James 1:16–18 (ESV)
Testing of Your Faith
16
Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. 18 Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that
we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
It is interesting that I am covering the book of James while at the same time, I have been preaching from James. One thing you will get from James
is to flee and avoid worldliness. The ways of the world are NOT God’s ways. The ways of the world will lead you astray. That is why James warns “Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.” God provides us with God saving
wisdom, which is contrary to the wisdom of the world. The world’s wisdom does not save you, but God’s wisdom, wisdom that he gives you, does save you. God also provides for your daily needs. There is a difference between needs
and wants. I may want a Ferrari, but a mini van may be what I need. Wants tend to be worldly. But we pray “Give us this day our daily bread.” God provides for us.
I pray:
O Lord, help me to not covet things that I don’t have, but to be content with what you have given me. Let my prayers not be selfish, but to pray and give thanks for the daily bread you provide. I humbly give thanks for everything
you have done for me through your Son Jesus Christ. Let me be satisfied with the faith you have given me, the forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and salvation itself. What more do I need? My cup runs over. Thank you, Amen.