August 3 | James 1:6-8

“But he must ask in faith without doubt, because the doubter is like a wave of the sea, driven and blown by the wind. Now that man should not expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, a double-minded man, unsteady in all his ways.” (James 1:6–8)

We have different levels of expectation when we ask for things. I can ask for $1 million but I don’t expect to get it. I can ask for a friend to help me move on the weekend. If he says yes I expect him to be there to help.

When we ask God in prayer for anything the largest part of our request is to believe he will do what we are asking. We don’t ask it nonchalantly, sort of hoping for it but not expecting him to do it. What’s the point of asking if we don’t expect Him to do it?

James reminds you that you must ask whatever you need in faith. Doubting God’s ability to answer your request is futile. He can do all things. He’s the God of the impossible. There’s nothing you ask He cannot do.

People who come to God with requests but doubt He will do them are double minded. James uses this word twice in his letter to describe a person who is paralyzed by indecision. You believe God can do what you ask but don’t believe He will do it.

Action Steps: You must believe not only in God’s grace to answer your request but His power to make it happen. There is no reason to doubt God can do anything you ask.

Jesus, I know You are all powerful, the God of the impossible. You do what no one else can do. Increase my faith and help my unbelief. I stand amazed at Your power and humbly ask You to fulfill my request. Thank You, Lord, for Your goodness and power.