Beautiful Word Devotional #169

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

God is a good Father who loves to give good gifts to his children. And since he is our wise heavenly Father, he knows what events, experience, character traits, and relationships are best for us. He has the long view in mind.

Even knowing this key truth about God, we can sometimes struggle to see his gifts to us as good. We experience an unexpected and tragic loss, and we don’t understand why. Or we wonder if God is truly good when things go wrong.

James reminded us that God is the source of all good gifts. But at the beginning of the chapter, he had encouraged us to consider trials that come our way as a reason for pure joy because they will strengthen our faith. So whether God’s gifts come in the form of trials or in the form of answered prayers, remember that God is good in both circumstances. He is always good.

Lord, keep me aware of the gifts you graciously and generously give me. I want to be grateful, amen.