Recently I was wrestling with a decision, and I wrote in my journal, “Oh Lord, I need wisdom!” Ever been there? I’m guessing you have.

James, the brother of Jesus, wrote, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives to all without finding fault, and it will be given you” (James 1:5). I, for one, am so thankful for that promise because life takes a lot of wisdom, doesn’t it? 

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Oh, the depths of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” (Romans 11:33-34). 

Here are 3 prayers for the moments in life when you need wisdom.

Lord Jesus, I praise You that You are the author of wisdom. Scripture teaches me that the LORD gives wisdom, and from His mouth comes understanding. Lord, teach me to lean into you and to go to you first when I need wisdom. I praise You that You promise whenever we lack wisdom, You have more than enough to meet our needs and You never judge us for coming to You when we lack wisdom. Thank You that You give generously. I praise You in advance for the wisdom You will give for _______________ (name specific circumstances where you need wisdom) (Romans 11:33-34, James 1:5).

Holy One, I praise You that even when I don’t understand Your ways, You are working all things together for my good. Thank You that Your ways are higher than my ways and Your thoughts than my thoughts. I praise You that as I listen to Your still small voice, You will direct my paths and help me grow in wisdom. You have promised that I will hear a voice behind me saying which path to walk in. I claim that promise for my decisions. Thank You that Your wisdom is magnificent and far beyond any human wisdom (Romans 8:28, Isaiah 55:8-9, 30:21, 28:29).

Lord God, I exalt You as the God of all wisdom. I praise You that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found in You. Thank You that Your understanding knows no limit and that You created the world with perfect insight. Holy Spirit, today I need wisdom in _______________ (name a specific circumstance). Bring my heart into perfect union with Yours so that I don’t make foolish decisions. I praise You for the people around me who are godly and can advise me in this decision. Thank You that You are always available and ready to hear the cries of my heart and fill my heart with godly wisdom. Thank You, that moment by moment as I move through my day, You will plant thoughts in my mind for each and every decision. Help me to listen carefully to the voice of Your Spirit, and to act in accordance with your will (Colossians 2:3, Jeremiah 10:12, Proverbs 13:10).

Friend, the power of praying scripture in our lives is huge! If you haven’t purchased The Extraordinary Power of Praise, this is a great month to get it, as all Moody Bible studies are 40% off at moodypublishers.com!