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 (NIV)
From Above
According to the US Federal Aviation Authority, in describing flying over Canada in order to get to Alaska from the lower 48 states, “Thorough planning is a must for anyone planning a flight to Alaska. You may be flying through foreign airspace to get there, so you will need to know about Canadian regulations and procedures for both aeronautical and customs purposes. You may be flying over mountainous terrain and vast wilderness areas where no services are available at many airports (including fuel, food and lodging).
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Blessings come in so many different ways. Some are major blessings – like the gift of a child or grandchild. Others are normal, everyday blessings like food and shelter and friends. No matter what the blessing, the Bible tells us that they all spring from one source. James 1:17 says “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” God is the source of every good thing – whether it is spiritual or physical. The world tells another story – it celebrates those who made it “on their own.” Self-made men and women are touted as the epitome of success. Now there is nothing wrong with working hard and succeeding – the Bible says that if a person won’t work, he or she won’t eat. But we are called to recognize that every blessing we have – big or small, special or normal, is because there is a God who loves us and provides for us. We need to take time to regularly offer thanks to “the Father of the heavenly lights” who is Jehovah Jireh – the provider God. Take time to thank Him for every gift.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley