“So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.” (James 1:16–17 NLT)

In this passage, James is talking to people who were struggling with temptation. They were looking for scapegoats. Some even had the nerve to suggest that God tempted them to sin. James nips that talk in the bud with three words: “Don’t be misled.”

God doesn’t tempt anyone to sin. He is light; sin is darkness. The two can’t coexist. There is no dark side to Him. There’s not even a hint of a shadow.

God created with us free will. He lets us choose whether we will obey Him or not. And He allows us to experience the consequences of our disobedience. But He doesn’t tempt us. He doesn’t try to get us to do wrong.

In fact, He gives us every reason not to sin. He warns us in His Word about temptation. In 2 Timothy 2:22, the apostle Paul writes, “Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.”

God’s light exposes darkness. It shows us the ugly truth behind the attractive things that tempt us. Not only that, God gives us an escape route from every temptation we face. In 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul writes, “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”

God isn’t the tempter; He’s the Giver. He’s generous beyond belief, and His goodness is perfect. We never have to question His motives because He wants only what’s best for us—not just in the moment, but forever. And because His wisdom is as reliable as His goodness, we can trust that everything He sends our way is not just beneficial, but perfectly beneficial.

Everything good—in this world and in your life—is a gift from God. If you wrap your mind around that truth, you have something to be thankful for every day. The promise of eternal life. The view from your favorite vacation spot. The skills, abilities, and qualities that set you apart from others. The taste of your favorite food. The people closest to you.

What would happen in your relationship with your spouse or other loved ones if you treated them like the gift from God that they are? If you spent time appreciating the many ways they bring you joy and brighten your day? If you found creative and meaningful ways to let them know how thankful you are for them?

Imagine the possibilities.

Reflection question: How can you show your appreciation for the good and perfect gifts God has given you?

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