James encourages us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God. Seeking wisdom from God is undoubtedly a good practice, but considering the context of this scripture, James may be speaking more specifically about wisdom in the midst of trials. When we struggle to understand the purpose behind our hardships and wonder why God allows them, we are invited to ask Him for wisdom. Wisdom to navigate pain. Wisdom to endure troubles. Wisdom to see trials as opportunities—opportunities meant for our good from a good God.
However, James also emphasizes how we should ask: in faith, without doubting. This doesn’t mean we must be entirely free from doubt or questions. God knows our insecurities, our fears, our concerns. Why do we try to hide from the One who sees us so deeply? There is freedom in being fully known and fully loved. God desires to walk with us and be our God. That is the essence of the Gospel—the greatest rescue plan. Despite our sin, through the blood of Jesus, our fellowship with God the Father is restored. He is not intimidated by our questions or doubts. Instead, He invites us to humbly call out, “Yahweh, work within me. Give me faith.”
In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus tells the father of a possessed boy that all things are possible for the one who believes. The father’s response is raw and honest: “I believe; help my unbelief.” What was Jesus’ response to this vulnerability? Did He rebuke the man? No. Instead, He responded with healing. With patience and kindness. With grace and mercy beyond our comprehension. Because that is who He is—abounding in steadfast love for all who call on Him.
So do you lack faith? Ask God.
James describes those who struggle to ask in faith as double-minded—torn between the things of God and the things of the world. It’s a tug-of-war within the heart, mind, and soul. It reminds me of a saying: “You have too much of Jesus to enjoy the world, and too much of the world to enjoy Jesus.” How easy it is to lose focus, to drift, to wander. That’s why Colossians 3:2 tells us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. A divided heart and mind will always lead to stumbling in our faith.
This is why Scripture calls us to renew our minds (Romans 12:2). Our minds must be transformed through the Word of God and the Spirit’s work within us. Wisdom is freely given in response to a heart of faith. And faith itself is the outpouring of a renewed mind, empowered as we partner with the Holy Spirit within us.
Do you lack wisdom? Ask God. Do you lack faith? Ask God. Do you need a renewed mind? Ask God.
God delights in giving good gifts to His children. A prayer for more wisdom, deeper faith, and a renewed mind? Prepare for His answer: Yes and Amen.
From Talk Scripture: Ask God | James 1:5-8
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-god-james-1-5-8/id1786264764?i=1000686672425
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ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.