Asking for Wisdom from God (James 1:5–8)
When we lack wisdom, we are to ask God (James 1:5). Wisdom is the proper use of knowledge, and applying knowledge rightly enables us to overcome temptation. God gives wisdom without reproach—it is not a puzzle. When we ask, we come as a lesser to a greater. When we ask properly, we receive what we ask for (1 John 5:14–15).
We must therefore learn how to ask properly. We are not to ask so that we may spend it on our pleasures (James 4:3). We are to ask according to His will and not our own desires (1 John 5:14). We are also to ask apart from doubting (James 1:6–8).
Doubting is defined as a thorough judgment that intends to circumvent God’s standard. It is not simply wavering or having second thoughts (Matthew 14:31; 28:17). Instead, it seeks to gain from God based upon personal pleasure (James 1:6). The one who doubts will not receive what he asks (James 1:7). Such a person is double-souled, functioning out from emotions (James 1:8). He must draw near to God, cleanse his hands, and purify his heart (James 4:7).
Treating Others with Understanding (James 1:9–11)
The humble believer is to boast in his exaltation (James 1:9). Humility is a proper frame of mind in which one does not value himself above others. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (1 Peter 5:5). Therefore, we are to be of the same mind, associating with the humble (Romans 12:16).
False humility, however, is to be rejected. This includes self-imposed religion and neglecting the body (Colossians 2:23), along with the worship of angels or delight in false humility (Colossians 2:18).
Our exaltation relates to our position in Christ (Ephesians 4:8). Therefore, our boasting is to be in God and not in men (1 Corinthians 1:31), for boasting in arrogance is malignant evil (James 4:16).
The wealthy must also understand that their riches hold no true value (James 1:10–11). The rich man will fade in his pursuits. The love of money is a root of evil (1 Timothy 6:10), and those who determine to be rich fall into many temptations (1 Timothy 6:9). Contentment is required in both wealth and poverty, for what we have in Christ cannot be taken away (1 Peter 1:4). Our present sufferings do not compare to the glory to come (Romans 8:18). We are not to throw pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6). Instead, we are to care for brothers in need when we are able (1 John 3:17). Our giving is not to be out of compulsion, but from a cheerful heart (2 Corinthians 9:7).
The Process of Sin (James 1:12–15)
Overcoming Temptation
The one who overcomes temptation is blessed (James 1:12). Temptation is a solicitation to do wrong, revealing a lack in character. Overcomers will receive the crown of life (James 1:12). This victory is by faith and not by works, and especially not by the works of the Law.
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