“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5, NKJV)
Wisdom. That’s a word we don’t hear very much today. It means far, far more than just knowledge. In fact, the great Bible teacher, Dr. John MacArthur uses this definition of wisdom…
James’ Jewish audience recognized this as the understanding and practical skill that were necessary to live life to God’s glory. It was not a wisdom of philosophical speculation, but the wisdom contained in the pure and peaceable absolutes of God’s will revealed in His Word (cf. 3:13, 17) and lived out. Only such divine wisdom enables believers to be joyous and submissive in the trials of life.
MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2006). The MacArthur study Bible: New American Standard Bible. (Jas 1:5). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers.
Wisdom helps us know how to live for Christ in today’s world. Wisdom helps us make choices. Sadly, we live in the “information age” with the internet and smart phones, yet there is a dearth of wisdom in our world. In fact, each day that goes by seems to show a quickening descent into the unwise. For those of us who seek to live for the glory of God, we need to re-double our seeking of wisdom. It’s been a theme in my life and ministry this week. I have specifically asked prayer partners to pray that I would have wisdom this week about a couple of issues. I have also been approached this week by multiple friends who need wisdom to deal with various situations and/or decisions. It takes wisdom to be a faithful Christian. It takes wisdom to be a spouse or a parent or a sibling. It takes wisdom to be an employee. It takes wisdom to have a church. We need wisdom.
So, let’s do what the scripture says. Let’s start asking God for it with all of our hearts and seeking him. He will give us wisdom if we seek Him.
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