James 1:5-7 English Standard Version
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
Doubt sounds like a faith killer but it is not. Doubt is created within the mind which is flesh and the flesh opposes the Spirit. Doubt cannot touch faith which is a providence of God who dwells in our hearts according to Ephesians 3:17.
Why we ask and how we ask has more to do with God’s answer than we might think. Asking for wisdom will help correct what we ask for and how we ask. If we look to the issue of the sea and the wind we will discover that those two forces are related to God’s will and the effects of the Holy Spirit performing God’s will.
When our will opposes God’s will, we are fighting forces beyond our control. If we would ask for God’s will in earthly matters we might have a better understanding of how we fit into God’s plan. We often come to God with our wants with no regard for His Word or His will.
God might answer “I do not care, do as you like.” In such a case we are free to make our own decision because He knows that our choices will not interfere with His will. Then again God might have a say in the matter which serves His will rather than opposing it.
We will never know if we do not seek God’s will.
Knowing God’s will does not mean we will obey Him and that is on us.