James 1:5

KJV

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

KJV (with Strong's)

{G1161} If any {G1536} of you {G5216} lack {G3007} wisdom {G4678}, let him ask {G154} of {G3844} God {G2316}, that giveth {G1325} to all {G3956} men liberally {G574}, and {G2532} upbraideth {G3679} not {G3361}; and {G2532} it shall be given {G1325} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all generously and without reproach; and it will be given to him.

Berean Standard Bible

Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

American Standard Version

But if any of you lacketh wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
James 1:5 offers profound encouragement to believers, asserting that God is the ultimate and unfailing source of wisdom for navigating life's complexities and trials. It assures those who perceive a deficiency in discernment or practical insight that God is eager to bestow wisdom generously, without reservation or reproach, upon anyone who humbly and faithfully asks Him. This verse serves as a cornerstone for understanding divine provision in the face of human inadequacy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** James 1:5 is strategically positioned within the opening exhortations of the epistle, immediately following a discussion on the purpose and benefit of enduring trials. James 1:2-4 emphasizes that trials, when met with patience, lead to spiritual maturity and completeness. However, the process of enduring trials often requires more than mere human fortitude; it demands divine insight. Therefore, James transitions seamlessly from the *experience* of trials to the *resource* needed to navigate them successfully: wisdom from God. The subsequent verses (James 1:6-8) then qualify *how* one should ask for this wisdom—in faith, without doubting—underscoring the importance of a right heart attitude in receiving God's gifts.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Epistle of James is addressed to "the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad" [James 1:1](/james/1-1 "James 1:1 - Greeting to the Scattered Tribes"), indicating Jewish Christians dispersed from Jerusalem, likely due to persecution (e.g., [Acts 8:1](/acts/8-1 "Acts 8:1 - Persecution in Jerusalem")). These believers would have faced significant hardships, including economic struggles, social ostracism, and internal conflicts within their communities. In such challenging environments, practical wisdom was not merely an intellectual pursuit but a vital necessity for survival, ethical living, and maintaining faith. Culturally, the concept of wisdom was highly valued in Jewish thought, as evidenced by the Old Testament's Wisdom Literature (e.g., Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job), which consistently pointed to God as the fount of true wisdom ([Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "Proverbs 2:6 - The Lord Gives Wisdom")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in James and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the **Sovereignty and Generosity of God** as the benevolent giver of all good things, a theme echoed in [James 1:17](/james/1-17 "James 1:17 - Every Good and Perfect Gift"). It underscores the **Necessity of Prayer and Dependence on God**, especially in moments of perceived lack or difficulty, reinforcing the call to "ask" found throughout Scripture (e.g., [Matthew 7:7](/matthew/7-7 "Matthew 7:7 - Ask, Seek, Knock")). Furthermore, it emphasizes the **Practical Nature of Biblical Wisdom**, which is not merely theoretical knowledge but the ability to apply divine truth to real-life situations, particularly in navigating trials and making righteous decisions, a concept elaborated upon in [James 3:13-18](/james/3-13-18 "James 3:13-18 - Heavenly Wisdom vs. Earthly Wisdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **lack (Greek, _leípō_):** From a primary verb meaning "to leave," this term, used intransitively or passively, signifies "to fail or be absent," "to be destitute (wanting)." In this context, it describes a genuine deficiency or inadequacy in wisdom, not merely a desire for more. It implies a recognition of one's own inability to navigate a situation effectively without divine guidance.
* **wisdom (Greek, _sophía_):** This word denotes "wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)." In the New Testament, especially in James, it refers to a practical, spiritual discernment that enables one to live skillfully and righteously according to God's will. It's the ability to apply divine truth to life's challenges, make sound judgments, and understand God's perspective, particularly crucial when facing trials.
* **upbraideth (Greek, _oneidízō_):** Derived from a word meaning "reproach," this verb means "to defame, i.e. rail at, chide, taunt," or "to cast in teeth, (suffer) reproach, revile." Its use here highlights God's unique character: unlike human benefactors who might make one feel ashamed or indebted for asking, God does not scold, criticize, or shame those who come to Him in their need for wisdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If any of you lack wisdom":** This opening clause acknowledges a universal human experience—the recognition of one's own intellectual or spiritual insufficiency in certain situations. It's a humble admission of need, particularly in the face of complex decisions or trials, setting the stage for divine intervention.
* **"let him ask of God":** This is a direct imperative, a clear command and invitation to prayer. It directs the one lacking wisdom not to human sources, but to God Himself, establishing Him as the ultimate and sole provider of true wisdom. The act of asking signifies dependence and faith.
* **"that giveth to all [men] liberally":** This phrase describes God's character as a generous giver. The word "liberally" (Greek: _haplōs_) implies giving simply, bountifully, and without reservation or hidden motives. God's giving is characterized by abundance and straightforwardness, extending to "all" who ask, without partiality.
* **"and upbraideth not":** This powerful negative statement further illuminates God's gracious nature. It assures the petitioner that God will not scold, reproach, or shame them for their ignorance, their need, or their request. Unlike human benefactors who might make one feel small or indebted, God welcomes our requests with open arms and a non-judgmental heart.
* **"and it shall be given him":** This is a clear, unconditional promise of reception. It provides absolute assurance that a genuine request for wisdom, made to God, will be answered. This promise underscores God's faithfulness and His delight in providing for His children's true needs.

#### Literary Devices
James 1:5 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. It begins with a **Conditional Statement** ("If any of you lack wisdom..."), which sets up a clear premise and its corresponding consequence, inviting the reader to identify with the stated condition and embrace the promised solution. The verse also utilizes **Contrast** to highlight God's unique character; He "giveth... liberally" in stark opposition to the human tendency to "upbraid" or reproach. This contrast magnifies God's unparalleled grace and generosity. Furthermore, there is an element of **Divine Assurance** in the direct promise, "and it shall be given him," which functions as a powerful affirmation of God's reliability and willingness to respond to prayer.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
James 1:5 is a profound statement about God's character and His relationship with humanity, revealing Him as an accessible, generous, and non-judgmental Father who delights in supplying the needs of His children, especially the crucial need for wisdom. This wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but practical discernment for righteous living, particularly vital when navigating the complexities and trials of life. The verse underscores the theological truth that true wisdom originates solely from God, contrasting with worldly wisdom that often leads to strife and confusion. It also implicitly emphasizes the importance of humility, as acknowledging a "lack" of wisdom is the prerequisite for receiving it from God.

* [Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "Proverbs 2:6 - The Lord Gives Wisdom")
* [1 Kings 3:9-12](/1_kings/3-9-12 "1 Kings 3:9-12 - Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom")
* [Matthew 7:7-8](/matthew/7-7-8 "Matthew 7:7-8 - Ask, Seek, Knock")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
James 1:5 stands as an enduring beacon of hope and a practical guide for every believer. It invites us to cultivate a posture of humility, recognizing that our own understanding is often insufficient for life's challenges. Instead of relying on human intellect or succumbing to despair when faced with difficult decisions or overwhelming circumstances, we are encouraged to turn directly to God. This verse challenges any hesitation we might have in approaching God with our needs, assuring us that He is not a reluctant giver but a generous Father who delights in providing. It calls us to a life of continuous dependence on divine wisdom, particularly as we seek to live out our faith in a complex world, navigate trials with patience, and make choices that honor Him. Embracing this truth fosters a deeper trust in God's character and His unwavering commitment to our spiritual growth and well-being.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you currently feel a lack of wisdom or discernment?**
* **How does the assurance that God "upbraideth not" impact your willingness to approach Him with your needs and perceived inadequacies?**
* **What practical steps can you take to consistently ask God for wisdom in your daily life and decision-making?**
* **How might receiving God's wisdom help you navigate current or future trials with greater patience and maturity, as suggested by the broader context of James 1?**

### FAQ

**What kind of "wisdom" is James referring to in this verse?**

Answer: The "wisdom" (Greek: _sophía_) James refers to is not merely intellectual knowledge or worldly shrewdness. Instead, it is a practical, spiritual discernment that enables a believer to live righteously and skillfully according to God's will, especially in the midst of trials and difficult circumstances. It's the ability to apply divine truth to everyday life, make sound judgments, and understand God's perspective on situations, leading to godly conduct and spiritual maturity. This is distinct from the "earthly, sensual, demonic" wisdom described later in [James 3:15](/james/3-15 "James 3:15 - Earthly Wisdom").

**Does "giveth to all [men] liberally" mean God gives wisdom to everyone, regardless of their faith?**

Answer: While God's general benevolence extends to all humanity (e.g., [Matthew 5:45](/matthew/5-45 "Matthew 5:45 - God's Rain on Righteous and Unrighteous")), in the immediate context of James, the primary audience is believers who are experiencing trials. The promise is specifically for "any of *you*," referring to the scattered Jewish Christians addressed in [James 1:1](/james/1-1 "James 1:1 - Greeting to the Scattered Tribes"). The subsequent verse, [James 1:6](/james/1-6 "James 1:6 - Asking in Faith"), clarifies that this asking must be "in faith, nothing wavering," suggesting that the promise of receiving wisdom is contingent upon a trusting relationship with God. Therefore, while God is universally generous, this particular promise of wisdom is for those who come to Him in faith.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
James 1:5, while an Old Testament principle of seeking wisdom from God, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is not only the embodiment of divine wisdom but also the means by which we can approach God to receive it. The Apostle Paul declares that Christ "is made unto us wisdom from God" ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom")), signifying that all true wisdom, knowledge, and understanding are found in Him. Through Christ, we have access to the Father ([Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Ephesians 2:18 - Access to the Father Through Christ")), allowing us to "ask of God" with confidence, knowing that our prayers are heard and answered through His Son. The generous, non-upbraiding character of God described in James 1:5 is perfectly mirrored in Jesus, who never shamed those who came to Him in their weakness or lack, but rather welcomed them with grace and compassion ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). Thus, in Christ, the promise of wisdom is not just a theological concept but a living reality, enabling believers to live skillfully and righteously in a world that desperately needs divine discernment.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 2:3

Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, [and] liftest up thy voice for understanding;

Proverbs 2:6

For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding.

John 15:7

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Jeremiah 29:12

Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.

Jeremiah 29:13

And ye shall seek me, and find [me], when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

Proverbs 3:5

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Proverbs 3:7

¶ Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.