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James 1:16-18 presents a warning for believers to not be deceived about the character of God and the gifts that he gives. Pastor highlighted two ways deception effects how we view God's gifts. We can either think that trials are the worst thing to ever happen to us (bad gifts), or we think that having a good gift will be so much better that we cannot live without them. 

I began to think how easily I get God and his gifts wrong. Following the deception of bad gifts, I often fail to recognize God's good gifts. I have a tendency to lean toward pessimism, especially when my desires are unmet or threatened. This hyperfocus on what I want makes it is very easy to deny God's goodness in trials. Instead of trusting God, I fear that I will not see his goodness in my suffering. 

So, what's the biblical solution? James shows how to counter this deception in 1:17. I should remember the truth that God's good character will never change. Truly "every good and perfect gift is from above." Truly he is "the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." This is the true nature of God, and I need to direct my thinking toward this truth. Instead of dwelling on how awful my trials are and worrying how I will ever make it, I need to mediate on the goodness of God. I have seen his goodness every day of my life. In fact, I do not need to look far for examples! His faithfulness in past trials, his kindness despite my sin, and his undeserved grace all speak of his infinite goodness. Most of all, his goodness is seen in the undeserved grace shown to me in the cross. Note that this is where James directs his readers: "of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth" (1:18). What goodness! What grace! In the midst of trials, this is what my thoughts should focus on instead of a selfish pessimistic outlook.

Alongside a change in thinking, I also need to change how I speak about trials. Both how I talk to others and how I pray in suffering should recognize the goodness of God. This does not mean that I cannot be honest with others or share how I am struggling, but I do need to speak from a proper perspective. God is good, and when I speak of this reality in the midst of trials, it helps you and me remember what is really true.

There are many other ways to cultivate truth in our hearts and minds. Whether focusing on our thoughts, our words, or something else, I pray that we might think rightly about God's gifts and bring him glory together.

How can you remember truth and not be deceived about the character of God and the gifts he gives?