12. When experiencing adversity, why should we not say: “I am being tried by God”?

¹² Is it possible that Jehovah himself tries us with adversity? No, we should not say: “I am being tried by God.” Jehovah is not trying to induce us to commit sin but is sure to help us and give us the strength needed to endure trials if we remain steadfast in faith. (Philippians 4:13) God is holy, so he does not place us in circumstances that would weaken our resistance to wrongdoing. If we get ourselves into an unholy situation and commit some sin, we should not blame him, “for with evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone.” Though Jehovah may permit a trial to discipline us for our good, he does not try us with evil intent. (Hebrews 12:7-11) Satan may tempt us to do wrong, but God can deliver us from that wicked one.—Matthew 6:13.

14. In what sense can it be said that God’s gifts are “perfect”?

¹⁴ We should remember that Jehovah is the Source, not of trials, but of good things. (James 1:16-18) James addresses fellow believers as “beloved brothers” and shows that God is the Giver of ‘every good gift and perfect present.’ Jehovah’s spiritual and material gifts are “perfect,” or complete, lacking nothing. They come “from above,” from God’s dwelling place in the heavens. (1 Kings 8:39) Jehovah is “the Father of the celestial lights”—the sun, the moon, and the stars. He also gives us spiritual light and truth. (Psalm 43:3; Jeremiah 31:35; 2 Corinthians 4:6) Unlike the sun that makes shadows change as it moves and is at its zenith only at high noon, God is always at his peak in providing what is good. He will surely equip us to face trials if we take full advantage of his spiritual provisions supplied through his Word and “the faithful and discreet slave.”—Matthew 24:45.