Definition: If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee [shall be] his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 4:7 together. It's a really important passage that speaks to our responsibility for our choices and the potential consequences of our actions. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that we are responsible for our own actions, and if we act wisely and justly, we will be blessed; but if we act poorly or sin, God’s desire is to punish us. It's a warning about the importance of ethical behavior. Let’s unpack it word by word: “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted?” - This means that if you make good choices and live righteously, God will favor you and protect you. It suggests a sense of blessing and protection from God's wrath. “and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door.” – This is the crucial part. It means that if we make bad choices, then there’s a risk of sin happening. “Sin” here refers to wrongdoing, disobedience, or breaking God's rules. “And unto thee [shall be] his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.” – This is the most dramatic part. It means that if you act justly and wisely, God will desire (want) to use you in a special way. It also implies a position of power or leadership. Essentially, God wants to have you as his representative or even as ruler. In simpler terms: God is watching us and offering blessings to those who act morally and responsibly. However, if we make bad choices or disobey him, there’s a risk that sin will happen, and then God might punish us with something like loss or hardship. The Big Takeaway: This verse encourages us to strive for good behavior and to think carefully about our actions because it implies a potential reward – the blessing of God – if we do so. It’s a reminder that our choices have consequences, both positive and negative. --- Resources for Further Exploration (Optional): Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+4:7](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+4:7) - This allows you to read the verse in multiple translations and see how it’s interpreted across different Christian traditions. The Bible Project: [https://thebibletproject.com/2018/03/26/genesis-4-7-verse-of-promise/](https://thebibletproject.com/2018/03/26/genesis-4-7-verse-of-promise/) - They offer a helpful visual explanation of the verse’s meaning. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its historical context (how it relates to the story of Adam and Eve)? Explore how this verse applies to our daily lives?