Wisdom for the Asking
C.H. Spurgeon's sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking divine wisdom through prayer and faith in God's generous nature.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of seeking divine wisdom, acknowledging our inherent folly and the limitations of human understanding. He encourages believers to approach God in prayer, confidently asking for wisdom, which He generously provides without reproach. Spurgeon expresses gratitude for the simplicity of this promise, highlighting that wisdom is available to all who humbly seek it, regardless of their past mistakes or ignorance. He reassures that God will guide us through life's complexities and grant us understanding that surpasses worldly knowledge.
Text
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. (James 1:5)
If any of you lack wisdom. There is no "if" in the matter, for I am sure I lack it. What do I know? How can I guide my own way? How can I direct others? Lord, I am a mass of folly, and wisdom I have none.
Thou sayest, "Let him ask of God." Lord, I now ask. Here at Thy footstool I ask to be furnished with heavenly wisdom for this day's perplexities, ay, and for this day's simplicities; for I know I may do very stupid things, even in plain matters, unless Thou dost keep me out of mischief.
I thank Thee that all I have to do is to ask. What grace is this on Thy part, that I have only to pray in faith and Thou wilt give me wisdom'. Thou dost here promise me a liberal education, and that, too, without an angry tutor or a scolding usher. This, too, Thou wilt bestow without a fee -- bestow it on a fool who lacks wisdom. O Lord, I thank Thee for that positive and expressive word "It shall be given him." I believe it. Thou wilt this day make Thy babe to know the hidden wisdom which the carnally prudent never learn. Thou wilt guide me with Thy counsel and afterwards receive me to glory.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The acknowledgment of our lack of wisdom - The importance of asking God for wisdom - The assurance of God's generous response
- II points: - Understanding the nature of divine wisdom - The contrast between earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom - The role of faith in receiving wisdom
- III points: - Practical applications of wisdom in daily life - The significance of humility in seeking wisdom - The promise of guidance from God
Key Quotes
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“What grace is this on Thy part, that I have only to pray in faith and Thou wilt give me wisdom.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Thou wilt guide me with Thy counsel and afterwards receive me to glory.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Regularly ask God for wisdom in both complex and simple matters of life.
- Embrace humility when seeking guidance, recognizing our own limitations.
- Trust in God's promise to provide wisdom without reproach when we ask in faith.