The sudden flare of anger in my heart is always evidence of something that God wants to accomplish in me–some change or transformation that will bring him glory.
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Scripture
Genesis 4:4-7
“…and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? 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.”
Observation
Cain and Abel each brought a sacrifice to God, but only Abel’s sacrifice was accepted. Why? Scripture doesn’t say. All we know is that Cain didn’t “do well”…and because his sacrifice was rejected, he became angry. Though God was the one who rejected the offering, Cain directed his anger at his brother. He didn’t ‘rule over’ the sin which was crouched and waiting, and he committed the first murder in recorded history.
Application
Rejection never feels good. When the thing that I bring isn’t ‘good enough’, my emotions flare quickly…and anger swiftly follows. Sometimes though, the rejection is self-inflicted. Whether self-inflicted or not, that sudden flare of anger in my heart is always evidence of something that God wants to accomplish in me–some change or transformation that will bring him glory. When I reject his correction and stubbornly continue on my path, nothing good can result. Instead, I must cultivate a heart of humility which welcomes the correction he brings-knowing that he is waiting to welcome and accept me when I submit to him.
Prayer
God, thank you for the ‘check engine light’ you’ve placed in my heart. When my emotions flare and anger surges, show me the place in my heart that you’re working on so that I can choose to submit to your authority in my life. Today I choose to welcome the correction that you bring!
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