“And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?”
In this verse, we find the Lord speaking to Cain, who was the son of Adam and Eve. To understand the context of this verse, let’s briefly recap what happened before this conversation. Cain and his brother Abel both brought offerings to the Lord: Abel offered a lamb from his flock in faith, while Cain offered fruits of the ground. The Lord respected Abel’s offering, but He did not respect Cain’s offering (Genesis 4:3-5).
Now, let’s delve into the key points of Genesis 4:6:
Cain’s anger: The Lord begins by asking Cain, “Why art thou wroth?” This question reveals that Cain was angry or resentful. Cain’s anger stemmed from the fact that his offering was not accepted by God while Abel’s was. Cain’s heart was filled with jealousy and frustration.
Fallen countenance: The Lord also asks Cain, “Why is thy countenance fallen?” Here, countenance refers to one’s facial expression or appearance. God notices a change in Cain’s expression and demeanor. Cain’s disappointment and anger are visible on his face, reflecting his troubled state of mind.
This verse provides a glimpse into Cain’s emotional turmoil following the rejection of his offering. It highlights the importance of proper motives and attitudes when approaching God in worship or obedience. God desires a sincere heart and the right spirit rather than mere outward actions.
It is worth noting that the Lord does not immediately condemn or punish Cain in this verse. Instead, He engages in a conversation with him to address his anger and discontentment. This interaction sets the stage for the subsequent events and consequences that unfold in the story of Cain and Abel.
Overall, Genesis 4:6 serves as a reminder for us to examine our hearts and motivations when we come before God. It encourages us to cultivate a humble and willing spirit, seeking to please Him with sincerity rather than being driven by envy or anger.
