As early as chapter four of the Bible, we see how humans can turn cruel and resort to ultimate violence even against their own. The sons of Adam, Abel and Cain, take on different vocations. Cain tills the soil, while Abel tends sheep. Cain brings some of his crops to God, but Abel brings his best. This isn't about what they offered but the motive behind it. Abel brings the finest of his flock with gratitude, while Cain offers some of his crops with a half-hearted attitude.

God, who searches everyone's heart and examines their minds, accepts Abel's offering and rejects Cain's. The rejection fuels Cain's anger. Cain is angry at God. He can't get revenge on God. So he directs his rage at Abel, even though Abel didn't wrong Cain. It's not like Abel cheated or cursed Cain. Or took what was rightfully Cain's. Still, Cain's anger festers because God accepted Abel's gift and rejected Cain's.

God tries to counsel Cain, advising him that doing right will lead to acceptance. He warns Cain that sin is lurking, ready to control him, but he must master it. Ignoring God's advice, Cain murders Abel.

Don't we see this ancient story playing out today? Often, we resent others for their blessings—looks, wealth, talents—and let jealousy consume us. Even though these fellow humans, and they could even be our siblings, have not wronged us, we hate them because we perceive they are somehow more gifted than us. Instead of mending our mind, we want to destroy their blessings. Worse, sometimes we want to take their life.

Master your negative emotions before they ruin your life. And your family.

#meditation #christianity