Monday, January 9, 2017
Daily reading assignment: Genesis 4-7
Today’s Bible reading covers a broad scope of historical fact from Eve giving birth to the first sons born of Adam’s seed, Cain, Abel, and Seth (Genesis 4:1-2, 26) to Noah and his families’ entrance into the Ark as the universal flood destroyed all life on the earth with the exception of Noah’s family and the animals that entered the Ark (Genesis 7). Given the wealth of truth we find in today’s reading assignment (Genesis 4-7), I could spend months writing devotionals on these chapters, but alas, I must limit myself to a brief highlight of one thought I trust will be a blessing.
I invite you to ponder the conversation between God and Cain, Adam and Eve’s firstborn son, after he had slain his brother Abel (Genesis 4:8). We read:
Genesis 4:9 – And the LORD [Jehovah] said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper [watchman; guard; keeper]?
God’s question presented Cain an opportunity to confess his egregious sin; however, Cain was insolent and responded with defiance.
What an incredible insight we are given into not only the effect of sin, but also the callous heart of sinners. Cain was the firstborn of Adam after the fall; however, in one generation the depth of wickedness seeded in his heart astounds us as we see the consequences of Adam and Eve’s sin in the sinful nature of their son.
Consider Cain’s audacious question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:9). His intent was to shirk accountability for his sin; however, are you and I any different? Are we not also guilty of the same when it comes to our responsibility for our brethren? I am afraid the majority of Christians have that same response when we observe fellow believers going astray from the Truth and the way of righteousness. Yes, we are our “brother’s keeper”. Paul taught the Thessalonica believers they had a shared responsibility for their brethren, especially those who were spiritually struggling.
1 Thessalonians 5:14 – Now we exhort you, brethren, warn [admonish] them that are unruly [disorderly; rebels], comfort [encourage] the feebleminded [fainthearted; easily discouraged; quitters], support [i.e. take by the hand; hold them up; stand beside] the weak [weak in character], be patient [longsuffering; don’t give up] toward all men.
Do you know someone struggling? Love them; pray for them; and as God gives you opportunity, be their “Keeper”, guardian, and friend.
Copyright 2017 – Travis D. Smith