In so many churches these days, I’ve found a large emphasis placed on pastors and youth pastors pursuing knowledge. Many churches won’t even consider hiring a pastor unless he is ordained or has multiple degrees from credible universities. Everyone seems determined to figure out God. If we just learn enough, we’ll understand. And this understanding only comes to those who study hard enough, obtain enough degrees, or learn all the ancient languages.
But since when has a relationship with Christ not been enough? Knowledge is great, but what happens then? It tells us nothing of how to live our lives. What we need is wisdom. And thankfully, you don’t need seven Masters to get it.
In his first chapter, James says wisdom is a free gift of God and given to anyone who asks. A “freebie” given to anyone who asks. In others words, it’s not one of those gifts that’s given to a select few but instead given to those that remember to ask. Years ago I started asking God every day in my prayer journal, “Lord, give me wisdom. You said whoever asks shall receive, so I am asking.” I believe it has been the single most significant thing I have done with my life. Not to say that I have more wisdom than others, but I believe that God has honored my request and given me the insights I needed for the mission He has given me. So why isn’t more said about a simple truth that can change our lives? Maybe the simplicity of God’s gracious gift is the problem. We often think that God’s great mysteries are shrouded in secrecy to be learned by a select few. But the truth might be it’s as simple as asking.