The Mark of Cain: God Showed Cain Mercy

Image by Gordon Johnson from Pixabay

The story of Cain and Abel is familiar to many. We know that Cain slew his brother because his sacrifice was favored above his own. We read of how God comes to Cain and pronounces judgment upon him. God told him that he would be a fugitive and a vagabond. Also, the ground would be cursed for him. After hearing these things, Cain cried out to God for he was afraid for him own life. God responds to him by placing a mark upon his head.

And the Lord set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him. Gen 4:15 (KJV)

Some have tried to compare Cain’s mark to the mark of the beast and other symbols, which are incorrect. The mark of Cain was a mark of God’s mercy. Though Cain was guilty, God was merciful to him that he would not reap the full return of what he had done. What is the point?

Many today are afraid of what is to come because of past sins, failures, and decisions. However, if they have returned to God, they do not have to fear the future. God set a mark upon Cain for mercy and Cain expressed no remorse for his acts. How much the more will God show mercy to those who come to Him in confession and repentance and humility? Do not be afraid, God will have mercy even in judgment if He is approached sincerely and honestly. Remember, the mark of Cain showed God’s mercy and not His anger.

Prayer of the Week:

“God, I thank you for your abundant mercy in my life. I will not take it for granted but give you my faith and devotion. Amen.”

Overcoming the Outbursts: Victory Over Self

 
Image by Robin Higgins from Pixabay

    Though this may not hold true for all, many in the Body of Christ have attributes and traits that must be overcome. The Christian’s life is to be characterized by moral uprightness and godly character; however, there are times when old ways, habits, and traits surface.

Like Moses’ outbursts of anger in the wilderness (he broke the tablets, he called Israel “rebels), Christians have outbursts of the flesh.

And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf, and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. Ex 32:19 (KJV)

    Moses was called the meekest man on the earth, yet his outbursts of anger stopped him from entering into Canaan. Today, look at your life. Are there areas where you still have “outbursts?” If so, come to God in faith knowing that He will help you to overcome all things, even if the main thing is yourself.

Prayer of the Week
:

“I thank you for your patience with me. I trust that you will help me with overcoming areas of weakness in my life. Amen”

When God Interrupts

Have you ever been watching a program and the phone rings? Have you ever sat down to eat only to hear a knock at the door or the ring of the doorbell? Interruptions are a part of life and they come at the most inopportune time? In these situations, how do you respond? 

Do you respond with peace and grace or with anger and contention? Abraham experienced an interruption in his life. However, it was not from man, but God.

Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee. Gen 12:1 (KJV)

Abraham was a rich man enjoying life with his family. Yet, God interrupted his life and its direction because of His will for him. Are you willing to allow God and your walk with Him interrupt your life? 

Many claim to love God and say they want to please Him, but do not allow Him to be an active participant in their lives. On today, heed God calls into His presence, allow Him to move you from your place of comfort into purpose.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me to be responsive to you. Though interruptions will come, I welcome your interruptions because you have a plan for my life. Amen.”