God’s goodness

James 1:17

“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.”

I had quite an amazing day yesterday. Living in a rural area means that medical visits usually involve a very long drive, and this day was no exception. So much of the day was spent driving along the country roads, peaceful and lovely. God has gifted our area with wonderful soaking rain and gentle mists as we move out of a summer that has been scorchingly hot. God’s goodness is everywhere to be seen. Dry fields are bursting into green as the fresh shoots appear, sheep are plentiful in the paddocks, and the wild birds are flocking. Even the normally territorial magpies have congregated in large busy groups. And God’s bounty was everywhere to be seen, especially in the abundance of the fruit on the road side trees.

Our trip took way longer because we couldn’t help but stop to take advantage of the fruit so freely given by our Creator. Years and years ago, people had discarded apple cores, or peach stones as they travelled and trees sprang up near the railway lines and on the verges along country roads, where the rain water gathered. This was all part of God’s plan too. He caused the trees to grow and bear fruit. Apples, almonds, peaches, pears, are free to all who take the time to stop, and pick and wonder at God’s benevolence. No one need go hungry in God’s plan.

God gives us food, he gives us love, comfort and the feeling of being a part of one great family in faith. His blessings are everywhere to see. All good things come from God through his great love for us, so there’s no need to worry or fear. We have a God who nourishes and sustains, both our bodies and our souls, and we don’t even have to ask for anything; he provides.

In this verse James recognises God’s goodness, a goodness that doesn’t change, and that is as steadfast as the seasons. So let’s thank the Lord, O thank the Lord, for all his love.