Every Good and Perfect Gift: Living as God’s Firstfruits

Rev. Chuck Rains delivers a rich and challenging message from November 24, 1991, centered on James 1:17–18 and the truth that every good and perfect gift comes only from God. Using the life of Jacob as a vivid illustration of human weakness, fleshly choices, and God’s persistent grace, this sermon calls believers to examine their walk and rediscover where true blessing originates.

Rev. Rains unpacks what it means to be “firstfruits of His creatures”—recipients of God’s best, saved by His Word, and called to reflect His glory. He contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, challenges self-reliance, and encourages the church to rest in the faithfulness, goodness, and unchanging character of God.

A timely message for every believer seeking to walk in the Spirit, live with gratitude, and trust God for both daily provision and eternal promises.

📝 Show Notes

Primary Scripture References:

• James 1:17–18 — Every good and perfect gift comes from above; believers are the firstfruits of God’s creation.
• Titus 3:5–7 — Salvation by the washing and renewal of the Holy Spirit, not by works.
• John 1:1–14 — Jesus as the Word who gives life.
• 1 Corinthians 15 — Christ as the firstfruits of the resurrection.
• Genesis 29–30 — Jacob’s family conflicts, fleshly decisions, and God’s grace.
• Galatians 5:16–26 — Works of the flesh vs. walking in the Spirit.
• Ephesians 5:1–5 — Walking as children of God.

Key Themes:

• God Alone Gives Goodness True blessing does not come from the world, personal effort, or the enemy’s lies—but from God Himself.
• The Deception of Self-Reliance Jacob’s life shows the danger of trying to build a blessed life through flesh, manipulation, or striving.
• Believers as “Firstfruits” Christians display God’s glory uniquely, receiving the fullness of His love, righteousness, and promises.
• The Works of the Flesh Sexual sin, spiritual rebellion, and selfish ambition all hinder the believer’s life in God.
• Walking in the Spirit The only path to victory, blessing, and the fullness of life Jesus promised in John 10:10.
• Gratitude as God’s Will “In everything give thanks”—because every good thing originates in Him.

Episode Highlights:

• Why the world can’t offer true goodness—even when it promises it.
• How Satan deceives through empty “good things.”
• Jacob’s failures and God’s persistent mercy.
• Why love is always a choice, not just an emotion or circumstance.
• The difference between outward blessing and inward transformation.
• How to recognize the works of the flesh in your own life.
• What it means to walk in the Spirit daily.
• Learning to trust God’s promises rather than your own strength.
• The believer’s calling to reflect God’s glory as “firstfruits.”
• Encouragement to cultivate thanksgiving in every season.

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