Genesis 4 - 4.28.26
SCRIPTURE: Genesis 4:2b-7
“Now Abel kept flocks, Cain worked the soil. In the course of time Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord. And Abel also brought an offering - fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering He did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.”
OBSERVATION: When Adam and Eve sinned, they impacted all humanity by introducing sin into the world. Without a doubt, Cain and Abel brought their offerings because God had revealed to them the necessity of the offering. Their son Cain brought an offering to the Lord, and though the Bible doesn’t specifically say why Abel’s offering was regarded by the Lord, and Cain’s wasn’t, I noticed something that stood out! Abel’s offering included some of the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions, while Cain’s offering was some of the land’s produce; ordinary crops. God considered Abel’s offering better because it represented his “best”. It was the firstborn of his flock, reflecting his heart of devotion, whereas Cain’s offering was merely a routine sacrifice, potentially lacking sincerity and obedience. Abel brought a blood sacrifice, and Cain brought a bloodless sacrifice. (Got Questions.com).
“By Faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was approved as a righteous man, because God approved his gifts, and even though he is dead, he still speaks through his faith.” (Hebrews 11:4).
APPLICATION: “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” ( 1 Samuel 16:7b). The best offering we can possibly present to the Lord is our body; a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is our true and proper worship. God desires for us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds as we live to honor and glorify Him.
PRAYER: Dear God, You deserve my very best because of Who You are, and for all You’ve done for me! EVERYTHING I have is from You! May I be willing to offer You my entire life, and faithfully and cheerfully give back to You what You have required because of my genuine love and obedience to You. Amen
- Robin Orefice
