James 1:16-18

James 1:16-18

During trials and temptations, we often focus on our difficult circumstances instead of what God has planned for us. This can lead us astray from our faith. When faced with temptations that appeal to our inner desires, it is vital to remember that God is faithful and always has our salvation in mind. James tells us in 1:17, “There is no variation or shadow cast by turning.” In your trials or temptations, don’t believe the lies. Remember that God is good. And He wants that which is good for you and me.  So, trust Him in your trials, and turn to Him in your temptations. He is the source of everything good

1. His goodness is unchanging: God’s goodness is described as unchanging, meaning it remains constant and consistent. The text emphasizes that God is always good, without any variations or changes in its moral character. God does not experience negative emotions like getting into a bad mood. Furthermore, it highlights that God’s goodness is already perfect and ultimate, implying that there is no room for improvement because He is already perfectly good in every aspect.

2. His goodness is undeserved: Verse 18 says that God chose to give us birth through the “message of truth.” these paragraphs talk about how God’s goodness towards us is not something we earn or deserve. The text mentions that God chose to give us a new life through the message of truth, which is a gift of grace from Him. It emphasizes that our good qualities come from God’s undeserved kindness, as He has the power to transform us from within despite our sinful nature. The core message is that faith relies on trusting in God’s unearned favor to bring about positive changes in our lives.

3. His goodness is unending: God’s goodness is limitless. As humans, we are described as the “first fruits of His creatures,” which means we are a preview or a glimpse of what is to come in the future. The concept of first fruits suggests that what God has done in our lives through His goodness, transforming our hearts, is just a small taste of what will happen in the future. This transformation we experience now is like a teaser for the day when God will renew everything in creation. The changes He has brought about in us through our spiritual rebirth will eventually lead to a new heaven and a new earth where there will be no more struggles or temptations.

Conclusion

Brothers and sisters, Christ has saved us from our sins, and because of this, we can be confident that He will help us through our sorrows. So, the message is to focus on the gospel’s truth that God who conquers sin and suffering through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. so that today you and I can face trials with joy and face temptations with steadfast confidence.