James 1:5

It's time to talk about wisdom. But before we do, let's "make parenthesis" (it's what Italians say when they want to change the subject for a minute or two or nine). Let's look at this one little word in verse 5. James has just told us to ask for wisdom if we lack it. Ummm... who doesn't lack it? Anyway, he goes on to say that God gives generously without finding fault. At least that's what the NIV says. In Greek, this term "finding fault" interests me. It is the word to upbraid. Hmmm? I have no idea what that means. Good thing we have a dictionary! OK - good thing we have Google.

It means to scold, to reprimand.

He's not going to scold you for asking. He's not going to say, "Hey stupid - you should be old enough to know the answer." He's not going to say that you should just do it by yourself. He's not going to tell you how weak and how silly you are. He's not going to roll His eyes at you sighing that you are not good enough or smart enough. He's not going to be exasperated with you.

Sometimes I need help from other people... but you know the feeling - you're worried that they are too busy and that this problem is too petty. Or you're worried that if you ask they'll hold it over your head (at least in the back of their minds). Or you're worried that they will say no and then you'll feel awkward the next time you see them... or that they will say yes and then they'll make you feel indebted for life...

But not with God. He will not upbraid you. He will not rebuke you for asking. He will not be grumpy with you. He will not be annoyed or frustrated with you. He wants you to ask. So, go ahead. Ask Him.