Bein’ Franklin

Posted by DaddyFranklin at August 5th, 2007

I wish we knew more about what it was about Cain’s offering that God did not approve of. What is it about Abel’s that he finds acceptable?

Clues:

• “Cain brought an offering to God from the produce of his farm. Abel also brought an offering, but from the firstborn animals of his herd, choice cuts of meat.” – Abel’s offering was off the top, the best. Because of the apparent contrast between the two verses, we are led to believe that Cain’s offering was not the cream of the crop, so to speak.
• God’s response was that he did not approve. But he says to Cain, “Work harder, don’t give up, don’t sulk, because sulking leads to sin. Sin is out to get you and if you don’t catch it early, it will destroy you.”

The lesson is not just about what is and is not acceptable to God. Even more it is about how sin takes hold and takes you places you don’t want to go. Cain knew the consequences of his actions; he expected to be killed for it. Even so, sin dragged him down. It didn’t start with rage, it built up to it, starting with self-pity and sulking. Who do you think Cain blamed for his offering not being acceptable? Just like his parents in the garden blamed someone else for their demise, I imagine that he felt it was Abel’s fault.

Take responsibility for your sin. Face it and expose it. Confess it and repent of it.

What is my sin? <<omitted from blog posting>>

How do I respond? Lay it before the cross and ask for forgiveness and help in dealing with all of these.