Tuesday; July 2

When we think about the world in which we live, we may be convinced that we are surrounded by violence, but the truth is that violence has always been an issue.  In fact, the first family on the earth had to deal with murder.  Many of us are familiar with the story of Cain killing Abel because God valued Abel’s sacrifice more than He did Cain’s.  The story of the first murder is found in Genesis 4, but there is an interesting exchange between God and Cain prior to the killing.  In warning Cain God observes, “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 4:6-7).  Cain didn’t heed the warning and he killed his brother. 
As I got to thinking about this interaction I was intrigued by the question God asked Cain – why are you angry?  I don’t think that God was looking for Cain to justify his actions as much as He was warning him about the danger of his emotions.  This question rings true through today.  In essence, when we get mad at others, what gives us the “right” to be angry?  Sure, we might be able to justify it in our own mind, but does our rationale make sense to God?  And, even it does (which might be a stretch), we should be reminded of God’s warning of how when we are angry “sin is crouching at the door”.
Are we struggling with anger?  Let’s overcome it before it overwhelms us.
          Think About It!

Popular posts from this blog

Thursday; May 3

Thursday; February 14

Thursday; October 19