Text: Genesis 4:9 KJV
Further Reading: John 13:34-35, 1 John 3: 10-18
And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper?
Genesis 4:9
MESSAGE
The use of ‘Brother’ in our topic is generic, referring to both genders. Where is the love of the brethren today? In a twisted world in which siblings plot against another, should the love of Christ not manifest in us?
The Lord gave the command that we should love one another, but what we see is far from the love of God. Everyone seems to be looking out for his gain at the expense of weaker brothers and sisters.
Somehow the Bible equates hatred to murder (1 John 3:15). Though you may claim not to have murdered anyone but what about the people you hated. Have you not been tearing men down with your mouth because they offended you?
Love the Bible says is the fulfilment of the law – love for God and men (Romans 13:10). Do you not only love in words and not indeed? Where is the compassion towards the needy brother? Do you just send them away with prayers without refreshing them? (1 John 3:17, James 2:15-16).
Many brethren have been at the receiving end of this common behaviour today, they are dying silently because no one seems to be paying attention or at least care to know what they are going through. Some are widows and orphans who have been neglected.
Where then is the brotherly love? Where is the care that we are commanded to give to the needy? You have not seen a brother or sister in church for weeks and you do not care to check on the person or make a phone call through. This is not right.
Can you withhold help from someone in need when you can and still claim to love him or her? That is hypocrisy. Even when you do not have to give, have you taken time to pray for the person?
Are you a pastor or ministry head and God should ask you the question He asked Cain, what will your answer be? Do you know the state of the welfare of your members or team? Today you must repent and turn a new leaf.
We are indeed our brother’s keepers, the only proof of our discipleship is if we love the brethren as Jesus commanded us.
You must be deliberate and intentional about looking out for the brethren. If you have excess food material, share it with the brethren who have little. Always be ready to step up for someone, by so doing, people will know that you are a child of God.
If you have personally been affected by the lack of love from the brethren, do not be angry or nurture hatred, rather trust God to help you love more. Love covers a multitude of sins, let the love of God fill your heart.
REFLECTION
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Philippians 2:3
In an atmosphere where love is the air, unity, progress, and abundant blessings of God is never lacking. Mutual love and respect is binding cord and driving force that brings unity.
PRAYER
Father, please don’t let me be guilty of any of my brothers and sisters. Help me to be my brothers and sisters’ keeper.
