How do we seek God's wisdom?

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” — James 1:5 

Here in Cambodia, we eat this edible plant/flower on salads!

There is something incredibly reassuring about this verse. It reminds us that God’s wisdom is always available to us, and He is generous in providing it. Unlike human wisdom, which often comes from personal experiences or acquired knowledge, godly wisdom is pure, peaceable, and ultimately aligned with His divine purpose.

In today’s world, we have endless access to information at our fingertips. A quick search online can answer almost any question, but wisdom—true, godly wisdom—is not found in mere facts or opinions. It comes from an intimate relationship with God, from seeking His guidance in our daily decisions, and from trusting Him even when His answers require patience, faith, and surrender.

Reflecting on this, I remember how my faith was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. The decisions I had to make as a wife, a mother, and a lecturer were overwhelming at times. But through those challenging moments, God’s wisdom became my lifeline.

Wisdom in Making Sound Decisions

In June 2020, I faced one of the hardest career decisions of my life. At that time, I was working as a university lecturer, and the workload was becoming unbearable. We were required to teach more hours than usual, and even though classes were online, we still had to be on campus. COVID-19 was still a major threat, and every day, I feared bringing the virus home to my family—especially to my husband and son, Vandy and David.

On one hand, resigning seemed like the best option for our safety. But on the other hand, we relied on my income to help support our household. I felt torn between two difficult choices.

I remember pouring my heart out in my journal, writing: “Lord, I need wisdom. Should I stay and risk our health, or should I leave and trust You with our finances?”

God answered in His perfect timing. Instead of resigning completely, I transitioned to a hybrid teaching setup—shifting from full-time to part-time. It was not the answer I initially expected, but it was the answer God provided. He gave us just enough to sustain our needs while also keeping my family safe. And when the time was right, He opened the door for me to return as a full-time lecturer with an even better offer and a promotion. Looking back, I see how God’s wisdom was at work all along.

Wisdom in Testifying Our Faith

As Christians, wisdom is not just about making smart choices; it’s about making choices that reflect our faith in Christ. In my journal, I once wrote:

“Make decisions where others are put first, where others feel comforted, even if it means I may suffer more, where I can grow in Christlikeness, and where I can share the gospel.”

True wisdom is rooted in selflessness and obedience to God’s will. It is choosing righteousness over convenience, choosing to love even when it’s difficult, and choosing to stand firm in faith even when the world tells us otherwise.

During the pandemic, many people struggled with fear, uncertainty, and doubt. As a family, Vandy and I learned that wisdom meant more than just staying informed about the virus or preparing financially—it meant trusting in God’s sovereignty, encouraging one another in faith, and being a light to those who were struggling. Through simple acts of prayer, words of encouragement, and sharing God’s promises, we were able to testify to His goodness even in uncertain times.

Wisdom in Responding to God’s Answers

One of the hardest lessons about wisdom is learning to trust God’s answers, even when they are not what we expect. There were many moments when I wanted immediate solutions, but God’s timing required me to wait. There were times when I thought I knew best, but God had something better in store.

When I was praying about my job situation, I expected a clear yes or no from God. Instead, He led me to an in-between answer—one that required me to step out in faith. Initially, I struggled with doubts. What if part-time work isn’t enough? What if I regret my decision? But as time passed, I realized that God’s wisdom was far greater than mine.

Isaiah 55:8-9 says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

God’s wisdom surpasses human understanding, and when we fully surrender to Him, we experience His peace that transcends all circumstances.

Cultivating a Life of Wisdom

Wisdom is not something we acquire overnight—it is cultivated through a continuous relationship with God. James 1:5 reminds us that if we ask, God will give wisdom generously. But how do we position ourselves to receive it?

1. Seek God in Prayer – Bring every decision before Him. He desires to guide us.
2. Study His Word – God’s wisdom is revealed through Scripture. Meditate on His promises and commands.
3. Surround Yourself with Godly Counsel – Seek advice from mature believers who walk in faith. In my case, I sought my husband's advice and together we also sought help from our mentors/disciplers.
4. Be Humble and Teachable – A wise heart is willing to learn, listen, and be corrected.
5. Trust in God’s Timing – His answers may not come immediately, but they will always be perfect.

The more we seek God, the more we grow in wisdom, and the more we are able to walk in His ways with confidence and peace.

A Prayer for Wisdom

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your promise in James 1:5—that when we lack wisdom, we can come to You, and You will provide generously. Lord, I humble myself before You, acknowledging that I do not have all the answers. Teach me to seek You first in every decision, big or small. Help me to trust in Your ways, even when they do not align with my own understanding.

Father, I pray for wisdom that leads to righteousness. Let my choices reflect Your love and truth. Give me a discerning heart that is not easily swayed by the world, but is anchored in Your Word. In moments of uncertainty, may I find peace in Your presence, knowing that You are in control.

Bless my family, my work, and the people You have placed in my life. May we continue to grow in faith, seeking Your guidance in all that we do.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Thoughts

Wisdom is not just about knowing what to do—it’s about having the heart to follow where God leads. Whether we are making difficult choices, testifying our faith, or waiting for God’s answers, we can trust that His wisdom is always perfect.

As we navigate life’s uncertainties, let us be encouraged that God is always ready to provide wisdom when we ask. His wisdom brings clarity, peace, and assurance that we are walking in His perfect will. Let’s continue seeking Him daily, growing in faith, and trusting that He is always at work in our lives.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” — Proverbs 9:10

May we always seek the wisdom that comes from above. 

Serving in Cambodia,

The Hourngs 😍🙏