Rejecting Opportunity is Sin!

“Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth [it] not, to him it is sin.” (Jas 4:17 AV)

This verse is often quotes separate and apart from its context.  The principle is still the same.  If we know something is right to do, the we should do it.  If we do not do what we know to be right to do, then it is sin.  This is the simplest and most strait forward meaning of this verse.  However, the real power behind the verse is found in the context of the brevity of life.  James remarks that one’s life is but a vapor that soon passes away.  He then warns against bragging on tomorrow.  Making plans as though nothing will change and tomorrow will come.  Yet, the LORD may have a different plan.  Tomorrow may not come.  Our life may be over soon. Therefore, if one knows to do the right thing, he should do it because not to do it is sin and there is limited time.

Opportunity may come around only once.  Yesterday, we had the privilege to share a meal with our Missionaries to Germany.  When we were leaving, the cashier wanted to talk.  It was a Wednesday and therefore, a lot was on my plate.  Setting up for Kids’ Klub, running the bus, and setting up for the missionary all with about thirty minutes in which to accomplish it.  Needless to say, ministry to this soul was not on my mind because time was of the essence.  Yet, the missionary took the needed five minutes and as a result, we were able to give him a tract with the gospel clearly inside.

Time is limited.  Opportunities are limited.  Knowing what the right thing is comes first.  Knowing it is the right thing to take an opportunity is important.  Knowing also that time and opportunities are limited is wisdom.  Too many times we take too much time and the opportunity to do right passes us by.  If that is the case, God calls that sin!