James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
The word blessing is defined as “God’s favor and protection.” This is helpful to me, because I have often been a bit bothered by the word itself. Did it mean “a gift from God”? Did it imply special attention from God? But it’s meaning is closer to something intangible and unmeasurable. We know we are under God’s “blessings umbrella” because we know God. We trust God and know His Son, and know he is our Savior. We are, therefore, forever blessed by God, every minute of every day. This passage refers to gifts from God, and these gifts belong to His entire creation. I think this verse implies that all of God’s creation is under God’s blessing.
Father God, I am thankful for your many blessings, the ones I see and experience, and the blessings on those far away who do not know you (yet). Grant me wisdom, Lord. Amen
Becky, transforming
Ever since I posted this morning, this song has been in my head. It says exactly what I said. Great is Thy Faithfulness. The line, Thou changes not, thy compassions, they fail not; as thou has been, thou forever will be! A great hymn written in 1923. As you have been, you forever will be! Thank you!
Wednesday, June 22nd, 2022
James 1:17 “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
I am learning that every situation, no matter how difficult, I should be thankful because it is a gift from God I should be able to respond properly and faithfully. It is a lesson to learn from and helps me/us to grow and be more like Him. Those who do not understand this will believe God as one who changes. They think that one day God is good and blessing them with pleasant gifts. The next he is either unaware of what satan is doing, or he is powerless, or j…
James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
Blessings are gifts from God. God is the giver of anything good in our lives. Every challenge we face, no matter how difficult is a gift that will teach us about life. We can find something good out of the bad. God does not change. He is the same today, tomorrow unto eternity. It’s what I do with the gifts that may change my life.
Dearest Lord, thank you for all the wonderful gifts you have given me. It is through these gifts of scripture that help me understand all that is happening in…
James 1:17 I agree with Becky. “Blessing“ connotes so much more than a gift. James tells us in each of God’s blessings is a good and perfect gift. That is a big difference and it is the model for us as we strive to bless others. Usually “re-gifting” something is considered to be in poor taste. Consider though, the inner peace we discussed last night can be redeemed or ”re-gifted” to others, extending God’s peace one person at a time. From a monetary standpoint, we can share this lavish gift for no cost. The spiritual cost of surrender to the Holy Spirit is well worth it and pays for itself over a lifetime of faith.
Prayer - Generous God, help me…
James 1:17 What ever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our father, who created all the light in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. The blessing I find in this verse is that God is constant in his love for me. In a world that is constantly changing, God and his word does not. I know I can count on him to be with me always – in good times and bad. Prayer: gracious God, thank you for this reminder of your never changing love for all your children. Amen