You Can’t or You Won’t?

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

I’ve noticed as I’ve reached the half century mark that there are things that I just can’t do anymore. It can be humbling to have to say “I used to be able to do that”. There is a reality in the word can’t but there is also a way of excusing ourselves from doing what we should be doing.

In the 14^th chapter of Luke Jesus makes a distinction between the two. He tells a parable of an invitation to a “great supper” in which I would imagine has an importance of attendance and would be disrespectful not to come. He tells about different reasons people make in order excuse themselves. They, like us sometimes use the word can’t when we really mean won’t.

Working with men in the colony I have challenged them with exchanging the word can’t with won’t. Many times when confronted with the reality the verse “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin” is appropriate. Like my limitations due to physical realities there are things I can’t do but if the word won’t fits then we have a heart issue. Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 21, the day after the triumphal entry about two sons, one of which when asked to come work for him says “I won’t”. Later he is remorseful and changes his mind.

The same is true of us, if I admit that it’s really won’t, and not can’t the Holy Spirit can convict my heart and cause me to repent, which means to turn around and walk in the right direction. If I choose to settle with can’t then I leave no room for change. I believe if we are honest and stop making excuses the work of God’s kingdom would be evenly distributed and much less burdensome. So let’s start the day with “yes I can” attitude and watch how God will be glorified.

Daily Bible Reading: Job 29-31

Think About This: “Don’t’ let your fears steal your compassion.  Lack of compassion leads to ingratitude!  Let the Love of Christ conquer your fears, so your joy will lead you to overflowing gratitude, aleluya”!!! – Manny Mill

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow about His promises, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:8-9