No Squinting

let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach  James 1:5 

Generously – Unless you are an optician, you probably won’t recognize the imagery behind this word.  The Greek is haplos.  It is used only one time in the New Testament, but it is related to another word, haploos, that is found in Matthew 6:22 and Luke 11:34.  It’s not a word about generosity.  It is a word about seeing clearly. 

In the gospels, Jesus talks about the need for a clear vision of the truth.  He says that if your eye is haploos, you whole body will be full of light.  The imagery is  designed to help us understand that our perspective must be one of single vision.  Jesus uses this word in contrast with poneros, an eye that is diseased with evil.  The eye of evil sees double images, one that is God’s way, the other that is my way.  There is no clarity of vision and,  consequently, no uniformity in action.  James would call this kind of vision doubleminded. 

Now, says James, God gives with perfectly clear, single vision.  God does not squint or strain when He gives.  He gives with eyes-wide-open generosity.  There is no double agenda in God’s gifts.  What you see is truly what you get. 

There is an incredible implication in this tiny, one-time word.  God gives without a second agenda.  Therefore, He is not subject to negotiation.  How often have you come to God attempting to barter your way into a deal?  How often have your prayers and pleas ascended to heaven on wings of conditions?  How many promises have you made in hopes that God will be persuaded to attend to you?  Stop it!  All of that is double-vision and God does not wear bifocals.

When God gives, He simply gives.  There are no strings attached.  There is no prequalification.  There is no application form awaiting approval.  James says, “Ask God for wisdom.  He gives without restraint.”  Of course, you need to ask.  It is obvious that the man who acts first and asks second cannot expect the welcoming shower of God’s wisdom in order to see the truth.  But we are assured that asking will initiate the delivery of practical knowledge needed for continued right relationship. 

Open your eyes.  The answers are right in front of you.  If your eye is haploos, God will certainly give haplos.