Journey of Prayer--Day 33

Wednesday, February 17

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. James 1:5-6

The verse above couldn't have come at a better time for me personally. Right now, my husband and I are in a place of asking for wisdom concerning some life decisions. We are asking for the Lord to pour his words into our hearts and minds so that we can walk in his ways. We want to hear him whisper to both of us, "This is the way, walk in it" (Isaiah 30:21).

Interestingly, as I was looking closely at this verse and praying over Mac and me, I noticed the word "without" was mentioned two times, one having to do with God, and the other having to do with us as believers.

First we see that when we ask, God promises to give to all generously, without reproach (without disappointment or disapproval). Meditate on this awesome truth for about ten seconds. God is a GIVING GOD...and he gives WILLINGLY, not begrudgingly. He wants to give to us! Again, it comes down to this, are we doing our part and asking God for his good will and his rich blessings in our lives?

Secondly, there is another "without", one that is a qualifier for you and me when we do ask: but he must ask in faith without any doubting. God specifically says one reason we will not receive anything from him is because we doubt. Do you struggle in this area? I know I do. BUT I DON'T WANT TO! I've been asking the Lord to grow me here. I want to believe fully in all of who God is. I must realize that "not doubting" is referring to not having any doubt in GOD and His perfect will, rather than not having doubt in the specific answer I want from him. I have the freedom to ask for anything and everything; but at the same time, I must be ALL IN with God, who is perfect, and knows what is best to give me.

So today, with my husband Mac, I'm fully focused on the God of Wisdom, the Good Shepherd, the Loving Father, and the God who knows the future. I must choose (and when doubt starts to creep in, I must choose again and again) to have a kind of faith in him that does not waver.

Today take this verse to heart and obey it, all the while believing in this promise: our God gives without reproach when we ask without doubt.

For further reading: Matthew 13:58; Luke 8:25

Dear Lord,

Help me to not be indecisive or doubtful about your words of truth. Please give me a longing for your ways above my own. Make my heart completely yours so I can receive Your generous gifts. Amen