Asking for Wisdom: The Foundation of Godly Decisions

Series 4: Decisions & Wisdom
Anchor Scripture: James 1:5 (CSB)

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.” — James 1:5

Every day we make decisions. Some are small. Others carry long term impact. Yet many believers move through choices relying on instinct, pressure, or emotion rather than wisdom.

James 1:5 provides both invitation and assurance. If we lack wisdom, we are invited to ask. God does not shame the request. He gives generously.

What Is Wisdom?

Wisdom is not information. It is discernment rooted in reverence for God.

Proverbs 9:10 reminds us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. James 3:17 describes wisdom as pure, peace loving, gentle, and sincere. That description alone helps us evaluate our decisions. If the process is chaotic or pride driven, it may not be wisdom.

Why Asking Matters

God responds to pursuit. Matthew 7:7 encourages us to ask, seek, and knock. Many struggles in decision making come from consulting everyone but God first.

Asking positions the heart in humility. It says, I do not see clearly. Guide me.

Barriers to Wisdom

Pride convinces us we already know.
Haste pressures us to move too quickly.
Fear pushes us into urgency.

Proverbs 11:2 ties humility directly to wisdom. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that timing matters. Sometimes the wisest action is waiting.

Practical Steps to Seek Wisdom

1. Clarify the decision.
2. Search Scripture.
3. Invite godly counsel.
4. Allow time for discernment.
5. Look for peace that aligns with God’s character.

Psalm 119:105 describes God’s Word as a lamp for our feet. Often wisdom lights the next step, not the entire path.

Preparing for Trust

Next week we will explore trusting God in choices from Proverbs 3:5–6. Asking for wisdom is the beginning. Trusting God with the answer is the next step.

Reflection:

• Where do I need wisdom right now?
• What is shaping my decision more than Scripture?
• Have I truly asked God for direction?

Until next time, remember

Faith is not complicated.

It is practical.

Walk it out one step at a time.