Genesis 4:3-7 (NIV) “In the course of time, Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the LORD. But Abel brought fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering, he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast. Then the LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? (If you do what’s right, Cain, you will find favor – add jwg) 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.”
We can see the connection between obedience and the favor of God. If you want the favor of God in your life, you need to begin the process of obeying what you know God wants you to do. We also see that obedience is part of the cure for anger. Even though Cain had done what was not acceptable, God still wanted to give him favor. Many times, even though we have not done what we should have, God still wants to provide us with favor. When you have the favor of God upon your life, family, and church, etc., it can make those who don’t have it angry and jealous. Remember, just because you have God’s favor does not mean you will not suffer. Abel had God’s favor, and it was Abel who was killed.
Also, remember you can be the best parent in the world, and your children can still make bad decisions. God was Adam and Eve’s father, and one of their children still murdered his brother. Abel, with his favor, would have instead been the one getting murdered and remembered for having the favor of God rather than being a murderer and being remembered as a murderer.
Today’s Challenge:
Is there an area God wants you to be obedient where He can show you favor? When other people have God’s favor, does it upset you or give you a desire to have it? What’s causing you to be so angry right now? Did you know doing what’s right and getting right with others can and will reduce anger?