Faith in the Wind

Faith in the Wind recalls waves whipped restless by storms—James warns that doubt can leave us driven and tossed unless we anchor in God.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God … 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.”—James 1:5–7

On a still day, the sea can be as calm as glass. Then, suddenly, wind can whip the water into relentless turbulence, violent and angry, only to become calm again when the wind subsides.

The Bible says this word picture describes how some people react to life’s problems. Such people have no peace and don’t seem to receive answers to their prayers. They may even read the Bible or attend church, but they still feel like a stormy sea. Turbulent. Restless. Driven and tossed.

Why this constant turmoil? James tells us that such people haven’t truly approached God in faith. They harbor doubts in their lives, indicating that they are “double-minded”—not really trusting God. He warns that they are “unstable” in all their ways (v. 8).

Doubt can easily fill our minds, causing us to be shaken by our personal circumstances or by world conditions. We can waver, sometimes trusting God, or the world, or ourselves.

All the while, God is ready to help. We simply need to ask. But we must ask in faith and expect Him to answer our prayers. We need confidence in His faithfulness to His Word, even when troubling circumstances swirl around us.

Don’t allow doubt to cripple your life. Ask God for wisdom. Focus on Him instead of on your circumstances. Declare His promises to be true and allow your heart to be filled with peace.

Reflection Question: What anchors your faith when life feels storm tossed?