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A story of Cain and AbelThe story of the two sons of Adam and Eve is one of the best known in the Bible and holds important spiritual lessons. The story is found in the book of Genesis, chapter 4, and tells of the offerings made by the two brothers to God. The difference between these offerings, and the consequences of them, have generated discussion and reflection over the centuries. But what exactly makes Abel's offering accepted by God and Cain's not?

The context of Cain and Abel's offer

First, let's understand the context of the story. Cain and Abel were the sons of Adam and Eve. While Cain was a farmer, working the land, Abel was a sheepherder. At a certain point, they both decided to make an offering to God. Cain, who cultivated the land, brought the fruits of his harvest, while Abel, who looked after the sheep, offered the best of his flock, namely a lamb.

The Bible says that God was pleased to accept Abel's offer, but not Cain's. Why was this treatment so different? What led to this difference in treatment? What was behind the acceptance of one and the rejection of the other? To understand this better, let's look at each of these offerings.

1# Abel's Offer: The First Difference

Abel made an offering with something that cost him something valuable. The Bible describes that he offered "of the firstfruits of his flock" (Genesis 4:4), meaning that he brought the best of his sheep to God. In doing so, Abel demonstrated a sincere and devoted heart to God, putting him first. He offered something that truly represented the best he had, symbolizing the recognition that God is the provider of everything.

Abel knew that true worship involves giving your best, whether in material goods, time or spiritual dedication. He didn't choose just any sheep, but the best one, the one that was valuable to him. This kind of attitude demonstrates genuine faith and a desire to please God fully and sincerely.

What can we learn from Abel's offer?

  • True worship involves giving the best we have to God, whether in material goods, time or dedication.
  • Offering to God with a sincere heart is more important than the material value of the offering.
  • God values the motivation behind the offering more than the offering itself.

2# Cain's Offering: What Was Missing?

On the other hand, Cain's offering was different. The Bible doesn't specify that he offered the best of the fruit of the land, only that "Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the land to the Lord" (Genesis 4:3). There is no mention of a specific sacrifice or anything of value for Cain, and that makes all the difference. Cain apparently made his offering in a mechanical way, without genuine dedication or the desire to please God with the best he had.

We can't say for sure what Cain was thinking, but the way he made the offering indicates an attitude of disinterest or even pride. The lack of value in Cain's offering reflected a lack of reverence and true consideration for God's holiness.

What can we learn from Cain's offering?

  • God is not pleased with offerings made out of obligation or without a heart for him.
  • The way we give, more than the material value, is what matters to God.
  • We must offer God with sincerity, respect and dedication, and not in a superficial way.

3# The Rejection of Cain and the Acceptance of Abel

When God rejects Cain's offer, he doesn't ignore him completely, but calls him to reflect. God tells Cain that if he does good, he will be accepted, but that if he continues on his path, sin will overtake him (Genesis 4:7). This moment is an opportunity for redemption for Cain, but instead of repenting, he becomes angry and ends up murdering his brother Abel.

God's rejection of Cain's offer was not an act of revenge, but an invitation for him to correct his attitude. Cain's offer was rejected because it did not reflect a sincere heart, but only a superficial gesture. God therefore prefers Abel's offering, which is made with genuine love and respect.

What does this story teach us today?

The story of Cain and Abel teaches us several lessons about the nature of true worship and how we should approach God.

1# God values the attitude of the heartIt doesn't matter what you give, but the motivation behind the act. God looks at the heart, not the quantity or material quality of the offering.
2# Offering the best to God: Like Abel, we must give the best we have, whether it's our time, work or financial resources.
3# Sincerity mattersGod is pleased when we approach him sincerely, seeking to please him and not simply to fulfill an obligation.

Motivation and heart

The difference between Cain's offering and Abel's is not in what was given, but in the motivation and heart behind the offering. While Abel offered the best with a sincere heart, Cain made his offering without dedication and with a cold spirit. The lesson we can draw from this is clear: God wants us to approach him truly, sincerely and with the best we have. May we reflect on this and seek to offer God not just what we have left, but what is most precious to us, with a heart full of gratitude and adoration.

See also: Connect with your brothers and sisters in faith on WhatsApp!

January 14th, 2025