Day 2: Thursday 2/19

READ: James 1:5-8

But anyone who needs wisdom should ask God, whose very nature is to give to everyone without a second thought, without keeping score. Wisdom will certainly be given to those who ask. Whoever asks shouldn’t hesitate. They should ask in faith, without doubting. Whoever doubts is like the surf of the sea, tossed and turned by the wind. People like that should never imagine that they will receive anything from the Lord. They are double-minded, unstable in all their ways.

REFLECT

James pivots from trials to wisdom—because we need wisdom most when navigating empire. The world offers its own wisdom: climb the ladder, protect yourself, play the game. But God's wisdom is different, and God gives it generously. The problem isn't God's willingness to give; it's our double-mindedness, our attempt to hedge between God's way and the world's way. We can't have both.

RESPOND

Ask God for wisdom about something specific today. Then notice: are you genuinely waiting for God's answer, or already planning to do what feels safest or easiest?

PRAY

Generous God, we try to split the difference between your kingdom and this world's kingdoms. Give us wisdom and the courage to trust what you show us. Amen.