Read: James 1:5

James is writing about hard times. But instead of dreading hard times, he suggests it is possible to respond with joy and stick it out because God is using the hard times that come our way to cultivate spirtual depth and maturity. The mark of maturity is wisdom.

Wisdom is what allows us to make good decisions, and to learn from bad ones. A wise person draws from their upbringing, their values, their education, their life experiences, and their common sense.

The good news is that for those of us who may not have had the advantage of good upbring, learning and sense, God is in the business of providing wisdom. He gives us what we need to make good decsions.

What makes a decision good? A good decision is one that advances my interest, God's interest, and the interests of the people impacted by the decision. The ideal decision is a win-win-win, or something that approaches it. And God promises to supply the wisdom we need to get there without shaming us or making us qualify for it.

We just need to admit we don't have it in us, and ask.

Write
Think about your faith story: what are some wise decisions you have made? What are some unwise decisions and what did you learn from them about yourself?

What are some important decisions you are making? What kind of wisdom do you lack and need to ask God to provide?

Who do you know is struggling with a decision and needs God's wisdom?

Pray
What is God saying to you today?

Talk to God about you current states of maturity. In what areas do you desire wisdom? Talk to God about the lessons you are learning from unwise decisions.

Talk to God about the decisions you are making. Ask God to show you the cost and benefits of the alternatives to yourself, God, and the people around you. Pray for wisdom.

Pray for your friend who is struggling with a decision. Ask God to show you how you can support them in their decision process.

Pray for a fresh experience of God's love, grace and mercy as he supplies you with wisdom to make good decisions, and as he gives you second chances to remake some past decisions in new ways.