July 20, 2018: SOAP #3151: 2Chronicles 29-31; James 4

Scripture:  James (NIV) 4:17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.

Observation:   About the time pride sets in because I have done quite well in keeping the 10 Commandments, I come across this verse!  Sin is more than doing what is forbidden, it is also not doing what I know I should do!   Sin is more than committing evil, it is also omitting good!

Application:  I need not feel guilty for every opportunity to do good, but for “the good I know I ought to do.”  It is when the Holy Spirit draws my attention to something I can do, or someone I can help.  It becomes a task assigned to me.  Perhaps I am tired, and I shrug it off.  Perhaps there are other things I would rather do.  Perhaps I do not like the person the Lord shows me to help.  When my preference overrides my obedience—that is sin.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, forgive me for dragging my feet in doing some of the things you have assigned me.  Forgive me for questioning your direction.  Holy Spirit, I need your assistance to do the things assigned to me.  Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!