What Your Reaction Reveals

Sometimes our reaction to correction reveals more about our heart than our religious actions ever could. Cain brought an offering to God, and so did Abel. Yet when God accepted Abel's offering and not Cain's, Cain became "very angry, and his countenance fell" (Genesis 4:5). Instead of asking what needed to change, Cain's response exposed the condition of his heart. We can fall into the same danger. We may worship, serve, give, and pray, yet become defensive when correction comes. Sometimes God corrects us directly through His Word and Spirit; sometimes He uses those He has placed around us. Our response reveals much about our hearts. Do we become defensive and offended, or do we humbly ask whether God is showing us something that needs to change? God told Israel, "I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings." (Hosea 6:6) Jesus later quoted this passage: "I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices." He came for those who recognise their need for mercy. (Matthew 9:13) God's mercy is endless – that is why Christ died for us. What He desires is a humble heart that acknowledges sin, receives His correction, and seeks forgiveness. Outward religion can change our behaviour, but only God has the power to change the heart. (Nicky B). Open Bible – bit.ly/Gen4v5, bit.ly/hos6v6, bit.ly/Mat9v13