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.