What is the meaning of James 1:7?

That man

“That man” reaches back to verse 6, the person who “asks in faith, without doubting.” He is also labeled “double-minded” and “unstable in all his ways” (v 8).

• Divided loyalties: trying to lean on both God and self (Matthew 6:24; 1 Kings 18:21).

• Emotionally tossed: “like a wave of the sea” (Ephesians 4:14).

• Approaches God but silently questions His character (Hebrews 11:6).

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should not expect

Expectation is faith’s posture (Mark 11:24). Doubt reverses it:

• Confidence evaporates; prayer becomes wishful thinking (Hebrews 11:1).

• Bold access (“approach the throne of grace with confidence,” Hebrews 4:16) is forfeited.

• God’s power is not limited, but He links answers to faith (Matthew 21:22; Isaiah 59:1).

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to receive anything

“Anything” is sweeping—wisdom (James 1:5), provision, healing, peace.

• Doubt blocked miracles in Nazareth (Matthew 13:58).

• Israel “could not enter because of unbelief” (Hebrews 3:19).

• God withholds no good thing from the upright (Psalm 84:11); unbelief, not stinginess, closes the pipe.

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from the Lord

The giver is “the Father of lights” (James 1:17).

• Prayer is relational—eyes fixed on Him, not on chance (Psalm 123:1-2).

• He “gives generously” (James 1:5) but will not endorse distrust (Numbers 20:12).

• Abiding faith keeps the supply line open (John 15:7; Romans 8:32).

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summary

James 1:7 warns that the doubter—anyone juggling faith and skepticism—can’t anticipate heaven’s help. God’s willingness never falters; faith is simply the open hand that receives. Drop double-mindedness, cling to Him with undivided trust, and His generosity flows freely.