WORSHIP REQUIRES GIVING

There are two kinds of worship: “Cain Worship” and “Abel Worship”. Let’s see…

After Adam and Eve sinned, “they knew they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves” (Genesis 3:7). This wasn’t worship… it was religion; their fruitless effort to hide their shame and make themselves acceptable to God.

To atone for their sin, God sacrificed animals to make fur coats. This introduced the sacrificial system whereby blood is shed to pay the awful price for our rebellious deeds.

With this background, we find the sons of Adam worshipping. You can read the story in the fourth chapter of Genesis. Abel followed God’s example by giving a blood sacrifice… something of abundant value… something in keeping with God’s example. He faithfully and selflessly responded to God’s glory and grace by obediently giving to the Lord. He worshipped. “Abel Worship” is obedient and sacrificial. It is authentic worship!

While Abel gave a spotless lamb, Cain gave a basket of rutabagas, or Brussel sprouts, or black-eyed peas… something that grew out of the cursed earth (Genesis 4:3).

Abel gave to God the thing that God wanted. Cain brought to God what Cain wanted. Abel brought glory to God. Cain brought glory to himself. “Look God, I brought You evidence that I’m a great farmer! You should be proud of me!”

Is it possible to worship and not bring honor to God? Do we sing to demonstrate our great musical ability? Do we give to demonstrate our generosity, and do we only give what is readily available and that which costs us little?

Today, as we contemplate the cross and the empty grave, we mustn’t be guilty of “Cain Worship.” We must be moved to selflessly, sacrificially give our best, to give obediently, to give lavishly. And I’m not just talking about money. We give our tithes, our time, and our talents! Do we give the best of our time and talents?

Let’s practice “Abel Worship” … authentic worship.

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