Jesus, I Want to Love You Part 2Sýnishorn

Read Matthew 5:21-22 and Genesis 4:1-15, 25-26.

ANGER EQUALS MURDER

We have a hard time thinking of anger as a sin, particularly when we feel justified. (There is an appropriate anger, and we will look at that later. But if we’re honest, most of our anger does not fall into this category.) When someone betrays your trust, carelessly and repeatedly forgets to keep their commitments, lies to you, cuts you off on the highway, or wrongs you in some other way, how do you respond? Think for a moment about who or what causes you to struggle with hurt, anger, bitterness, or resentment. What change might you need to make in your relationships with:

Your spouse?

Your friends?

Your co-workers?

Your neighbors?

The story of Cain and Abel is the first account we have of mankind displaying anger. It is important to know, as you read, that Cain knew what was considered an acceptable sacrifice and yet he substituted his own. Ask yourself the following questions: What do you notice about Cain’s attitude? What questions does the Lord ask Cain? Why do you think He asks these questions? What do you think God wants you to learn from Cain’s actions and choices? What is He communicating through the recounting of Cain’s sin?

Cain proved by his actions that he was not a child of God (1 John 3:12). Nevertheless, we can still glean some “parenting” instruction from this passage. What can you learn about parenting your children from how God deals with Cain?

Cain disregarded the Lord’s warning and chose instead to follow through with the evil intent of his heart. His heart attitude blinded him and hardened his heart toward the Lord and his brother.

Anger arises from our hearts, and external circumstances only give an opportunity for it to express itself. Ask the Lord today to show you the attitude of your heart and those things that keep you from being able to respond in love and mercy. Sometimes we don’t want to give those things up; we want to hold onto them, believing we are justified. Be completely transparent with your Lord and ask Him to help you want to let go and to desire His way above your own. Ask Him to help you heed His warning so you will not be like Cain. Take a moment now to pray for those who frustrate, disappoint, and sin against you.