisdom in creation and wisdom is a gift He wants to bestow on His creation made in His image: "For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her." (Proverbs 8:11).
James got right to the point. "If you lack wisdom...ask God...and it will be given." But the asking has requirements: "ask, believing that you will receive." Wisdom is a gift from God as seen in Ephesians 1:17-18. Human wisdom based on our experience is not alone sufficient to meet life's storms. Wisdom provides the necessary discernment to weather the storms. And when we ask God, believing, we will receive the wisdom (discernment and judgment) we need.
Wisdom also differs from knowledge. We can gain much knowledge, accumulate it from various ways of learning as we study and seek. Wisdom, on the other hand, helps us do the right thing as we face moral dilemmas and deal with other challenges of life. God promises the wisdom we need to face the dilemmas and decisions that come our way.
How is my praying for wisdom? Do I seek God's guidance in the decisions and affairs of life? Am I troubled and undecided? Simply pray for wisdom, believing. God wants to grant us the gift of wisdom, and He stands ready to pour it out on humble hearts that seek discernment. We do not need to be storm battered and double-minded in life. God's wisdom can give us a solid anchor and a clear mind, one filled with His wisdom.
Bible Reading
James 1:5-8.
Prayer
Dear Lord God, I know that wisdom will continue to grow as a product of right choices and godly responses, and as I apply Your Word to my daily circumstances. I ask You to help me make good use of the wisdom You give me every day. In Jesus name. Amen.
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