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).

This is one of my all-time-favorite Bible verses!!!  When my life feels off track…like dealing with a loved one’s health concerns…or needing to turn the other cheek over an offense…this verse always brings me back to the right place.  It reminds me of two important truths:

1. The Bible tells us Who God is and how He works:

• He is the giver of everything…even the things we cannot comprehend.

All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:3).

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities all things were created through him and for him (Col 1:16).

• He is good and we can depend on Him, because He is faithful.

For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations (Psalm 100:5).

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations (Deut 7:9).

• Because He is good, His gifts to us (His plan for our days/weeks/years, our relationships, and our lives) are good.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jer 29:11).

To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike? …I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘˜My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’ (Is 46:5, 9-10)

2. We are small and dependent on God.  And in remembering this, life is put into perspective.  We are no longer: slaves to anger, bitterness, fear, depression, loneliness, doubt or the opinions/influences of other people.  We are instead: free, cared for, loved and accepted.

Everything, and everyone, in this life will let us down.  This is the product of the fallen world in which we live.  It is inevitable.  Except for God.  He is completely reliable.  He is eternally good.  He is infinitely generous.  He loves us like a Good Father.  Such knowledge is too wonderful for me (Psalm 139:6).  Counting our blessings is restorative. 🙂

Hugs!!

Britta ~ I am justAgirl…just like you!