Most of us don’t struggle to trust God when life is going well. It’s when the renovation goes well over budget. It’s when we’re waiting for the medical test result. It’s when a relationship breaks down. It is in those moments that we just can’t make sense of life and what God is up to.
That makes James’ words to suffering believers all the more surprising:
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. (James 1:5)
Notice that James doesn’t tell us to pretend our trials are enjoyable, nor does he offer empty optimism. James gives us a perspective to adopt: God is at work through our trials. While He may remove our difficult circumstances, He often uses them to mature us.
This is why James points us to wisdom. When life is difficult, we need eyes to see what He is doing even when we can’t yet fully understand why He is doing it. And God gives that wisdom in abundance. He invites us to trust Him wholeheartedly rather than half-heartedly. As we rely on His wisdom rather than our own understanding, we discover that He Himself is enough.
Reflection
- Where do you need God’s wisdom the most today?
- If you’re facing difficulties, how might God be using them to deepen your trust and mature your faith?
This devotion is sent weekly to staff during school terms. It has been lightly edited for a general audience.
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