Scripture passage: James 1:16-17 (various versions)
"Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect
gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is
no variation or shadow of turning." James 1:16-17 New King James Version
VERSION: New Living Translation Bible"So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and
perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven's lights.* Unlike
them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows."
VERSION: Amplified Bible"Do not be misled, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect
([a]free, large, full) gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of all
[that gives] light, in [the shining of] Whom there can be no variation [rising
or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [as in an eclipse]."
VERSION: The Message Bible vs. 16-18"So, my very dear friends, don't get thrown off course. Every desirable and
beneficial gift comes out of heaven. The gifts are rivers of light cascading
down from the Father of Light. There is nothing deceitful in God, nothing
two-faced, nothing fickle. He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us
off as the crown of all his creatures."
I was fitting to see different versions of Gods word brought to light and
life. Its up to us to use it as Wisdom directs, without fear, reservation, or
lack of whatever. We move in Him who gives us the strength and know how to
proceed.
My Observation
It was recorded in Genesis that everything God made was good.
My Application
Regardless of how and when I used my gifts, God does not revoke perfection or
the giving of gifts because I don't utilize them. I must learn to use them with
His guidance.
My Prayer
Lord, give me courage to see past fear, frustration, and blocked vision. Give
me a clear description of my gifts and how I am supposed to use them.
Like the translation of the Message bible, I have been "off course" for a long
time.
