Week 2 - Hear from God | Day 9 - What Do I Choose?

SCRIPTURE - James 1:5-8

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. 6 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. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

OBSERVATION

James, the half-brother of Jesus, is the author of this passage. Remarkably, James didn’t believe in Jesus during His ministry but became a devoted follower after witnessing the resurrection. Later, he emerged as a key leader in the early church. In this letter, James encourages believers to turn to God for the wisdom they need, reminding us of His generous nature. However, he also warns about the dangers of doubt - how it can destabilize our faith and hinder our ability to receive from God.

APPLICATION

The opening verse of this passage is a favorite for many: “Need wisdom? Ask God, and He will give it to you!” It’s incredibly encouraging. But the verses that follow can feel a bit more challenging. Why the shift?

James is addressing a critical truth: when we ask God for wisdom but doubt - whether doubting that He will answer or questioning if what He says is right - we create inner conflict, which James describes as being tossed by rogue waves of the sea. Instead of finding peace in His guidance, we’re left wrestling with uncertainty and indecision.

Confidence in God’s wisdom is what brings stability. When we lack wisdom and ask for it, we need to trust what God reveals and act on it, knowing He is faithful and good. Let God’s wisdom be His wisdom, even if it’s not what we expect. Surrender your doubts to Him, and don’t let unanswered questions toss you around like waves in a storm. God is ready to guide you - you can trust Him to lead you well.

PRAYER

Are you facing an important decision and longing for God’s direction? Do you need insight and wisdom to navigate the next season of your family, career, or personal life? Bring those questions to God with confidence, trusting that He will guide you. When you follow His lead, you’ll never regret it.

"God, I need your wisdom today. (Take a moment to share your specific situation with Him.) I want to follow your will and do what pleases you. Help me to hear your voice clearly, trust your direction completely, and follow where you lead. I trust you. In Jesus’ name, amen."