James explained, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17).
Some are deceived into thinking that the temporary gratification of sin is a good and perfect gift. For example, the pleasures of adultery are undeniable. Re venge can bring quick and cheap gratification. Crushing another’s feelings by cruel words and gossip can bring a warped kind of pleasure.
But these are not gifts from above. They are not good and perfect gifts. They are tainted, tarnished, and temporary.
Then there are those blessings that do not immediately appear to be blessings. James has already pointed out how trials can bring blessings such as faith, perseverance, and spiritual maturity (James 1:3–4).
- The gift of loneliness makes us seek the fellowship of God.
- The gift of failure makes us more understanding of those who fail.
- The gift of falling short gives us the ability to forgive those who err against us.
- The gift of sorrow makes us better qualified to sympathize with those who grieve.
Not every gift looks like one. Do not be deceived. Trust the Father, who is not capricious, who does not lash out because He is having a bad day.
