Read: Genesis 4:1-16

People often look down on Cain because his sin seems more evil than the sin we see in ourselves or others. God doesn't accept Cain’s sacrifice because he brings it on his own terms. Without considering why God wasn't pleased, Cain became furious. God’s response is, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it” (Genesis 4:6-7).

Even after God gives him instruction, Cain turns away and acts according to his feelings. Jealous of his brother’s relationship with God, he kills him. When God asks why he committed such a sin, Cain doesn't repent. Instead, he tries to deflect God’s conviction, denying he even knows what God is talking about.

If we’re honest, there’s been a time in our lives when we’ve done the same thing. Maybe you took a job when you knew God was leading you another direction. Or perhaps, you went out with someone God clearly told you not to date. Like Cain, we let fear, pride, comfort, stubbornness and jealousy keep us from following God’s instruction.

What’s beautiful about this story is the way God continues to correct and direct His children, even though we repeatedly turn from His voice to go our own way. Look at God’s response to Cain. He still gives Cain protection, not allowing anyone to kill him. Even when we act like Cain, ignoring God’s voice and slipping into sin, God continues to call and protect.

What is God correcting in your life? What is He asking you to do next? Yield yourself to the change God is patiently and mercifully offering.