Gaining Wisdom, Step 2: Study & Observe God’s Law

Therefore be careful to observe them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes, and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ Deuteronomy 4:6

Wisdom and understanding were highly prized in the ancient Near East, both in the social and political areas. In Deuteronomy 4:1-6, Moses instructs the people of Israel to study and observe God’s Law. If the people did so, the nation of Israel would be known as a great nation because its people had wisdom and understanding.

A person who takes the time to study God’s law, learn from it, and obey it will be known as a wise person. James echoes the connection between learning and observing God’s law with the exhortation to “be doers of the Word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). James continues, saying the person who “is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does” (1:25). 

Gaining Wisdom, Step 1: Ask God

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5

The first step in gaining wisdom is to ask God for it. James is dealing with tests and trials believers face. While enduring the trial, the Christian is exhorted to ask God for wisdom, knowing that God will give it. “Ask” is in the present tense, which means that we should ask for it not only once, but repeatedly. If God gives wisdom, why ask repeatedly? Each trial, test, and experience requires different aspects of wisdom. By asking God for wisdom and instruction in each situation He brings into our lives, we show our dependence on God and acknowledge His authority over us.