Wisdom to Know the Difference

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. 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. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
James 1:5-8 (NIV)

Is it difficult for you to ask for help? You aren’t alone. Admitting that you need guidance reveals an uncomfortable truth- you are vulnerable. But, God knows that already. 

He knows that you can’t survive on your own, you don’t have all the answers and that you don’t have all the solutions- you are created to depend on Him. And, God wants you to seek His wisdom in every situation. 

But you can’t call God on the phone or send Him an email. So how does He give you the guidance, the wisdom, you need?

Wisdom is not just intellectual knowledge but applied, practical, hands-on living. It’s knowing how to manage your finances, have discipline in your work, reconcile your relationships, and grow in your calling. Seeking God’s wisdom requires three things: admitting, asking and believing.

Admitting 
You will not consistently make wise decisions until you recognize the source of wisdom. “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6). Admit that you don’t have what it takes to make the wise decisions you must make. Then come to the One who does, God. 

Asking
What would you ask God for if He said to you, “Ask for whatever you want, I’ll give you anything”? Would you ask for wealth? Influence? Power? God did ask that question to a young king by the name of Solomon, and this was his response to God’s offer: “Give me wisdom and knowledge” (2 Chronicles 1:10). 

You can do what Solomon did—you can ask for something bigger than wealth, fame or power. Any time you want wisdom you can ask for it, in fact, God wants you to. James 1:5 declares, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Believing
You don’t have to be a king like Solomon to need wisdom and you don’t have to be a king to receive it. God promises to give you wisdom so believe Him. And start to look and listen closely in any circumstance. God is surely there and you will receive the wisdom you seek. 

As you make choices each day, admit that you need wisdom and connect with the One who promises to give it to you. 

Prayer: Father, I am thankful that you lavish wisdom on me. Soften my heart to see where I’m foolish and strengthen my heart to follow Your truth. Because of Jesus I pray, Amen.