A kind of firstfruits of His creatures.

James 1:16-21, Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

It’s far to easy for me to get angry, even when I know that God is in control. So it makes no sense from that perspective either. James recognizes early the role of trials in testing us and purifying us. And we have a Father who delights to give us His good gifts! Are we representing Him well, are we seeking to be conformed to the likeness of Jesus? I know that on my own I don’t have the power to do this, but by receiving His word and by the power of His Holy Spirit, I am being transformed!

Continue Your work in me today, Lord; stir my affections for Jesus and change my heart to be more like His.

ESV Lectionary