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Jam 1:5. Εἰ, if) The connection of the subjects mentioned in the first and following verses, and in the first and following verses of ch. 4, will be evident to him, who, while he suffers wrongfully, directs his attention to this passage. For the good and the bad affections are alternately and variously brought forward according as the train of thought suggests.-δὲ, but) There is an antithesis between the preceding clause and this: “wanting nothing,” and “if any man lack” (want).-σοφίας, wisdom) by means of which we understand whence and why temptation comes, and how it is to be borne, and how, for example, sickness (ch. Jam 5:14) is to be met. Patience is more in the power of a good man than wisdom; the former is to be exercised, the latter to be asked for. The highest wisdom, which governs patience in the trial of poverty and riches, is described in Jam 1:9-10.-αἰτείτω, let him ask) James strongly urges the prayer of faith. Comp. ch. Jam 5:13, and following verses.-πᾶσιν, to all) who ask aright.-ἁπλῶς, simply) To be taken with the sentence “who gives to all.” Divine simplicity is an admirable excellence. He gives simply, to the more and the less worthy, whether they are about to make a good or a bad use of His gift. To this simplicity that of the faithful answers, not that of the double-minded (διψύχων).-μὴ ὀνειδίζοντος, who upbraideth not) He gives no repulse: when He gives good things, He neither upbraids us with our past folly and unworthiness, nor with future abuse of His goodness.