Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.
James 4:17
Question
What is one clear thing God has shown you to do that you have not yet acted upon?
Context
The book of James speaks directly to believers who possess knowledge of God’s truth but struggle to live it out. In James 4, the focus is on humility, submission to God, and resisting self-centered living. James confronts the tendency to make plans without seeking God’s will and reminds us that faith is not just about what we believe, but how we respond to what we know.
James 4:17 shifts the focus from ignorance to responsibility. The issue is not what we don’t know, but what we do know and choose to ignore. God’s truth always calls for a response. Delayed obedience, selective obedience, or convenient obedience is still disobedience.
Application
Today’s verse reminds us that sin is not only committing wrong actions, but also neglecting the right ones. Faithfulness is often revealed in simple, quiet acts of obedience that no one else sees. A faithful life is not marked by perfection, but by responsiveness to God’s voice.
Ask yourself where God has already made His will clear. Is there a step of obedience you’ve been postponing? A conversation you’ve been avoiding? A habit you need to surrender? Today is an opportunity to act on what God has already shown you.
Truth For The Day
Obedience delayed is obedience denied.
Pray
Lord, forgive me for the times I have heard Your truth but failed to live it out. Give me a heart that responds quickly and humbly to Your direction. Help me not just to know what is right, but to do it faithfully. Shape my life into one of obedience that honors You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
