James 1:17 (CEB)

17 Every good gift, every perfect gift, comes from above. These gifts come down from the Father, the creator of the heavenly lights, in whose character there is no change at all.


Reflection

It seems likely that most people have debated about the nature of God at one time or another. Perhaps it is only human nature to question and challenge God. How many of us have cried out to God in desperation, as we make bargaining, frantic promises like:

“Please God, if you can just…. (take this pain away), then I will worship You and do whatever You ask!”

But I really wonder if we have the same vigor and commitment to God when there’s reason to celebrate!  Or do we instead make promises to God and then forget all about our commitment when tomorrow comes?  Do we give the momentary sentiment, “Thanks God for this gift. Now, I’ll really believe.” It is as if our faith in God is conditional to the pay off.  Maybe we act as if our love has its price. Sometimes our love is for sale.

On the other hand, God’s love for us is not for sale! God faithfully believes in us and steadfastly gives us good gifts. No matter what our reactions, God’s reaction is still and always unconditional love. Furthermore, even when we find ourselves dealing with the hardness of life, God patiently stays and loves us through it. Despite the cost of God’s only Son, Jesus, God keeps on giving!  God’s love for us is unchanging. So go out and celebrate the goodness of God!

By Barbara Carlson


For Pondering & Prayer

Do we bargain with God in order to show our commitment? Even if we squander God’s good gifts, God’s nature is to share God’s goodness in all things. The steadfast love of God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. So what will it take for us to worship God in all things?

Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for your gift of my life! Please help me only to see your goodness in all things. Help me not to bargain my commitment to You! Help me to faithfully be your humble servant so that I may always reflect You. Amen.