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. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James 1:5-8 Aren't you glad God has given us His Word? The Bible is layered with mystery
waiting to be discovered as we study by the leading of God's Holy Spirit. At the
same time, the Bible speaks directly, in detail, to so many of the practical aspects of life. God's Word is true for everybody, for all generations, and He is not hesitant or reluctant to honor it. God is faithful to uphold this incredible gift—His Word!

In the above verses, we see one of these practical aspects addressed: How do we receive from God? We ask of God, acknowledging need. I think God has called us to be realistic, to be honest. It's clear that He wants us to approach Him with our needs. God promises that when we ask we will receive and that our joy will be made full. Not that we'll get a fraction of what we asked for, but in full!

The Word states it rather plainly. We don't have because we don't ask or we ask with wrong motives (James 4:2-3). James 1:5 says that God gives generously, without reproach. He's not reluctant. He is waiting for us to boldly ask, "Father, may I have . . ." He's not going to scold us for requesting. He is expecting us to approach Him according to the systems He has set forth in His Word.

This is just one reason it is so important to maintain fellowship with the Lord. When you are close to someone, you don't have any trouble asking of him or her, but when there's distance, it just gets weird. We need to stay near to the Lord, asking Him for all we need so that we can live the abundant life that is God's will for us—life that glorifies God and draws all men to Him.

Press on . . . and ask!
Pastor Jeff