Day 199: A Brother’s Offense
Proverbs 18:19
A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle.
Principle
When a brother turns away from you, don’t underestimate their offense.
Every time I read the story of Cain and Abel – I am stunned – completely in awe at the hatred that sprung from jealousy and antipathy within Cain’s soul. What could have caused such animus within him?
Amazingly it was an offering. Yes… the first murder committed was a fratricide – a brother murdering a brother.
Cain’s jealousy arose out of comparison. Cain gave a tokened offering unto the Lord – it wasn’t anything special, just something left over, an afterthought. However, Abel offered the firstborn of his flock. It was his best, most prized possession. It was the first of all of his labor. It represented so much – it meant everything else that would follow.
God looked with favor upon Abel, yet, Cain’s offering didn’t receive God’s blessing. Why should it? It wasn’t right. It wasn’t unique. It was an offensive gesture. So, rather than correcting his character flaw of ingratitude, stinginess, and arrogance, Cain’s anger exploded into premeditated murder.
Remember:
Cowards see a brother's pursuit of excellence as an offense - champions see it as a goal. Click To Tweet
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