Why does James 1:17 read differently?

Compare two translations and discover what James teaches about the Giver of every good gift.

How to Compare Bible Translations  Sometimes reading a familiar verse in another translation helps you notice something new. Here's a simple way to compare translations and explore what they reveal.  1. Read James 1:17 in two translations    New King James Version (NKJV):    Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.     New International Version (NIV):    Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.     Notice how the NKJV says "no variation or shadow of turning," while the NIV says "does not change like shifting shadows."   Both translations describe God's unchanging nature, but the different wording may help you picture what James is teaching more clearly. 2. Explore a study note    What do the heavenly lights and shifting shadows have to do with God's goodness?    The NKJV MacArthur Study Bible, available with Bible Gateway Plus, explains:    no variation or shadow of turning. From man’s perspective, the celestial bodies have different phases of movement and rotation, change from day to night, and vary in intensity and shadow. But God does not follow that pattern—He is changeless (cf. Mal. 3:6; 1 John 1:5).The sun, moon, and stars appear to change. But the God who created them remains constant—and James reminds us that every good gift comes from Him.    Read the full study note on James 1:17 →  3. Return to Scripture and reflect    Read James 1:17 once more. What do you notice now that you've compared the translations and explored the study note? Think of one gift you're grateful for today. How does this verse help you recognize the Giver behind that gift? Try this in your next Bible study. Compare two translations, explore a trusted study resource, and return to Scripture with a deeper understanding. Discover more as you read    The NKJV MacArthur Study Bible helped us understand why James calls God the “Father of lights” and what he means by “shadow of turning.” With Bible Gateway Plus, you can explore this trusted resource alongside 70 study tools valued over $5,300, helping you uncover the meaning behind Scripture's words and imagery.    Pick the plan that helps you go deeper  Yearly plan: $69.99/year ($5.83/month)  Monthly plan: $6.99/month  Choose yearly and get 2 months free.  Start My Free Trial 7 days free. Cancel anytime.  Have any questions? Please write to us at support@biblegateway.com. *All prices are USD. Additional sales tax may apply. The 7-day free trial is available to new subscribers only.   This email was sent to alitealbum.biblegateway@blogger.com by 501 Nelson Place, Nashville, TN 37214, USA. You received this email because you are signed up for communications from Bible Gateway. If you have questions or comments about this email, please contact us.   Manage all Bible Gateway communication | Opt Out of all Bible Gateway communication   VIEW THIS EMAIL IN YOUR BROWSER  ►