"But let him ask in faith..."
Text: James 1:6
THE PLACE OF FAITH
The Apostle James correctly places a high value on faith. We are reminded of the many times the Lord Jesus expected faith from His own disciples (Matthew 8:26; Mark 4:40). Faith is needed in life and ministry. Faith is certainly needed when it comes to praying to the Lord.
ASKING IN FAITH
Prayer should come naturally to the true children of God. The Holy Spirit who resides in them will prompt them to seek God as Abba Father.
“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting,
for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea
driven and tossed by the wind.”
James 1:6
1. “Let him ask in faith”
a) The petitioner must ask himself whether he has the faith to ask from the Lord.
b) Though faith is not the only criterion for prayers to be answered, it is nevertheless an important feature to possess.
2. “With no doubting”
a) It is not easy to have this state of mind.
b) But it is a necessity to pray with such a faith.
3. What are some doubts we struggle with?
a) Would God really hear our prayers?
b) Would this be in God’s will?
c) Would God even listen to us when we are so sinful?
d) Would God be able to provide for all our needs?
4. “For he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind”
a) The imagery chosen is stark and yet very true.
b) The doubter is one who vacillates between faith and doubt.
5. The Lord’s response
a) He will not honour such prayers.
b) It goes against all that the Word of the Lord has taught.
6. We have to deal with our problem of doubts
a) Thomas expressed great doubts about the Risen Saviour.
b) Graciously the Lord Jesus dealt with those doubts (John 20:24-29).