5If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
James 1:5 (ESV)
ASK GOD
Have you ever thought to yourself, “Is this wise?”
It’s a very valid question we often ask—when making big purchases, planning trips, navigating friendships, or deciding what food to eat. Some choices are small and seemingly insignificant, while others carry long-term impact. Either way, we often pause and wonder, “Is this the best thing to do?”
James 1:5 gives us a simple yet profound answer: Why don’t you just ask God?
One of the simplest commands in Scripture is also one of the most life-changing: ask God. James says if we lack wisdom, we should simply ask—because God gives generously. Not reluctantly. Not sparingly. Generously.
Think about that for a moment. The Creator of the universe—the same God who spoke galaxies into existence—invites you to bring Him your questions, your confusion, your decisions, and your needs. He promises not to scold you for asking. He won’t shame you for your uncertainty. Instead, He will give generously. What a picture of grace!
Now here’s the tension: if the invitation to ask God for wisdom is so clear, and if He promises to give generously, why do we often struggle to ask? Maybe it’s pride—we want to prove we can handle things on our own. Maybe it’s fear—what if God’s wisdom leads us somewhere uncomfortable? Maybe it’s doubt—we’re not sure if God really cares about the details of our lives.
In our heads, there are a million reasons not to ask, but James pushes us past all of them. He reminds us that God’s character isn’t stingy or reluctant. He delights to give His children wisdom when they ask.
It’s worth noting that James doesn’t say God will give us information. At the click of a button, you can learn how to fix a sink, change a tire, cook a gourmet meal, or even plan your retirement. There are blogs, podcasts, YouTube videos, and endless “expert” opinions on every topic under the sun. Information is easy to come by.
But wisdom is something far deeper. Information can tell you what to do, but wisdom helps you discern when and how to do it. Wisdom applies God’s truth to real-life situations. It takes knowledge and transforms it into righteous action. It helps you hold your tongue instead of stirring up division. It teaches you to forgive even when bitterness feels easier. It guides you to be patient when everything in life is pushing you faster.
Here’s the beauty of wisdom: it isn’t reserved for the super-spiritual. It’s not locked away behind a seminary degree or a certain number of years following the Lord. James says it is available to anyone who asks. That means you—right now—in whatever situation you’re facing.
But here’s the catch: wisdom doesn’t always come with the answer we want. Sometimes God calls us to things we would rather not do. Wisdom doesn’t always align with our instincts. But it always leads us closer to His heart.
So where do you need wisdom right now? Identify one specific area—family, work, finances, relationships—and bring it before God. Stop trying to figure it all out on your own. Stop carrying the weight of every decision as if it’s all on your shoulders. The God who knows the end from the beginning is inviting you to ask Him.
And when you do, trust His answer. It may not be what you expect, but it will be exactly what you need.
Sellers Hickman serves as College & Teaching Pastor at NorthStar Church and loves cheering on his Ole Miss Rebels. He and his wife, Hannah, live in Dallas, Ga. with their two daughters. He also serves as the chaplain for the KSU Men’s Basketball team.
