To Know the Right Thing and Not Do It Is Sin

So any person who knows what is right to do but does not do it, to him it is sin.
— James 4:17 (AMP)

Thanks be to God for this beautiful day and the opportunity to rejoice and be glad in it!

Today’s scripture draws our minds to a crucial truth: sin is not only about doing wrong, but also about failing to do what is right. Often, we focus on the wrong actions we commit, but God also holds us accountable for the right actions we neglect.

This verse makes it clear that both sins of commission (doing what we shouldn’t) and sins of omission (not doing what we should) are recognized as sin in God’s sight.

For example: If I know someone has committed an offense and is being sought, yet I remain silent, have I sinned? According to James 4:17, yes. Remaining silent when we should speak up, or standing idle when we should act, is displeasing to God.

We need the grace and guidance of God to consistently choose what is right, even when it’s hard. His Spirit enables us to discern and obey His will at all times.

Lord Jesus, help us to abide by the Word of God, so that we may avoid both sins of commission and omission. Be our guide so that we can discern and do what is right in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.
abmingle