Text: Genesis 4:11-26
In this chapter, we read of Cain killing his younger brother, Abel. Abel’s offering to Yahweh was accepted; but Cain’s offering was rejected (vv.4-5). So out of jealousy and anger, Cain killed Abel. The punishment Cain received was in two
parts: 1). the ground would no longer produce for him; and 2). he would be driven away. Let us consider #1. Because work reflects something of the image of God, having no work is a curse, it is misery.
Some people might think it is good not to work. Perhaps they see work as a burden, and perhaps for some it is. But saying it is a burden implies they know work should be a good thing. Perhaps some think it would be nice just to sit
around all day and do nothing. But our Redeemer, Jesus, did not see it that way. He was always working, as was His Father (John 5:15; 9:14). Jesus’ work was ministry, not labor, but it is still work, difficult work, but He embraced it
and completed it faithfully. We also must do our work heartily for the Lord (1 Cor.10:31; Col.3:17). We must do our work as worship.
Meditate on verse 12. What is God teaching you in this verse?
Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, help me to live a righteous life in this cursed world, working heartily for You. Amen.