Cain. Abel.

This scripture always bothered me... 

It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith. (Hebrews 11:4 NLT)

I could never understand how Abel's offering was by faith... But look at this:

Scripture of the Day:

Later she gave birth to his brother and named him Abel. When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. (Genesis 4:2 NLT)

Abel chose the same occupation Christ had... Tho he could not see Christ. Cain chose to work the dirt.. His daddy had just been cursed to do so. By choosing to cultivate the ground, Cain said, "I'm cursed... Let me go on with the ways of the world.. I could go in faith and walk in the ways of redemption, but nah... I'm going to do my own thing and tell God to bless it." So when he offered his offering, God was like... No... 

It wasn't offered in faith. Cain was chasing his own agenda... Yet wanted God to bless it.. Like saying, "Lord, I know you want me to do x... But I'm going to do y, soooo..." 

How often do I do that in my own life... I know God wants me to forgive people... But I chose not to... And then take that choice, that bitterness to God as an offering... That's not right... 

I need to walk in faith as Abel did... Not go by what I can see, but instead model after the visible image of the invisible God, Christ. 

Prayer of the day:

Father, help me see You and help me see myself created in that image. Less of me. More of You. 

Trouble Don't Last Always

Life gets rough. 

Sometimes the demands on humans seem like it's too much to bear... When we feel overwhelmed we look for outlets to ease the pain. Alcohol... Drugs... Cigaretts... Sex... Chocolate... Whatever floats your boat... These outlets are nothing more than a bandaid on a wound. They do not heal. They can numb us towards reality to make it "easier" to go on. If I may, I would like to encourage us to not give up and not give in to the pressures of this world. Yes, it gets hard! That does not mean we have to force ourselves to do something unhealthy to get through... Jesus promises to help us out. 

Scripture of the day!

In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. (1 Peter 5:10 NLT)

Happy New Year

I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord ’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces. In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; he saved me from all my troubles. For the angel of the Lord is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! (Psalms 34:1-8 NLT)