James 4:17 “Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.”

MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

You have probably heard of the “sin of omission.” Well, here it is spelled out for us in this verse. We need to understand that striving to avoid sin is not just not doing certain things. It also includes doing what we know the Lord would have us do.

Let me give you an example in my life. Now I say “my life” because this might not be an omission on your part. That’s between you and the Lord. But for me this was. I was disobedient to the Spirit that I felt telling me to respond. Here’s what happened.

A week or so ago I was in a local grocery store about 15 minutes before closing. I had run in to buy a couple of items for a meal my wife was preparing for the family. You know – dash in and dash out.

One of the items was a pie (by the way, I love pie) that I had to get back in the Bakery/Deli area. When I got to that area there was one young man, probably in his late teens, who was busy restocking the pies and cookies. As usual, I said “Hey, how’s it going?” He replied very sarcastically, “Oh you know, just living the dream!”

Instantly, I felt the Spirit tell me to inquire further about what dream that was which could have easily led to a witnessing opportunity (the right thing to do). Instead, I said, “Okay, have a great night.” FAIL!!! I sinned. I should have taken the time to inquire.

I’m went back to that store to see if I can see that young man again and make this right. I couldn’t locate him. I prayed for him in the store, even though I didn’t know his name. I also prayed for forgiveness for this, because I want to “do the right thing.” How about you?

TEACHING MOMENT

Teach your children to be sensitive to God’s leading and respond immediately. Don’t wait for a convenient time. If God is leading you, He will give the words to say. If He has opened a door, walk through it.