Journal entry for January 10, 2026

And if you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you shall rule over it. Genesis 4:7

Heavenly Father, lately I've been thinking a lot about the struggles of this life. How hard it is living in a fallen world, trying to be pure in thought and action. There is so much deceit today. Scammers are constantly creating new ways to try to deceive people. I'm constantly reminded of the scripture which says in the latter days the deception will be so great that if possible even the very elect would be deceived.

As I am attempting to read through the Bible again this year I paused on this verse today. I am reminded from Genesis that as a result of Adam and Eve's sin, living in this world is work. Sin constantly is lurking about and its desire is to take over the mind and heart of each one.

I was particularly called to attention this morning by the statement "but you shall rule over it." It seems to rule over sin is to first of all recognize sins objective, and to see it for the threat that it is. Sins desire is to rule over us Lord. I think of James 1:15 when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it's full grown, brings for death. Do not be deceived....

There's a very good reason that you told Adam to rule over sin. Because it is either rule or be ruled. There is no treaty, no middle ground with sin. To flirt with sin is to be taken over by sin.

Father may I today take serious what it is to rule over sin. Help me to recognize it when it is at the desire stage, before it gives birth to sin even. Father help me to stay near You today so that Your light will be my guide and guardian. I pray in Jesus name. AMEN.