Need Wisdom? - Ask!

“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” James 1:5-8

Once we move from generalities to specifics in our prayers, the Scriptures instruct us to “ask in faith.” A faithless prayer is like an arrow released from a slackened bow - it seldom hits its target.

Suppose your son asked you for a bicycle to ride to and from school. The bicycle was a genuine need and you were more than able to fulfill his request. The next day you purchased a bicycle and presented it to your son only to discover that he had bought a new pair of walking shoes to walk to school. “Son, why did you buy the shoes?” you inquire. “Well, dad, I just figured you wouldn’t get me a bike, so I bought the shoes.”

This is the way our actions appear to God when we do not ask in faith, relying on His provision. We must believe He will do what we ask. His answer may not meet our deadline. It may not be what we expected. But His response will always be according to His perfect wisdom, bountiful love, His power, and His sovereign plan. He will give us His best which is always for our highest good.

When you pray, pray in faith, sincerely relying on a faithful God, and expecting His perfect answer.

“And without faith it is impossible to please Him...” Hebrews 11:6