James: 1:16-18: Good Gifts
“Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” Verse 16 and 17
Yesterday we were clear that God does not tempt us towards evil, but today we remind ourselves that God brings all that is good. Suffering, trials, fleeting earthly wealth and temptations are all difficult challenges that we face as Christians. But, with any problem we need to come back to God and his goodness. We will suffer, but God will also give us good things. We may be tempted, but God’s way is always better and more fulfilling. We should not desire earthly wealth but God is building our treasures in heaven. God is fundamentally good and he shares that with us.
“He chose to give us birth through the word of truth that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.” Verse 18
God has given you a new life through Jesus’ death and desires us not to be consumed by the things we cannot have and cannot do. Sin may feel good at first but it will never truly satisfy, while suffering traps people in hopelessness. But, God is offering us the chance to choose his way and to be filled with freedom. Living a Christian life is not about drudgery of following rules but the ability to become the person God intended, so that others can see who God is.
What good things has God been doing in your life?
How is your faith lived out for others to see?
Thank God for all he does and pray he moulds you into the person he intended.
Anna Naish
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