James 1:5–6

Context

The Epistle of James is traditionally regarded as a letter written by James the brother of the Lord to "the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad" (James 1:1). The immediately preceding passage, James 1:2–4, tells readers to count it all joy when they fall into various trials, because trials produce patience, and patience makes a person perfect and complete. The present passage follows as an exhortation to anyone who, in reaching that completeness, "lack[s] wisdom." The verses that follow, verses 7–8, describe the one who doubts as "a double minded man" and warn that such a person should not think he will receive anything from the Lord.

Interpretation

• Wisdom as practical discernment: Many commentators understand the wisdom spoken of here not as academic knowledge but as discernment for living according to God's will in the midst of trials. On this view, the passage stands in continuity with the tradition of Old Testament wisdom literature such as Proverbs. The content of this wisdom is described further in James 3:13–18.
• Emphasis on God's character: The Greek word rendered "liberally" can also mean "unconditionally" or "simply." On the basis of this word and the phrase "upbraideth not," some readings emphasize that God gives willingly, without reproaching those who ask.
• Doubt as double-mindedness: Many commentaries do not take the doubt of verse 6 to mean intellectual questioning or inner struggle. Instead, they understand it as a divided loyalty that wavers between God and something else, citing the "double minded" man of verse 8 as support.

Questions of Application

There is no significant dispute among denominations over the interpretation of this passage. However, verse 6 is sometimes taken out of context to support the idea that "if you believe without doubting, you will receive anything." In response to such usage, some point out that the object of the request is wisdom, and that the same letter warns against those who "ask amiss" to consume what they receive upon their lusts (James 4:2–3). Critics of prosperity theology in particular stress this point. Another question frequently raised in pastoral settings is whether this passage implies that entertaining religious doubts or questions is itself sinful.

In the Korean Church

The passage is commonly cited as a basis for prayer seeking discernment before important decisions such as choosing a career path, finding employment, or marrying. It is also frequently used in quiet time (QT) readings and in sermons on "praying for wisdom."

Related Passages

• James 3:13–18
• Proverbs 2:6
• Matthew 21:21–22
• Luke 11:9–13
• 1 John 5:14–15