James 1:5

Modern

Now 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.

Traditional

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.

Literal

Now if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask from God, the One giving generously to all and not reproaching, and it will be given to him.

Latin

Si quis autem vestrum indiget sapientia, postulet a Deo, qui dat omnibus affluenter, et non improperat: et dabitur ei.

Greek

English

Now 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 introduces wisdom as a common theme (compare 3:13–18).

Theme notes and profiles

Proverbs 2:3–6
…if you truly call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding,
John 15:7
If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
Jeremiah 29:12–13
Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.
Proverbs 3:5–7
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;
1 John 5:14–15
And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
2 Chronicles 1:10
Now grant me wisdom and knowledge, so that I may lead this people. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?”
Matthew 7:7–11
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.
James 3:17
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.
1 Kings 3:7–12
And now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in my father David’s place. But I am only a little child, not knowing how to go out or come in.
John 14:13
And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
John 16:23–24
In that day you will no longer ask Me anything. Truly, truly, I tell you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.
Isaiah 55:6–7
Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.