“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
James 1:5 (ESV)
Reflection
Leaders make dozens of decisions a week, and a handful carry real weight: a hire, a budget cut, a program closure, a difficult conversation with a board. Many leaders carry those decisions alone, rehearsing options late at night and second-guessing themselves in the morning.
James offers a remarkably simple invitation. If you lack wisdom, ask. God gives generously and without reproach. He does not shame you for not knowing. He does not ration wisdom to the most experienced or the most spiritual. He gives freely to those who ask.
Asking God for wisdom is not a substitute for gathering data, seeking counsel or thinking carefully. It is the posture that holds all of those together. Wise leaders pray and plan, listen and decide. They bring the hard decision to God first, then walk forward trusting that he is guiding the process, not only the outcome.
For your leadership this week
- Name the most important decision in front of you this month, and pray specifically for wisdom about it.
- Invite two people whose counsel you trust to share their perspective before you decide.
- Separate the facts you know from the assumptions you are making.
Pivot question
What decision have you been carrying alone that you need to bring to God and to wise counsel?
Prayer
God of wisdom, I do not know what to do in every situation, but you do. Give me wisdom generously, as you promised, and help me lead with clarity and humility. Amen.
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Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.