Every Good and Perfect Gift – James 1:16-18

Question 4 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism asks, “What is God?” and answers, “God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.”  He is unchangeable in all these characteristics (unchangeable in his being, wisdom, etc.).  James must highlight God’s unchangeableness to his readers.

Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. 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. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (James 1:16-18, ESV)

One last word about the trials we face, the ones that as we respond in faith make us steadfast and mature. Not only does God not tempt us in those trials but everything He sends our way may be considered a gift, and every one of His gifts is good and perfect. We can fall into the deception that God is not good, one of Satan’s original lies (Genesis 3:1-3). We can fall into the deception of Job’s friends that He only gives good gifts to those whose obedience is complete but always sends judgment on those who displease Him. We are His beloved ones and all good and perfect gifts come from Him.

He is the unchanging Father of lights. As He promised when He made the sun, moon and stars, they will never fail until all God’s promises are completed and we are in His restored kingdom (Jeremiah 31:35,36). There is no fluctuating in Him or His goodness. The shifting shadows we observe during the day as it progresses to night do not occur in Him. He is immutable, unchangeable, reliable and trustworthy. We need never fear that His love for us will fail.

He birthed us and we were reborn through the message of truth, the gospel, that was preached to us. We were expected and the womb did not disappoint. We became His children and we are just the first of many. The converts from among the Jews in James day were a promise of a multitude to come, and we ourselves are the firstfruits of our generation who should give testimony and see others come to Him as well.

So consider it all joy when you encounter various trials.