James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect (free, large, full) gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of all [that gives] light, in [the shining of] Whom there can be no variation [rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [as in an eclipse]. AMPC

I use the Classic Amplified bible version here for the more complete expression of thought in this verse.

During Sunday school I was pointing out the good gifts and left off the last part of the verse. A brother in the Lord quickly pointed to the last half of the verse. We had not yet discussed the good and the pastor ran with that. My brother’s point never was discussed, so I went to him after class and had that discussion.

We all have people we look up to and admire in this life. Their gifts and abilities can be very helpful and impressive. We might even desire to be like them, but we should not. While they are shining examples of discipleship, they are not perfect. If closely observed we will eventually see a turning, a shadow cast as their humanity comes between us and the candle they hold.

If you have a high expectation of me, I will disappoint you. I cannot and should not be asked to live up to anyone else’s expectations. I hope my flaws are not of the hurtful kind. If I cause pain, I know my Lord will chasten me. If I wound you, I expect you to tell me and let us work at healing the wound.

If my flaw is neither hurtful nor a stumbling block to your faith, can you be gracious to love me anyway?

Christ was perfect and died so that I would not have to die because I am not.

Acts 28:2b they kindled a fire, and received us every one,

Recently one of these devotionals sparked a larger conversation. A dear brother asked some pointed questions in relationship to a point that was made but not fully developed. These things happen in devotionals. I try to keep the length of devotions to a comfortable reading time. They are not meant for deep study but hopefully are food for thought and conversation.

The conversation about that point has blessed me very much because it showed me how others might receive or perceive my post. In the end my position was more fully expressed and better articulated, for myself as much as for my friend. He brought fuel to the fire that I had sparked.

In Acts 28:3 Paul brings wood to the fire. Other lessons are associated with this event but for the sake of this devotional, I ask you read and see for yourselves those lessons. The purpose of this devotional is the issue of the kindling. Devotionals are nothing more than kindling, to get a fire started, not to shed the depth of warmth and protection and light of a roaring fire. Those fires should be shared in the presence of those who bring fuel for the fire, in fellowship.

I pray my devotionals be used as kindling, to start a fire and not be the only warmth, light and protection you receive each day. That is not my intention nor the Lord’s desire.

Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Nor does it mean to gather only on Sunday. Continue always in the Word, every day, bring fuel or bring kindling, but be present daily in fellowship everywhere you go.