With a Subtitle: Is there something you need to do that you've never done before?
A brief Excerpt: Genesis 4:7 warns that sin is ever-present, urging us to master it and choose righteousness, especially towards fellow believers. We are called to act righteously, especially towards our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Scripture
Our verse for today comes from Genesis 4:7, “If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.”
Background
So many times we have heard the mighty who have fallen say, “Oh, if I had only known.” Even in our own lives, we think back over our choices and have plenty of times where we wish that someone had just warned us. If only we knew the consequences, we say, maybe things would have been different. But for me, the more predominant track record is one of hearing the warnings and choosing to do just what I had planned all along. In hindsight, we might think that a little more information may have made all the difference in the world. But actually, in most cases I had all I needed in order to make the right choice, except the will to make it. And such is the case for Cain. Terribly upset and angry over God’s rejection of his offering, Cain receives a visit from God. His heavenly Grandfather comes to him, much like our grandfathers today might do, and reaches out to him in his grief. God acknowledges that Cain is upset but goes on to explain that there is still every chance for him to be restored and accepted. But Cain is also warned that if he chooses wrong, the sin that prevented him from growing up in Eden is waiting to have him.
Application
Now, if you were to receive warning and advice directly from the God of the universe, you probably would say that you would follow it. Why wouldn’t you? Of course you would. But then, why haven’t you? Why is there still in you that sinful habit or defiant will? Cain’s offering to God was not honoring, and when he was rejected, his heart did not do the right thing and confess. Then the sin that was waiting for him went with him to the field, instead of being left behind, and led him to kill his brother. Now we would never kill our brother, but what are we doing to our brothers in Christ? Ignoring them? Avoiding the ones with problems, who actually reveal they need help? Staying home while a few do all the work of the church? We have been warned, so choose what is right. And then do it.
Charge
As we seek Him today, could this be the day when your faith moves you to act for Him? Is there something you need to do that you’ve never done before? Do what is right, and find Him.
Salvation – Eternal Life in Less Than 150 Words
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