If any of you lacks wisdom he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 1:5
I believe that this verse along with many in the Book of James can be misunderstood. For example, as you read the verse one could easily focus on the words "without finding fault".
You see, I think the devil could easily re-write this verse to sound the same but completely hinder you from it's blessing. Read what I think the devil's version would be: "If any of you lacks wisdom he should ask God, who gives generously to all that are without fault, and it will be given to him."
See how a simple alteration changes the complete meaning of a graceful statement into a condemning statement? The devil would want you to think that this blessing is only available to you if you have no faults! Think of all the time we waste seeking perfection. So these types of lies become the beliefs that shape our lives and our actions.
So back to the verse... As I read it, my interpretation of it is that if I lack wisdom and I ask God, he will give it to me freely without holding my actions for ransom. In my opinion, this one of the keys to true Christian living. A life free of condemnation, free of religious requirements, a life of relationship with the God who treats you as if you had no fault because of your trust in what he does for you every day.
So as you can see, a simple twist of the word and you find yourself in startling consequences. Think about it, if salvation and grace was up to us, we would be finished!
No comments:
Post a Comment