2019 is off to a rough start.  As you read this, I am on my way back from California having attended a dear friend’s funeral.  I am also aware of three families that have experienced a significant loss already.

Occasionally, I will share how I go through my Life Journal. This from Wednesday 2nd:

Scripture: Genesis 4:7 – If you do well, will you not be accepted?  And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door.  Its desire is contrary to you but you must rule over it.

Observations:  Adam and Eve had two children; Cain and Able.  Presumably after the fall, and after the two were adults (100 years or so?) they began to worship God and offer their own sacrifices.  They both offered from what they had, however God had no regard for Cain’s offering.  Somehow Cain was aware of this and he became angry.  There is no explanation given as to why his sacrifice was not accepted, which has led to much discussion.  God spoke to Cain, asking why was he angry and telling him how he could offer and acceptable sacrifice.  Too bad Cain did not listen.

Application:  I do not believe that whatCain offered was unacceptable, I do believe what made the sacrifice unacceptable was howit was offered.  We are told that the Lord loves a cheerful giver (2Cor 9:7).  Perhaps Cain made the sacrifice because he felt obligated to do so, or he could have done it to draw attention to how “spiritual” he was, or even because he expected God to give a greater gift back.  I am equally certain what Cain was felling had a negative impact on what he gave.

Prayer:  Father, when I give I hope I never do it improperly.  You have given me so much and I pray that I show it when I give back to You