Today's Verse: James 4:17

Friday, April 17, 1964

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Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
— James 4:17
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Thoughts on Today's Verse...

James' brother, Jesus, taught this principle when he healed on the Sabbath (Mark 3:1-7) and told the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37). If we have the opportunity and ability to do good to someone in need, then if we don't do it, then we are participating in their destruction. The Lord made it clear that neglecting to do a good deed for another in need, even if we had a religious excuse for not doing it, was doing evil. Let's be a people known for doing good deeds and sharing kindness. Let's not let any excuse, especially a religious excuse, interfere with our opportunities to serve others in the name of Jesus.

My Prayer...

Dear Father, please use me today to bless someone in need so they can know your grace and glorify Jesus for his goodness. In the Savior's sweet and precious name, I pray. Amen.

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9 Related Resources by Heartlight

Failure to Do What You Know Is Right Is Sin
Devo: Spiritual Warfare
"So any person who knows what is right to do but does not do it, to him it is sin."
Sin of Omission
Illustration of James 4:17
Inspirational illustration of James 4:17 -- Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
Ouch! You're Stepping on My Toes
Article by Sarah Stirman
Does God ever use Scripture to step on your toes? We make all these plans and get upset when they don't unfurl like we want, but God often has other plans!
Things That Matter
Article by Rubel Shelly
What is really important as you go to face your week? So much of what we work for really doesn't matter, so let's invest in what does, the people around us.
See All 9 Related Resources about James 4:17

Illustration

Illustration of James 4:17 — Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.

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About This Devotional

Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

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