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
Okay, fellow travelers, it’s word study day. And today’s word is “wisdom.”
The Greek word is σοφία (sophia) and is a noun describing wisdom, clarity, and/or learning. Its Hebrew equivalent, חָכְמָה, (chokmah), translates as wisdom, and broad and/or full intelligence.
In English, sophia is the root of words like philoSOPHy (affection for wisdom) and SOPHistication (the art of using wisdom).
One neat feature of sophia is that it contains a two-tiered Greek application. In other words, it can be either worldly or spiritual wisdom depending on the context. James is focusing on the latter.
What James is saying is that God is generous and nonjudgmental toward those who faithfully seek spiritual wisdom, clarity, and understanding. What it implies is a pure heart and motive for possessing such sophia.
One last word of wisdom from this HitchHiker. Approaching God and seeking spiritual wisdom is a humbling experience, and you will learn over time that the more you know about the Triune God of Grace, the less you actually do know, and the more you want to explore!
Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.” So let no one boast in men… 1 Corinthians 3:18-21
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