Message from Scripture: 6/26/2020

Today’s message from Scripture comes from Gen. 4:5-6; 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.”

What a contrast we find in this passage of Scripture regarding Cain and Abel. Although these two brothers are part of the original family on earth, human nature doesn’t change. What motivated them to live as they did, still motivates people today, as to how we respond to God’s will for our lives.

Abel’s offering of the firstborn of his flock to God was more than just his being a keeper of sheep; it was of faith (Heb. 11:4a). He was doing the will of God, because “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:17). Abel pleased God because he humbled himself to the will of God, and obeyed what God said must be done.

It’s amazing to consider Cain was of the first family on earth, and could have heard the stories from his parents about walking with God and what fellowship with Him in the garden was like. He could also have been told what the consequences of sin were, being forced from the garden, cast out of the paradise they had been given. Cain, however, chose to follow his own will rather than God’s. Cain killed Abel, as if he was showing God He would have to accept his offering, now that his brother was gone. His heart is further revealed when he is cursed by God, but complains about being punished for his actions!

We have one of two choices to make when it comes to having a relationship with God, but it’s only a desire for righteousness that will commend us to God. Let’s choose to be like Abel, and have a real relationship with God that will last for an eternity. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert