1:17

Every good gift and every perfect present: The Greek word for “gift” that James here uses can also refer to the act of giving. In fact, some translations render the first part of the verse “Every good [or “generous”] act of giving.” The synonymous Greek word translated “present” is the same one that Paul uses at Ro 5:16 in referring to God’s “free gift.” Jehovah’s abundant goodness and generosity motivate him to give freely and bountifully to others. (Ps 145:16; Mt 5:45; Ac 17:25) His gifts are always good and promote the welfare and happiness of the recipients. (Ac 14:17; 1Ti 6:17) In addition, his presents are “perfect,” that is, they lack nothing; each gift is fully suited to provide what is needed in each situation.​—2Co 9:8; Php 4:19; 2Ti 3:17.

the Father of the celestial lights: Jehovah is the Father, or Creator, of the sun, moon, and stars, which appear in the sky and shed or reflect light for those who live on earth. (Ge 1:3, 4, 14-18; Ps 136:7-9; Jer 31:35) These celestial, or heavenly, lights are an essential part of creation, and observing them fills humans with awe. (Ps 8:3, 4) Jehovah is also the Source of spiritual enlightenment. His thoughts, found in the inspired Scriptures, enlighten those who choose to be guided by them. (Ps 43:3; 119:105; Pr 6:23; Isa 51:4; 1Jo 1:5 and study note) Thus, light​—physical and spiritual​—is among the good and perfect presents that come from Jehovah.​—Ps 36:9; compare 2Co 4:6 and study notes.

who does not vary or change like the shifting shadows: Here James contrasts the steadfastness of God, the Creator, with the changeableness of creation. He notes that shadows keep changing, shifting throughout the day. They do so because the sun’s position in the sky keeps changing. Jehovah is sometimes likened to a sun because he is the Source of light. (1Jo 1:5; compare Ps 84:11.) Unlike the shifting shadows caused by sunlight, though, God is constant. He rightly says: “I am Jehovah; I do not change.” (Mal 3:6) The Scriptures show that God is good, faithful, righteous, and loving, and he has many other beautiful qualities. (Mt 19:17; 1Jo 1:9; 4:8) Because Jehovah is constant, he shows these qualities continuously, in all circumstances. Therefore, Christians can be certain that he is never the source of any evil things that may befall them. (Jas 1:13) Instead, he is always the Source of “every good gift and every perfect present . . . from above.” The Creator’s steadfastness is referred to numerous times in the Scriptures.​—Nu 23:19; De 32:4; Isa 43:10-13; 46:4; Tit 1:1, 2; Heb 6:17, 18.