So it came about in the course of time that Cain brought an offering to the Lord of the fruit of the ground.
Abel, on his part also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions.
And the Lord had regard for Abel and for his offering; but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard.
So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.” Genesis 4:3-7
Cain’s misplaced anger and confusion led to the death of his very own brother. Have you ever wondered why God had regard for Abel’s offering and did not have regard for Cain’s? While I can’t be 100% sure about God’s complete intent, one thing is clear, He is God and he preferred one offering and did not prefer the other. Its high time we get this. God sets the rules and He has preference. He has intent, purpose, design and desire. Some people think whatever they bring to God is going to be accepted, even if its a outcome of their own imagination. This clearly is not the case. God is so gracious. I love how he leads Cain forward… if you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? I wish Cain would have taken the path of repentance.
What am I bringing to God? Is it what He desires?
Lord, I know that ‘a broken and contrite spirit, you will not despise’. I want to live my life as a pleasing sacrifice to You. Help me by Your indwelling Spirit to prompt me in my worship and devotion. Thank you for my wonderful family and joyful ministry. As I prepare to finish this day up, I want to say Thank You for a truly wonderful day. See You in the morning.
