December 30: Need wisdom? Ask for it.

My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect and complete, not deficient in anything. But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed around by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, since he is a double-minded individual, unstable in all his ways.  (James 1:2-8 — New English Translation)

Your faith is going to be tested, and this scripture says you should be happy about it! The trials you go through will force your faith to get stronger. Just like the training an athlete goes through to make his body strong, your spirit and your character will become strong and vigorous as you overcome tests and trials. And as you develop perseverance and strength, you will be able to face anything and come out on top! In other words, God is training us like soldiers in His army.

If you lack wisdom about some problem, or decision in your life, ask God for it. He will give it to you — that's what He promises! But when you ask, believe that He has given it to you, then go on with confidence and make the decision or meet the problem. Don't pray for God to give you wisdom and then get up off your knees with a worried look. God knows all things, has all wisdom, and He is glad to give you the discernment and wisdom you need.

These verses say that a man who doubts will receive nothing from God. He is double-minded the scripture points out. One moment he believes, the next be doesn't. He tries to trust in God, but doubts at the same time. He asks God for help, but then reasons that most probably nothing will happen. Doubt and double-mindedness is absolute poison for Christians. You cannot tolerate it in your life or mind. You must reject it and replace it with faith.