It's just who I am.
A statement we hear often from people who likely see no hope for freedom from whatever it is that burdens them.
As Christ-followers and students of God's word, we have access to something that promises a different reality. A treasure that carries into eternity.
True freedom.
In Genesis, competition and envy entered the scene with the evidence of history's first murder. Cain's jealousy over Abel's apparent favored position with God was a poison that infected Cain's heart. Before the story is finished, Cain drew Abel into the field and struck him down, then buried him.
But before his anger led him to murder, the LORD spoke to him: "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it" (Genesis 4:6-7 NKJV).
Cain was being offered an opportunity to recognize the danger of being led by his emotions--a door to escape. In the next verse, we are told his choice. Murder. And then denial of the crime, as if the LORD couldn't see what happened.
It is conceivable to think Cain fully believed he had no choice, as it is also likely his grandson, Lamech, believed he had no choice when he took the life of another, saying it was because a young man wounded him (Genesis 4:19-24).
And on the story goes. Genesis through Revelation, insult - injury. It's who we are. What choice do we have? Offense deserves repercussions. Seed and harvest. Eye for an eye. It's not my fault. I had no choice.
IF it's true, then why did God tell Cain he needed to rule over it? Is it possible we are missing something?
In and of ourselves, we are born into sin, mired in clay, unable to save our own souls from the fires of hell. It is a slippery slope when we begin to accept that this is our lot in life and we should just follow the course our deceitful hearts guide us on.
Genesis 3:14-15 promises One will come and will "bruise his head" (v. 15). In Matthew, Jesus comes on scene, offering a way out. He would extend a hand of healing with the words, "sin no more," as if saying, "You do have a choice" (John 8:11). Romans 6, Galatians 5, Colossians, Revelation, and likely other places not listed, exhort the Christ-follower to live in the freedom won by Jesus.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. ~Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV
So if in Christ, a choice is given and freedom is available, the answer is plain.
What choice do I have?
When life feels heavy and the clouds hide the sun. Choose joy.
When friends ghost you and acquaintances don't understand. Or the stranger offends you. Choose forgiveness.
When your heart is broken and you don't know where to turn. Choose trust. There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. He has promised never to leave. Never will he forsake you. He alone is worthy of all of your trust. Men/Women will inevitably fail. Trust the Lord with your heart, your life, and all that comes with it.
It's not easy, but it's worth it.
Until next time.Karlene J 💝
