LEARNING DAILY

James 1:17, Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

God is the Author of everything that is good! Believers must not allow the situations they face cause them to blame God or be tricked into turning away from Him. James has said that God is not the cause of sin or of suffering. Consider all the good things you have. “Don’t be deceived” anything and everything good comes from God. He does not change from being a good God when trials begin. He is still good when bad things come.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift” speak of God’s blessings. What He gives to Believers is not just good; its perfect. He gives to Believers in abundance from His storehouse; from this storehouse comes not only material blessings but spiritual blessings that are to be shared with others. How often Believers forget that they are blessed so God can bless others through them. Proverbs 11:25, “Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.”

“Coming down from the Father of lights” refers to the purity of the gifts that God gives. God is the Creator of light. This symbolizes that God does not turn His back when trials come. “Don’t be deceived” about the purity and the love of God, “with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” For Believers God’s faithfulness and dependability gives them a firm foundation to hold on to in their faith. Malachi 3:6, “For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.” Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” The Lord Jesus Christ is consistent; He does not change.

That is important to me to know in a world that is changing so rapidly. It is a reminder that God has everything in control and all that is happening is bringing eternal truths in clear focus. What is being seen in the world around us has to happen, reminding Believers that Jesus is coming for His Church and His return to establish His kingdom is near.

It is good to reflect on what James is writing. It is a reminder that God is faithful and good in every season of life. Be thankful and trust in His unchanging nature, remembering “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” Every Believer should acknowledge this, be thankful for, and find comfort in knowing God’s love never changes!