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The usual method of cataloging sins is to list instances in which one does something he should not do. While a sensitivity to wrong actions is necessary, it touches only part of the problems. Bible-taught Christians know that failing to do what one ought to do is equally sinful.

The Bible defines "Sin" as the transgression of the law of God (I John 3:4). Refusing to do what God's law commands is just as rebellious as engaging in what God's law forbids. "Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, to him it is sin" (James 4:17). God consider sins of omission just as reprehensible as sins of commission, for the underlying attitude is the same in both instances.

A problem arises when a person receives so much instruction concerning what he should not so that he concludes that doing nothing is a prized virtue. Defining spirituality only in terms of what one abstains from shows neither a Biblical balance nor a positive devotion to the Lord. For instance, Ephesians 5:19 states, "Be not drunk with wine, in which is excess, but be filled with the Spirit." Few true Christians would violate the clear prohibition against drunkenness, but equally few show genuine concern over being filled with the Holy Spirit. Both portions of the verse are couched in imperative terms, so that neglecting the positive is as serious as violating the negative.

Titus 2:12, another example, teaches that God's grace is "instrucing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desire, and to live sensibly, righteously, and godly in this present age." one cannot live to please God without denying ungodliness and worldly desires. But at the same time, God expects the Christians to live sensibly, righteously, and godly. Christ warned against attempting to cleanse one's life of evil without filling it with righteousness, declaring that the person will revert to his former wickedness, only on a more intense scale (Matthew 12:43-45).

The same Word of God that forbids certain evil activities likewise instructs hearty involvement in holy ones. "How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Thy Word" (Psalm 119:9).

The Scripture was given so that Christians would be "equipped for every good work" (II Timothy 3:17). Paul urged believers not only to put off characteristics of the old life, but also to put on the traits of the new life (Colossians 3:8-17). Claiming ignorance of God's expectations does not relieve one of responsibility; it merely shows one's further guilt in neglecting God's Word.

Avoiding the dual aspects of sin - commission and omission - can become an obsession to the point of causing a nervous or emotional crisis. This type of obsession is unbiblical because it reveals an attempt to conquer sin in one's own power rather than trusting God for the necessary strength and guidance. The unhealthy obsession gives way to healthy obedience when a Christian truly trusts God (1 Corinthians 10:13), learns the Scripture (Psalm 119:11), confesses his sins for forgiveness (1 John1:7, 9) , and lives by faith (Romans 1:17).

Recognizing that omitting righteousness is just as sinful as committing unrighteousness will instill a new vitality in a Christian's spiritual life. Apathy will be successfully challenged, and the joy of sacrificial service will become increasingly meaningful.