THE PEOPLE IN THE BEGINNING: CAIN AND ABEL

Choices… choices… choices. Life is an unending series of choices. Daily we come to the “Y” in the road. Right or left? Do this or do that? Today, as we stand at the “Y”, will we submit to God in trusting obedience or will we reject Him in rebellion? Right or left? Right or wrong? “Thy will” (Matthew 6:10, KJV) or my will?

The story surrounding the second generation of humanity is the story of choices. Cain and Abel, the sons of Adam and Eve, made life-altering choices.

Both boys brought an “offering to the Lord” (Genesis 4:3). Although the Bible hadn’t yet recorded God’s explicit command to offer sacrifices at His altar, they obviously knew of their Creator’s desire. Both brought a gift to God.

Abel, a shepherd, “presented an offering—some of the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions. The Lord had regard for Abel and his offering” (Genesis 4:4). At the same time, “Cain presented some of the land’s produce as an offering to the Lord” (Genesis 4:3). The Almighty “did not have regard for Cain and his offering” (Genesis 4:5).

God’s response was different because the boy’s motivation was different. “The Lord searches every heart and understands the intention of every thought” (1 Chronicles 28:9).

Jesus declared, “God knows your hearts” (Luke 16:15).

Abel chose to worship. “I freely give the best because I have nothing that God hasn’t graciously and generously given to me.”

Cain chose to appease. “I grew it … I know I’m supposed to … I’ll reluctantly give some of what is rightfully mine … maybe this will make Him happy …”

Abel “was approved as a righteous man” (Hebrews 11:4) and Cain was banished from God’s presence (Genesis 4:13-14).

Choose wisely. “Oh Lord, not my will, but Thy will!”

“… think on these things” (Philippians 4:8, KJV).