Wisdom

Pete Kersker - Aug 18, 2026

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).

James, as we saw yesterday, was writing to believers who were "scattered among the nations", encouraging them to persevere through "trials of many kinds." Our perseverance through these tests of our faith, James explained, will result in our maturity. This will make us "complete," attaining the whole measure of the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:13). While we are persevering through these trials, God offers to give us wisdom so we can navigate the difficult spiritual terrain that tests our faith.

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. (James 1:6-7 NIV)

God doesn't promise to take away the challenges we face in this life. In fact, Jesus told us that we will face these challenges (John 16:33). That's good, though. These challenges test our faith, burn off the doubts, and strengthen us much like a workout strengthens our physical bodies. These challenges can make us more mature as long as we trust God, listen to God, and let God lead us so we do what God is calling us to do in those circumstances. This is why we ask for wisdom from God. Or, we don't.

Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. (James 1:8 NIV)

How to you deal with "trials of many kinds" in your life?
Do you ask God for wisdom to navigate the difficulties? Why (not)?
How does God respond? Do you grow more mature as a result?