CWW WEEK 29 - Spiritual Discernment - Day 5
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Devotional: Asking God for Wisdom
Based on James 1:5
Scripture:
“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)
When You Don’t Know What to Do
Life is full of choices—some small, some life-changing. Whether we’re facing a career decision, a relationship issue, a parenting challenge, or a crisis of faith, we all reach moments when we simply don’t know what to do. In these moments, James 1:5 offers both encouragement and instruction: Ask God for wisdom.
This verse is beautifully simple, yet deeply profound. James doesn’t say, “Figure it out on your own,” or, “Try harder to be wise.” Instead, he reminds us of our dependence on God and invites us to approach Him with honesty and trust. If you lack wisdom—and who among us doesn’t at times?—ask God.
It’s an invitation to bring our uncertainty to the One who sees the full picture. God knows the beginning from the end. He understands every detail, every motive, every consequence. And more than that, He delights in guiding His children.
A God Who Gives Generously
One of the most comforting truths in this verse is the character of God it reveals: He gives generously to all without finding fault. That means God is not stingy with His wisdom. He doesn’t play favourites. He doesn’t shame us for not knowing what to do. He doesn’t sigh in disappointment when we come to Him yet again for help.
Instead, He welcomes us with open arms. He is a generous Father who wants to pour wisdom into our lives—wisdom that is practical, timely, and deeply rooted in His truth. This is not the wisdom of the world, which is often self-centred or short-sighted. God’s wisdom is pure, peace-loving, considerate, and full of mercy (James 3:17).
And He gives it freely. Not because we deserve it, but because He is good.
What Is Wisdom, Really?
Wisdom is more than just knowing things. It’s not the same as intelligence or education. In Scripture, wisdom is the ability to live rightly according to God’s will. It’s seeing life from God’s perspective and responding in a way that honours Him.
Wisdom helps us choose patience over impulse, humility over pride, faith over fear. It equips us to navigate conflict with grace, speak truth with love, and endure trials with hope. That’s why James places this verse within a chapter about facing trials and testing. When life feels uncertain or painful, we especially need wisdom to know how to respond.
Sometimes we want a quick fix or a detailed plan. But often, God’s wisdom comes as a quiet nudge, a deeper peace, or a fresh perspective. It comes through Scripture, through prayer, and sometimes through wise counsel from others. It’s not always flashy, but it is always faithful.
Ask in Faith, Walk in Trust
The verses following James 1:5 urge us to ask in faith, not doubting God’s willingness to give. This doesn’t mean we can’t come to Him with questions or concerns—but it does mean we trust in His goodness, even when the path ahead isn’t crystal clear.
Asking for wisdom isn’t just a one-time prayer in a crisis. It’s a daily posture of humility and dependence. It’s saying, “Lord, I need You. Lead me today. Help me see as You see.” And it’s choosing to act on the wisdom He gives, even when it stretches us or challenges our preferences.
God is not silent. He is a speaking God who promises to guide us. When we ask for wisdom, we are not bothering Him—we are honouring Him. We are recognising that He is the source of all truth and the best counsellor we could ever have.
Reflection Questions:
- Where in your life right now do you feel the need for God’s wisdom?
- Have you asked God for wisdom in prayer—and are you listening for His answer?
- What might it look like to trust God’s wisdom even when it challenges your own understanding?
Closing Prayer:
Dear Lord, Papa God,
Thank You for Your promise to give wisdom freely when we ask. You are kind, patient, and full of grace. I bring before You the areas in my life where I feel unsure and ask for Your guidance. Help me to listen carefully for Your voice, to trust Your leading, and to walk in Your ways. Grow in me a heart that seeks You first and values Your wisdom above all else.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Have a great day today with Jesus.
Graham Hood.
Church Without Walls.
