Cain and Abel - Giving

Cain and Abel

Genesis 4:1-16

 

       Adam and Eve, the first man and woman, had two sons: Cain, the elder, and Abel, the younger. Cain was a farmer, working the ground to grow crops, while Abel was a shepherd, caring for flocks of sheep.

        One day, both brothers brought offerings to God. Cain offered fruits from his harvest, while Abel brought the firstborn of his flock and the best of what he had. God was pleased with Abel's offering because it came from a place of faith and devotion, but He was not pleased with Cain's offering, which lacked sincerity of heart.

 

Cain became very angry and jealous of Abel. God noticed Cain’s anger and warned him, saying, "If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door." (Genesis 4:7). However, Cain let his anger fester.

 

One day, while they were in the field, Cain attacked Abel and killed him. It was the first murder recorded in the Bible. God confronted Cain, asking, **"Where is Abel thy brother?" Cain responded, "I know not: Am I my brother's keeper?"

 

God, seeing Abel’s blood crying out from the ground, punished Cain. He cursed the ground so it would no longer yield its strength to him and made Cain a wanderer on the earth. Cain, fearful of being killed by others, pleaded for mercy. God showed him grace by marking him with a protective mark so no one would harm him.

 

Cain left God’s presence and lived in the land of Nod, east of Eden.

 

This story teaches important lessons about jealousy, sin, and God’s justice and mercy. It reminds us to examine our hearts, be mindful of our choices, and treat others with love

God desires our love, faith, and devotion more than any material offerings. This profound truth is reflected throughout the Bible. For example, in 1 Samuel 15:22, Samuel reminds us: "Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." .

 

It’s not about the outward act but the inward attitude. A heart surrendered to God, filled with love and obedience, is what truly pleases Him. Jesus also emphasizes this in **Mark 12:30, saying, *"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment."

 

It’s a beautiful reminder that God longs for a genuine relationship with us—one rooted in trust, love, and faithfulness—beyond any ritual or act of giving. Have you had moments where you felt God teaching you this truth? I'd love to hear your story!

 

Cain's story indeed illustrates that outward actions, like giving an offering, mean little if they don't come from a heart of love, faith, and obedience to God. Cain's offering was rejected not because of what he gave, but because of the attitude behind it. He wanted to approach God on his own terms rather than in the way God desired.

 

This stands as a reminder for all of us: true worship isn't about simply going through the motions or doing what we feel is enough. God looks at the heart. As Jesus said in John 4:24, "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."

 

Cain’s choice contrasts with Abel’s. Abel’s offering was accepted because it was given with faith and reverence (as mentioned in Hebrews 11:4). This shows us that loving and trusting God is foundational to our relationship with Him.

 

It’s a powerful lesson—both a warning and encouragement—that God desires not just our actions, but our devotion and faith.

. As Hebrews 11:4 explains, "By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh." Abel's actions showed his genuine devotion and trust in God’s ways.

 

Cain, on the other hand, seemed to lack the same heartfelt faith and obedience, choosing to give to God on his own terms. This difference highlights how God values the condition of our hearts more than the mere act of giving.

 

Abel's story still speaks to us today—reminding us that love, faith, and obedience to God are the foundation of a life that pleases Him. It's a call to reflect on our own hearts when we worship or give to God.

 It beautifully aligns with God's teachings throughout Scripture. Each aspect of giving—what we give, why we give, that we give, and how we give—reflects the condition of our hearts and our relationship with God.

 

- What we give: God calls us to give our best, just as Abel gave the firstborn of his flock. It's not about the size or material value of the gift, but about offering something meaningful and sincere to honor Him.

 

- Why we give: Our motives matter deeply. Are we giving out of love and gratitude to God, or out of obligation or for recognition? As 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us, "God loveth a cheerful giver." Giving with the right heart glorifies Him.

 

- That we give: Giving is an act of obedience and trust. When we give, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from God and that He will provide for us. It's a way to participate in His work and bless others.

 

- How we give: The spirit in which we give—whether joyfully, willingly, and humbly—shows our faith and love for God. Jesus praised the widow who gave two small coins because she gave with humility and sacrifice (Mark 12:41-44).

 

It all comes back to the heart. God doesn't need our offerings, but He desires the love, trust, and obedience they represent. This principle transforms not just our giving, but every aspect of our walk with Him.

 Cain and Abel lived long before the Ten Commandments were given to Moses on Mount Sinai, but they still understood the importance of loving and obeying God. This understanding likely came from their parents, Adam and Eve, who had walked with God in the Garden of Eden and knew His ways.

 

Their story shows us that God's principles—love, obedience, and faith—have been foundational since the very beginning. Abel demonstrated his love and obedience through his sincere and faithful offering, giving his best to God out of devotion. Cain, on the other hand, struggled with following God's will, choosing to worship on his own terms, which led to jealousy, anger, and ultimately tragic consequences.

 

The story reminds us that, even without written laws, a heart tuned to God can understand and strive to honor Him. It also teaches us that loving and obeying God isn't just about following rules; it's about the relationship and sincerity of our hearts. Would you like to explore more on this topic? Let me know!

 

    The story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:1-16  portrays the first recorded murder in human history, and it was indeed fueled by jealousy. Cain became envious of his brother Abel because God accepted Abel's offering but not his own. Rather than addressing the issues within his own heart—his lack of sincerity and obedience—Cain allowed jealousy to consume him, leading to anger and ultimately to Abel's tragic death.

 

This story serves as a solemn reminder of how unchecked emotions, such as envy and anger, can lead to destructive actions. It also emphasizes God's justice and mercy. Even though Cain committed a terrible sin, God placed a mark on him to protect him from others seeking vengeance, showing that while God disciplines, He also extends grace.

 

It teaches us to guard our hearts against jealousy and instead celebrate others' successes, trusting in God's love and plan for each of us.

 

Susan Barker Nikitenko –

May 2025©

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 The Missing Sons

Closing Prayer  

Our Father in Heaven,

If there is anyone here who has not yet given their heart to You, I pray that You stir within them a longing to know You fully. You are a loving and merciful God, always ready to receive those who come to You. May Your presence touch every heart, drawing them closer to Your truth, grace, and salvation.  

Lord, thank You for the gift of Your unconditional love. We acknowledge that without You, we are incomplete, wandering, and weighed down by life’s burdens. But with You, we find peace, purpose, and the strength to live according to your purpose and not our own in faith. May we not be stubborn in our devotion, but instead surrender our whole selves to You, trusting that Your plans are always for our good. Help us live an obedient life. 

Help us, Lord, to reflect Your love, joy, and kindness in all that we do. Let the Fruit of Your Spirit grow within us, shaping our thoughts, words, and actions so that we may honor You in every aspect of our lives. May we be lights in this world, showing others the beauty of a life fully committed to You.  

For those seeking salvation, Lord, may they open their hearts and receive You as their Savior. May they feel the assurance of Your forgiveness, the warmth of Your embrace, and the promise of eternal life. Let today be the day they take their first step in faith, knowing that Your love never fails and Your grace is more than enough.  

We thank You for the blessings You pour into our lives and for the peace You give us when we rest in You. May we walk forward with confidence, fully trusting in You, and living in the joy of Your presence.  

In Jesus name, Amen.

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