A second chance. Cain was told by God what he needed to do to have his sacrifice accepted. Cain completely ignored what God said about him. He wasn’t interested in taking advantage of the second chance presented to him. He also ignored God’s warning that if he didn’t do right, sin was waiting to overtake him, but he could overcome it.
Cain chose to sin as if that would change God’s position about his unacceptable sacrifice. Cain chose to snuff out Abel’s life as if that would drown out God’s words and ease his jealousy. It wasn’t that he didn’t know how to correct his situation; he wasn’t interested in making things right with God. God offered Cain an amazing gift of a second chance. Sadly, he declined the offer.
As I read this, I thought about the times I resided in each camp. Yes, there were times when I embraced God’s directives like Abel and gave God exactly what He wanted. But then, there were times when I ignored some of the Lord’s directives, going about life as if I’d done all He had commanded. Yet, He was merciful and gave me the opportunity to turn around and give Him what He called for – an obedient heart giving an acceptable sacrifice. I took advantage of the second chance!
I thank the Lord for those times when I found myself in good company with Abel and gave Him what He wanted the first time. But I especially thank the Lord for those times when I, unlike Cain, found myself receiving an opportunity for a do-over, accepted God’s invitation, and gave Him an acceptable sacrifice!
12 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Romans 12:1 (KJV)
In the Master’s Service,
Pastor/Author Michele D Robertson
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Matthew 11:28-29 (KJV)