James 1:5
Verse
Context
Rejoicing in Trials
4Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.5Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.6But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any of you lack wisdom - Wisdom signifies in general knowledge of the best end, and the best means of attaining it; but in Scripture it signifies the same as true religion, the thorough practical knowledge of God, of one's self, and of a Savior. Let him ask of God - Because God is the only teacher of this wisdom. That giveth to all men liberally - Who has all good, and gives all necessary good to every one that asks fervently. He who does not ask thus does not feel his need of Divine teaching. The ancient Greek maxim appears at first view strange, but it is literally true: - Αρχη γνωσεως της αγνοιας ἡ γνωσις. "The knowledge of ignorance is the beginning of knowledge." In knowledge we may distinguish these four things: - 1. Intelligence, the object of which is intuitive truths. 2. Wisdom, which is employed in finding out the best end. 3. Prudence, which regulates the whole conduct through life. 4. Art, which provides infallible rules to reason by.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
English Version omits "But," which the Greek has, and which is important. "But (as this perfect entireness wanting nothing is no easy attainment) if any," &c. lack--rather, as the Greek word is repeated after James's manner, from Jam 1:4, "wanting nothing," translate, "If any of you want wisdom," namely, the wisdom whereby ye may "count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations," and "let patience have her perfect work." This "wisdom" is shown in its effects in detail, Jam 3:7. The highest wisdom, which governs patience alike in poverty and riches, is described in Jam 1:9-10. ask-- (Jam 4:2). liberally--So the Greek is rendered by English Version. It is rendered with simplicity, Rom 12:8. God gives without adding aught which may take off from the graciousness of the gift [ALFORD]. God requires the same "simplicity" in His children ("eye . . . single," Mat 6:22, literally, "simple"). upbraideth not--an illustration of God's giving simply. He gives to the humble suppliant without upbraiding him with his past sin and ingratitude, or his future abuse of God's goodness. The Jews pray, "Let me not have need of the gifts of men, whose gifts are few, but their upbraidings manifold; but give me out of Thy large and full hand." Compare Solomon's prayer for "wisdom," and God's gift above what he asked, though God foresaw his future abuse of His goodness would deserve very differently. James has before his eye the Sermon on the Mount (see my Introduction). God hears every true prayer and grants either the thing asked, or else something better than it; as a good physician consults for his patient's good better by denying something which the latter asks not for his good, than by conceding a temporary gratification to his hurt.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If any of you lack wisdom,.... This shows that the perfection before spoken of is not to be understood as in this life, since the apostle immediately supposes lack of wisdom in them; for this is not said in a form of doubting, whether they wanted it or not, but rather as supposing, and taking it for granted that they did; and in the first, and primary sense of the words, it intends wisdom to behave aright under temptations or afflictions. Saints often want wisdom to consider God as the author of them, and not look upon them as matters of chance, or impute them merely to second causes; but to regard them as coming from the hand of God, and as his hand upon them, as Job did; who does not ascribe his calamities to the thieving Chaldeans and Sabeans, to the boisterous wind, and to the malice of Satan, but to God: they want wisdom to observe the sovereignty of God in them, and bow unto it, and be still, and know that he is God, who does all things well and wisely; and likewise to see and know that all are in love, and in very faithfulness, and for good; as well as to see his name, to hear his rod, and him that has appointed it, his voice in it, his mind and meaning, and what he designs by it; as likewise to learn the useful lessons under it, and particularly to take the cross well, to bear it patiently, and even to count it all joy, and reckon it to be right, necessary, and useful: it requires much wisdom to learn all this, and act up to it. Moreover, this may be applied to all other cases, in which wisdom is wanted; men want wisdom to conduct them in the common affairs of life, and especially the people of God; for the children of the world are wiser in their generation, for themselves and posterity, and in the management of worldly affairs, than the children of light; and also to observe the providences of God, and the footsteps of Providence, and to follow them; and likewise to make a right use of providences, and behave suitably under them, and not be lifted up too much in prosperity, nor be cast down, and too much distressed in adversity; but to consider, that the one is set against the other, and both work together for good. Saints have need of wisdom in things spiritual; they want more grace, which is the truest wisdom, and a larger knowledge of the Gospel, which is the wisdom of God, the hidden wisdom of God; and they lack wisdom to know how to walk towards them that are without, and towards them that are within, so as becomes the Gospel of Christ: and as this is more or less the case of everyone let him ask of God wisdom; of God the Father, who is the only wise God, who has abounded in creation, in providence, and, above all, in redemption and grace, in all wisdom and prudence; and of his Son Jesus Christ, who is the wisdom of God, and has all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in him; and of the Spirit of God, who is a Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ, and all divine things: that giveth to all men liberally; God is the giver of all good things, in nature, providence, and grace; every good and perfect gift comes from him, and therefore he, and he only, should be applied unto: and he gives to "all men" the bounties of his providence; and to all that ask, and call upon him in sincerity, the riches of his grace; even to Jews and Gentiles, high and low, rich and poor, greater or lesser sinners; all which he gives "liberally", readily, and at once, freely and cheerfully, and largely and abundantly; not grudgingly, sparingly, and with a strait hand, but with an open one, and in a very extensive manner. And upbraideth not; with former sins and transgressions, with former miscarriages and misconduct; or with former kindnesses, suggesting that he had given largely already, and his favours had been despised or abused; or he had been treated with ingratitude and neglect; in which manner sometimes men put off those that apply unto them, but so does not God; wherefore every word here used is encouraging to go to God for wisdom: yea, it follows, and it shall be given him; God has said it, Christ has promised it, and the apostle might, with certainty, say it after them, and all experience confirms the truths of it; See Mat 7:7.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5-8 James introduces wisdom as a recurring theme (cp. 3:13-18).
James 1:5
Rejoicing in Trials
4Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.5Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.6But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Aaron's Failure
By Duncan Campbell18K1:00:51FailureEXO 32:7JOS 14:6PRO 9:10MAT 3:2MAT 11:28ACT 4:12JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of his daughter giving a testimony before leaving for Nepal. She attributes her faith and presence at the meeting to her parents, which humbles the speaker. The speaker then questions if others can say the same about their parents and challenges the audience to be men and women of God. He shares a story of a Christian worker who bought a television set despite the negative influence it can have on young people. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects God's presence and warns against dishonoring God's name in the presence of enemies.
Deeper Waters - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill12K25:54Depth of Relationship with GodSanctificationMAT 5:8JHN 1:1JHN 14:6JHN 17:17ROM 12:22CO 6:171TH 4:3HEB 12:14JAS 1:51PE 1:16Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the profound depth of the Gospel of John, particularly focusing on the themes of sanctification and the nature of Jesus as both divine and human. He argues that the Gospel is not merely a collection of four accounts but a singular narrative revealing the essence of Christ. Ravenhill highlights the importance of understanding Jesus' prayer in John 17, which he considers a sacred moment that showcases the need for believers to seek wisdom and sanctification in their lives. He challenges the church to move beyond superficial spirituality and to embrace a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the necessity of separation from worldly influences. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to holiness and a deeper understanding of God's majesty.
Trusting God Again Like a Child
By Francis Chan7.3K1:12:55Strength in LeadershipChildlike FaithFaith1SA 14:61SA 30:6PSA 46:1ISA 40:31MAT 18:3MRK 10:15PHP 4:13HEB 11:1JAS 1:51PE 5:7Francis Chan emphasizes the importance of trusting God with childlike faith, urging leaders to genuinely love their congregations and seek God's presence in their ministry. He reflects on the challenges faced by pastors today, including criticism and the pressure to perform, while encouraging them to strengthen themselves in the Lord as David did. Chan shares personal experiences of prayer and reliance on God, illustrating how faith can lead to miraculous outcomes. He calls for a return to the simplicity of faith, where believers can experience God's power and presence in their lives. Ultimately, he reminds the audience that true ministry is about loving others and being filled with God's Spirit to serve effectively.
Prayer as a Way of Walking in Love - a Personal Journey
By Francis Chan6.2K1:05:25PSA 27:4ISA 58:6JAS 1:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of dwelling in the presence of God, seeking His beauty, and abiding in Him as the ultimate source of strength and peace. It highlights the need to prioritize prayer and intimacy with God over performance, expectations, and pressures from others. The speaker shares personal experiences of answered prayers, moments of deep connection with God, and the power of walking in love through prayer.
Book of James
By Keith Daniel5.8K1:13:50Bible ReadingJAS 1:2JAS 1:5JAS 2:3JAS 2:7JAS 2:10JAS 5:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to God and not being enticed away by worldly distractions. He highlights the book of James as a powerful cry to those who have drawn away from their relationship with God. The speaker urges listeners to draw near to God and return to a tender walk with Him. The sermon emphasizes that anything other than a vital relationship with God is agony and encourages individuals to come back to God and avoid straying from the truth.
The Danger of Pharisaism
By Zac Poonen5.7K52:59PharisaismMAT 6:33MAT 23:3LUK 1:1LUK 12:42LUK 12:452CO 3:9JAS 1:5In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Luke chapter twelve, verse forty-five, which talks about a slave who becomes abusive towards other slaves because he believes his master will be delayed in returning. The preacher emphasizes the importance of ministers giving people the spiritual nourishment they need at the right time, rather than using their position to criticize and condemn others. He warns against comparing oneself to others and despising them based on external appearances or behaviors. The preacher also highlights the danger of creating a culture of guilt and condemnation within churches, instead of offering hope and assurance of God's love and forgiveness. He references the parable of the laborers in the vineyard to illustrate the idea that even those who have wasted much of their lives can still give themselves to God and receive His grace.
Jude #8 - Lessons and Conclusions
By Chuck Missler4.8K1:15:56Jude1CO 2:13HEB 4:7JAS 1:52PE 1:21JUD 1:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of a three-dimensional image and its analogy to the word of God. He explains that a hologram, with its ability to be viewed from different angles, represents the depth and substance of the scriptures. The speaker also highlights how the Bible, when viewed in natural light, may appear as a collection of stories and ideas, but when illuminated by the laser of God's truth, it reveals its true meaning and resolution. He further emphasizes that the scriptures are diffused and distributed throughout the 66 books, just like a communication engineer would do to counter hostile jamming. The speaker concludes by mentioning his fascination with the concept of time and how it relates to the vastness of the universe as observed through a telescope.
Do You Really Believe in Miracles
By David Wilkerson4.6K41:47MiraclesPSA 46:1PSA 121:1PRO 3:5MAT 6:33MAT 14:13JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 or 4,000 people with just a few loaves of bread and fish. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and remembering the miracles that God has done in our lives. The speaker encourages the audience to put themselves in the shoes of the disciples and imagine the awe and wonder they must have felt witnessing such a miraculous event. He also highlights the disciples' lack of understanding and faith, despite witnessing these miracles firsthand. The sermon serves as a reminder to trust in God's provision and to remember the miracles He has performed in our lives.
(God's Sanctuary) 03 Men of His Own Heart 2
By Bakht Singh4.0K52:05SanctuaryPSA 27:8PSA 34:8PSA 118:8PRO 3:5MAT 6:33MAT 7:7JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking God's help constantly, even in the face of opposition and persecution. He uses the example of David, who learned to talk with the Lord freely and seek His guidance. The speaker highlights that we cannot depend on human help for victory, but must rely on the Lord. He also emphasizes the need to continually seek God's help and not come to Him empty-handed. The sermon encourages believers to learn from David's example and seek God's guidance in all situations.
Prayer
By Manley Beasley3.6K35:51Prayer1KI 18:41MAT 6:6MAT 7:7JHN 14:131TH 5:17JAS 1:5JAS 5:17In this sermon, Dr. James Stewart emphasizes the importance of having both a vision and a strategy from God. He believes that God not only gives us a vision but also provides a strategy to accomplish it. Dr. Stewart shares his experience of interviewing potential missionaries and emphasizes the significance of prayer in their lives. He believes that a strong prayer life is essential for staying true to the message and method of God's work. Dr. Stewart concludes by sharing a story of a man who prayed for God's guidance and received a revelation about his mission.
(Basics) 29. Praise Brings Deliverance
By Zac Poonen3.4K13:032CH 20:22PSA 50:6PSA 50:15PSA 50:23MAT 6:33JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of praising God in difficult situations. He shares the story of King Jehoshaphat and how he led the people of Israel to victory by praising God instead of relying on their own strength. The speaker highlights seven key points that Jehoshaphat acknowledged in his prayer to God: God's sovereignty, past victories, God's promises, the fact that they are God's inheritance, their weakness, their lack of wisdom, and their trust in God. The speaker encourages listeners to apply these principles in their own lives and to rely on God's power and promises when facing challenges.
Elijah (Time for Renewal Conference)
By Carter Conlon3.4K51:24ElijahPSA 23:1PRO 11:30MAT 6:33MAT 16:181CO 1:18JAS 1:51PE 2:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the introductory message of the gospel, which is to trust in God and believe that He will provide. He uses the story of Elijah and the widow as an example of someone who received this message and experienced miraculous provision. The preacher emphasizes the importance of treating the little things with care and recognizing the awesomeness of representing God. He also prays for the speaker who will deliver the next message and asks for an anointing and a powerful impact on the listeners.
Apostle's Doctrine - Part 3
By G.W. North2.5K1:20:55Apostles DoctrinePSA 119:18MAT 4:18ROM 8:26ROM 8:36EPH 1:18EPH 4:1JAS 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a son to God. He refers to scripture, specifically the Roman lesson in the famous 8th chapter, to explain that nothing in this world can come to fame unless it goes through death. The preacher encourages the audience to be moved by the Word of God and warns against being unmoved or unaffected by it. He also highlights the concept of the body of Christ, emphasizing that believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of God.
(Godly Courtship) 05 Godly Courtship - Question & Answer
By Denny Kenaston2.4K1:12:17CourtshipPSA 119:105PRO 3:5PRO 4:23ROM 12:21CO 15:33EPH 5:15JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses George Mueller's four-point outline for discerning God's will. The first point is to listen to the Spirit of God in our own hearts. The second point is to consider the circumstances and what they are saying. The third point is to seek guidance from our authorities. And finally, the fourth point is to consult the Word of God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of evaluating character and encourages young people to spend time in fellowship to better understand each other's character.
(2006 Conference) 12. the Balance of Truth-3 (Bible Study)
By Zac Poonen2.4K59:20PRO 11:1MAT 28:18MRK 16:151CO 14:241TI 3:5JAS 1:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of finding balance in various aspects of the Christian life. It discusses the need for balancing evangelism with discipleship, ensuring that both aspects are given proper attention. The speaker highlights the significance of not only converting individuals but also making them into godly disciples who obey all that Jesus commanded. The message stresses the importance of being a witness for Christ in everyday life, both in evangelism and in building up fellow believers through discipleship.
(Christian Leadership) the Danger of Phariseism
By Zac Poonen2.3K50:05MAT 6:33MAT 20:12LUK 12:42LUK 12:452CO 3:9JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of feeding people with the word of God rather than beating them with it. He references Luke chapter 12, verse 45, which warns against mistreating others while waiting for the master's return. The speaker emphasizes the need for ministers of the word to have the heart of a father and mother, being patient and long-suffering in feeding people spiritually. They caution against using God's word to judge and make others feel uncomfortable, instead urging a focus on understanding the proper proportion and importance of different truths in scripture. The sermon concludes with a challenge to consider the cost of rebuking sin and the willingness to pay that price in order to deliver others from worldliness.
Look Who's Here
By Vance Havner2.2K09:421KI 18:362KI 6:15PSA 121:7PRO 3:5DAN 3:25ACT 3:61CO 2:5EPH 6:12HEB 11:1JAS 1:5This sermon draws inspiration from various biblical stories like the three Hebrew children who stood firm in their faith, Elijah on Mount Carmel demonstrating the need for divine intervention, and Elisha's unwavering trust in God's protection. It emphasizes the importance of complete reliance on God, even in the face of challenges, and the necessity of seeking His intervention rather than relying on human efforts.
7) Wisdom for Sisters (Kannada)
By Annie Poonen2.2K1:09:31PRO 9:1MAT 5:8MAT 7:24MAT 11:29MAT 18:21JAS 1:5JAS 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking divine wisdom for our earthly lives, distinguishing between knowledge and wisdom. It highlights the need for obedience to God's word as the foundation of true wisdom, encouraging even those who cannot read to be wise through obedience. The sermon delves into the qualities of a wise woman, focusing on purity, peace, gentleness, mercy, and wholeheartedness, all rooted in God's wisdom. It concludes with a prayer for God's grace to be godly women who build their homes and the church.
The Best Way to Say Thank You
By Jim Cymbala2.1K33:30ThanksgivingPSA 116:12ISA 53:6MAT 11:28JHN 3:16ACT 2:38EPH 2:8JAS 1:5In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of taking time to appreciate and praise God. He encourages the congregation to lift their hands and say hallelujah or praise God. The pastor shares a story from the musical "Carousel" to illustrate the regret of not expressing love and gratitude. He reminds the audience that the best way to thank God is to accept and receive everything He offers, as love is fulfilled by the reception of the gift. The pastor also highlights the significance of not refusing God's gifts, as it breaks His heart.
6 Hindrances to Prayer
By Jack David Daniels2.1K45:59Prayer LifePSA 34:3MAT 6:33EPH 4:26EPH 6:121TH 5:17JAS 1:51PE 3:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of spending time with God in prayer. He references the story of Peter and how he denied Jesus three times because he didn't pray. The preacher warns against being selfish in our purposes and desires, as it hinders our prayer life. He encourages listeners to cleanse their homes of sinful practices and to prioritize God in their lives. The sermon is supported by Bible verses from James and Psalms.
Coming to the Throne of Grace
By Bob Jennings2.0K46:58PSA 51:17PSA 145:18PRO 3:5ISA 55:6HEB 4:12HEB 4:14JAS 1:5JAS 4:8REV 3:21This sermon emphasizes the importance of coming to the throne of God, highlighting the need for wisdom that surpasses material wealth and the significance of dealing with eternal matters and the condition of our souls. The passage from Hebrews 4:12-16 is explored, focusing on the living and active Word of God, the great high priesthood of Jesus, and the invitation to boldly approach the throne of grace for mercy and help in times of need.
The Proud Have Hid a Snare
By Bob Jones Sr.2.0K13:32PSA 140:5PRO 3:5ROM 15:41CO 10:132CO 1:3EPH 6:11JAS 1:5In this sermon, Dr. Bob Jones Sr. emphasizes the importance of being aware of the enemies we face when following God's path. He highlights the need to rely on the Bible for guidance, wisdom, and power. Dr. Jones warns against playing with sin and falling into the devil's traps, using the example of a pastor who was lured away from his calling. He encourages Christians to focus on preaching the gospel and getting people saved, as this is a powerful weapon against the devil's schemes.
The Flow of Materialism
By Francis Schaeffer1.8K00:00MaterialismRelativismPSA 119:105PRO 14:12ECC 1:2ISA 40:8JHN 14:6ROM 1:251CO 15:32COL 2:82TI 3:16JAS 1:5Francis Schaeffer addresses the pervasive influence of materialism and relativism in both Western and Eastern thought, arguing that these worldviews lead to a lack of meaning and moral clarity. He highlights the tension faced by those who reject a Christian perspective, as they grapple with the absurdity of existence while still seeking purpose and significance. Schaeffer critiques the reliance on experience over reason in modern society, suggesting that this shift has resulted in a moral vacuum where absolutes are abandoned. He warns that without a foundation in truth, humanity is left with a chaotic and meaningless existence, ultimately calling for a return to the Christian worldview for true answers to life's dilemmas.
10 Reasons for Unanswered Prayer
By George Verwer1.8K52:27Unanswered PrayerISA 65:1ISA 65:12MAT 5:22JAS 1:5In this sermon, a young preacher asks for advice after delivering his first sermon. An old man approaches him and gives him three pieces of advice. The first advice is to read every word, acknowledging that the young preacher did not do well in his delivery. The second advice is to read it better, using the analogy of a cliff being battered by waves but remaining standing. The third advice is to trust in God's timing, using the example of Daniel's prayers being heard from the first day, even though he did not see immediate results. The sermon encourages listeners to trust God even in the dark and to continue praying with faith.
Becoming Strong in Spirit
By Alan Martin1.7K00:00MaturityPRO 13:20MAT 4:4MAT 22:9LUK 2:521TI 4:15JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the idea of compelling others to come to the word of God. He acknowledges that he may have misunderstood how this should be done, but believes that it is important to let people know the good news and encourage them to change their minds and believe. The speaker emphasizes the importance of submitting to God and living according to His will, as this is how we are transformed into the image of His Son. He encourages listeners to have a drive to know and understand God, and to prioritize seeking wisdom and walking with the wise.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any of you lack wisdom - Wisdom signifies in general knowledge of the best end, and the best means of attaining it; but in Scripture it signifies the same as true religion, the thorough practical knowledge of God, of one's self, and of a Savior. Let him ask of God - Because God is the only teacher of this wisdom. That giveth to all men liberally - Who has all good, and gives all necessary good to every one that asks fervently. He who does not ask thus does not feel his need of Divine teaching. The ancient Greek maxim appears at first view strange, but it is literally true: - Αρχη γνωσεως της αγνοιας ἡ γνωσις. "The knowledge of ignorance is the beginning of knowledge." In knowledge we may distinguish these four things: - 1. Intelligence, the object of which is intuitive truths. 2. Wisdom, which is employed in finding out the best end. 3. Prudence, which regulates the whole conduct through life. 4. Art, which provides infallible rules to reason by.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
English Version omits "But," which the Greek has, and which is important. "But (as this perfect entireness wanting nothing is no easy attainment) if any," &c. lack--rather, as the Greek word is repeated after James's manner, from Jam 1:4, "wanting nothing," translate, "If any of you want wisdom," namely, the wisdom whereby ye may "count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations," and "let patience have her perfect work." This "wisdom" is shown in its effects in detail, Jam 3:7. The highest wisdom, which governs patience alike in poverty and riches, is described in Jam 1:9-10. ask-- (Jam 4:2). liberally--So the Greek is rendered by English Version. It is rendered with simplicity, Rom 12:8. God gives without adding aught which may take off from the graciousness of the gift [ALFORD]. God requires the same "simplicity" in His children ("eye . . . single," Mat 6:22, literally, "simple"). upbraideth not--an illustration of God's giving simply. He gives to the humble suppliant without upbraiding him with his past sin and ingratitude, or his future abuse of God's goodness. The Jews pray, "Let me not have need of the gifts of men, whose gifts are few, but their upbraidings manifold; but give me out of Thy large and full hand." Compare Solomon's prayer for "wisdom," and God's gift above what he asked, though God foresaw his future abuse of His goodness would deserve very differently. James has before his eye the Sermon on the Mount (see my Introduction). God hears every true prayer and grants either the thing asked, or else something better than it; as a good physician consults for his patient's good better by denying something which the latter asks not for his good, than by conceding a temporary gratification to his hurt.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If any of you lack wisdom,.... This shows that the perfection before spoken of is not to be understood as in this life, since the apostle immediately supposes lack of wisdom in them; for this is not said in a form of doubting, whether they wanted it or not, but rather as supposing, and taking it for granted that they did; and in the first, and primary sense of the words, it intends wisdom to behave aright under temptations or afflictions. Saints often want wisdom to consider God as the author of them, and not look upon them as matters of chance, or impute them merely to second causes; but to regard them as coming from the hand of God, and as his hand upon them, as Job did; who does not ascribe his calamities to the thieving Chaldeans and Sabeans, to the boisterous wind, and to the malice of Satan, but to God: they want wisdom to observe the sovereignty of God in them, and bow unto it, and be still, and know that he is God, who does all things well and wisely; and likewise to see and know that all are in love, and in very faithfulness, and for good; as well as to see his name, to hear his rod, and him that has appointed it, his voice in it, his mind and meaning, and what he designs by it; as likewise to learn the useful lessons under it, and particularly to take the cross well, to bear it patiently, and even to count it all joy, and reckon it to be right, necessary, and useful: it requires much wisdom to learn all this, and act up to it. Moreover, this may be applied to all other cases, in which wisdom is wanted; men want wisdom to conduct them in the common affairs of life, and especially the people of God; for the children of the world are wiser in their generation, for themselves and posterity, and in the management of worldly affairs, than the children of light; and also to observe the providences of God, and the footsteps of Providence, and to follow them; and likewise to make a right use of providences, and behave suitably under them, and not be lifted up too much in prosperity, nor be cast down, and too much distressed in adversity; but to consider, that the one is set against the other, and both work together for good. Saints have need of wisdom in things spiritual; they want more grace, which is the truest wisdom, and a larger knowledge of the Gospel, which is the wisdom of God, the hidden wisdom of God; and they lack wisdom to know how to walk towards them that are without, and towards them that are within, so as becomes the Gospel of Christ: and as this is more or less the case of everyone let him ask of God wisdom; of God the Father, who is the only wise God, who has abounded in creation, in providence, and, above all, in redemption and grace, in all wisdom and prudence; and of his Son Jesus Christ, who is the wisdom of God, and has all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in him; and of the Spirit of God, who is a Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ, and all divine things: that giveth to all men liberally; God is the giver of all good things, in nature, providence, and grace; every good and perfect gift comes from him, and therefore he, and he only, should be applied unto: and he gives to "all men" the bounties of his providence; and to all that ask, and call upon him in sincerity, the riches of his grace; even to Jews and Gentiles, high and low, rich and poor, greater or lesser sinners; all which he gives "liberally", readily, and at once, freely and cheerfully, and largely and abundantly; not grudgingly, sparingly, and with a strait hand, but with an open one, and in a very extensive manner. And upbraideth not; with former sins and transgressions, with former miscarriages and misconduct; or with former kindnesses, suggesting that he had given largely already, and his favours had been despised or abused; or he had been treated with ingratitude and neglect; in which manner sometimes men put off those that apply unto them, but so does not God; wherefore every word here used is encouraging to go to God for wisdom: yea, it follows, and it shall be given him; God has said it, Christ has promised it, and the apostle might, with certainty, say it after them, and all experience confirms the truths of it; See Mat 7:7.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5-8 James introduces wisdom as a recurring theme (cp. 3:13-18).