Following college, I spent several years in sports ministry and developed close friendships with a handful of professional and Olympic athletes. In talking with these friends over the past year, each of them commented that after they retired from athletic competition they struggled to know what to do next with their lives.

Though I’ve never been an elite athlete, I can relate to the confusion that often accompanies major life changes. Thankfully, we have a heavenly Father who cares about each season of our lives and who, in times of transition, longs for us to come to Him for advice.

“If you need wisdom,” James writes, “ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind” (James 1:5-6).

I’m particularly comforted to know that despite mistakes I’ve made in the past, God remains accessible. The psalmist wrote, “O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help” (Psalm 86:5).

We’re called to (1) trust the Lord with all our hearts; (2) lean not on our own understanding; (3) in all our ways acknowledge Him. Then, He will direct our steps (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Indeed, God will generously provide the wisdom we need. But we must ask Him by faith and not doubt (James 1:6). And when we follow His divine guidance, He will give us joy instead of aimlessness (Proverbs 29:18). It’s in seeking God’s guidance that we will receive the blessing of His wisdom.

NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Joshua 5:13–6:27