James tells us that when we lack wisdom, we ought to ask God with a faith filled heart. He assumes there will be times where we lack the insight and discernment that we need to make good judgments in our actions towards others. He is clear that God is generous and willing to give to all (young or old) without making us look foolish for asking. The condition for asking is that we come with an undivided loyalty and trust in God. We will know when the wisdom of God shows up in our lives because it has a specific quality to it. It contrasts other actions that never have their origin in God. When connected and related to him, he will shape and form the way we live, and his wisdom will be visible in our actions and attitudes towards others.