5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
James 1:5
εἰ δέ τις ὑμῶν λείπεται σοφίας – “But if any of you [continually] lacks wisdom [for himself]” – Pay particular attention to the continuous aspect of the verb “lack” (λείπεται). Trials teach us things—specifically, they teach us things which we do not already know. In other words, if we continually lack some point of wisdom in our lives, God may prescribe a particular trial in order to teach us that point.
For example, one lacking an attitude of dependence upon God, may remain largely unaware of such a deficiency until God brings upon him a trial which clearly shows him that he cannot depend upon himself. At that point he will conclude that he must depend upon God, and he will pray to God to grant him that attitude.
If a trial is brought upon us by God for a purpose—that is, to teach us—surely our faithful prayers to Him to fulfill that purpose shall be faithfully answered by Him. Note the manner in which God gives: “generously and without reproach.” Nobody can point to the manner in which God gives and in it find fault. This is often called into question by those who do not fear God, but their complaints are based on their ignorance regarding the character of God. Those who fear God have no reason at all to doubt that He will grant those things which are asked according to His will.
What wisdom do you lack? Or, rather, what wisdom are you lacking? We do not have to wait for a trial to ask God to teach us. Humble yourself before God and recognize Him as the giver of all wisdom, and you will find Him faithful.