• James 1:5
    The Kingdom Interlinear Translation of the Greek Scriptures

    • 5 Εἰ If δέ but τις anyone ὑμῶν of YOU λείπεται is lacking σοφίας, of wisdom, αἰτείτω let him be asking παρὰ beside τοῦ of the (one) διδόντος giving θεοῦ of God πᾶσιν to all ἁπλῶς simply καὶ and μὴ not ὀνειδίζοντος, reproaching, καὶ and δοθήσεται it will be given αὐτῷ· to him;

  • James 1:5
    King James Version

    • 5 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 Study Notes—Chapter 1
    New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition)

    • 1:5

      if any one of you is lacking in wisdom: James here refers to wisdom from Jehovah, the only wisdom that can help a Christian to remain faithful in times of trial. (Compare Pr 2:1, 2, 5, 6; 21:30.) James’ encouragement to keep asking God echoes Jesus’ counsel to “keep on asking.” (Mt 7:7 and study note, 8; Lu 11:9, 10) By persisting in prayer, Christians would show how strongly they desire to make decisions that Jehovah can bless. Also, by continuing to seek God’s guidance, they would allow holy spirit to help them see how to apply God’s wisdom to their situation.​—Lu 11:13; Joh 14:26.

      he gives generously to all and without reproaching: James gives his readers three reasons to be confident when asking Jehovah for wisdom: First, “he gives generously.” God stands ready to provide more than enough wisdom, without reservation. (Pr 2:6; Ro 11:33; compare 1Ki 4:29.) Second, as the impartial God, he responds “to all” who keep on requesting and seeking wisdom from him. (Pr 2:3-5; Mt 7:7; Ac 10:34) Third, God gives “without reproaching” (or, “without finding fault”), that is, kindly, without scolding or embarrassing the one asking. James here describes not only God’s promise to provide wisdom but also His disposition. Jehovah never becomes weary of repeated prayers for wisdom on the part of his worshippers.​—Lu 18:1-8.