A Faith That Works When Life Doesn’t: Part 2Sample

God Wants to Give You Wisdom

Are you going through a rough time right now? You’re not alone! People all over the world are feeling the effects of the pandemic, and it’s taken a toll on our mental, physical, and emotional health. 

The Bible tells us exactly what we should do when we don’t know what to do and we’re feeling the pressure to do the right thing.

“If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won't correct you for asking. But when you ask for something, you must have faith and not doubt. Anyone who doubts is like an ocean wave tossed around in a storm” (James 1:5-6 CEV).

God isn't holding back wisdom. He gives wisdom to anybody who asks for it.

Have you asked God to give you the wisdom to handle the challenges you’re facing? Have you asked him for wisdom on what to do about your job, your future, your kids, your health, or whatever you're struggling with? God will give you wisdom if you ask for it.

King Solomon, one of the richest and most successful men who ever lived, had everything he needed and everything you could possibly want in life. But he still asked God for wisdom. He knew that riches, power, and comfort meant nothing if he couldn’t make wise decisions. He wanted to honor God—who gave him everything he had—and so he asked for wisdom to know what to do and how to do it.

Wisdom helps you learn from any trouble you’re experiencing. It helps you decide what to do and how to move forward in a way that pleases God. He uses every challenge to develop you, not defeat you.

It may seem like the world is spinning out of control and circumstances keep changing day-by-day. Your stress, your fear, and your worry may be at an all-time high.

But now more than ever is the time to ask “what?” instead of “why?”

Ask God what he wants you to learn from your challenges and what he wants you to do. He has promised to give you his wisdom in generous portions.

Talk It Over

• What is problematic about relying on your own wisdom in times of trouble? How does it limit you?


• In what way does God expect you to ask for wisdom? Why is this approach so important?


• What do you need God’s wisdom for today? Take time to ask him for wisdom in the specific areas you are struggling with. Then, spend time in God’s Word so that he can reveal his wisdom to you.

This devotional © 2021 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.