What makes a gift truly a gift? Not the price tag or the wrapping, but the heart behind it. A true gift is freely given, with no strings attached, no payment expected, no hidden agenda. It flows from the giver's love and reveals the giver's character. When we receive a genuine gift, we see something of the giver's heart—their generosity, their thoughtfulness, their care for us.

James reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from above, from the Father of lights. Unlike human givers whose moods change and whose generosity fluctuates, God gives constantly, perfectly, unchangingly. There is no shadow of turning in Him—His character as Giver never wavers. He does not give grudgingly today and withhold tomorrow. He does not bless us when we please Him and punish us when we fail. His gifts flow from His nature, not from our worthiness.

This week we explore the spiritual principles woven into the very idea of gift-giving. We will discover that gifts teach us about grace—receiving what we cannot earn. They reveal sacrifice—the cost borne by the giver. They inspire generosity—gifts received freely are meant to be shared freely. They demonstrate timing—the best gifts come at the perfect moment. And they embody presence—the greatest gift is not a thing but a person who chooses to be with us. As we journey through these lessons, we will find that they all point toward one gift, given at one moment in history, that changed everything.

"In the gift of Christ, God has opened to us all heaven." (Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 286)

Prayer: Father of lights, thank You for being a God who gives freely and constantly. Open our hearts this week to understand the depth of Your generosity and the principles hidden in every gift You give. Amen.