“…Yes I will, no I won’t!
“I’ll tell you what I want, what I really really want,” is the opening line from the Spice Girl’s now 25 year old album “Wannabe.” That’s the problem James addresses in verses 6-8 of chapter 1 - some Christians just couldn’t decide what they wanted. James, (in the previous verse), has invited them to ask God for wisdom, however he follows that by saying:
James 1:6-8 [6] But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
They had a case of “…yes I will, er no I won’t.” They’re like the person in a restaurant who can’t make up their mind. “Will I have the steak or will I have the salmon?” The waiter can’t serve them until they decide. …It shows that behind all our choices lies the element of faith. We choose what we choose because we believe it’s the best option.
And faith is needed when coming to God for answers. The Christian who asks but doesn’t believe is half hearted in their approach. Truth is they’re not entirely persuaded that God’s answer is best for them. With another ear they’re listening to other wisdom. In chapter 3 James speaks of two types of wisdom. One he describes as earthly, unspiritual, demonic. The other, (God’s wisdom), is: pure; peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. (James 3:17)
The Christian who, (in answer to their prayer), receives the latter, (it agrees with the Word of God, and is accompanied by the peace of God), only to revert to the former, is being tossed about like the wind. They must choose. Their indecision, their lack of faith will not only rob them of God’s wisdom, but will steal away their peace of mind.
Perhaps you find yourself in need of wisdom today. James would encourage you to turn to God, to ask him what you should do, ask Him to help guide you through problem - whatever it is, but he would tell you to ask with faith. Believe!
Prayer: Lord when I come to you today, help me to come with a whole heart, trusting in your ability to guide me through my dilemma. Give me the courage to refuse every other voice contradicts your Word. Amen.