By Faith Abel Offered

Open Your Bible

Hebrews 11:4, Genesis 4:1-11, Romans 10:6-10, 1 John 3:11-24

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 11:4, Genesis 4:1-11, Romans 10:6-10, 1 John 3:11-24

After you finish reading today’s scriptures, come back and use the blurb and question here to dig deeper into the themes of faith, hope, obedience, and suffering. Join your fellow Bible readers in the comments to reflect and chat about what you’re learning!


Abel’s faith in God produced an obedient heart, one that wanted to honor God with the best of his harvest. While Abel was unjustly murdered, that suffering is not the end of his story—his act of faith still gives voice to the trust he placed in God. Jesus fully exemplifies this posture of faith-filled obedience to God by seeing through the suffering that brought us eternal life.

What can you learn from Abel’s response to God in today’s reading?

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153 thoughts on "By Faith Abel Offered"

  1. Sarah Hanna says:

    Abel’s offering was the best of his flock. Probably his favorite of his flock. To me, this poses the question.. what in your life do you enjoy most? What do you find most satisfaction and pleasure from? What makes you happiest? Would you give this up to God completely and “risk” losing it? Asking myself this question puts into perspective the importance of truly putting God first.

  2. Candy Smith says:

    Give God your best. Your heart to give is important.

  3. Katie Goodson says:

    Give God your best boy your leftovers.

  4. Indyia Ford says:

    That he is more focused on our true intention then the physical sacrifice

  5. Amber Cleveland says:

    We can learn that through trust in God that he will always take care of us and to always love others even when they are “.hard to love”

  6. Ashlie Glendening says:

    He cares more about the heart of the sacrifice than the sacrifice itself!

  7. Latoddra Mason says:

    Amen

  8. Erin Summers says:

    We must always show obedience, trust, sacrifice, and faithfulness to God.

  9. Andrea Gainous says:

    23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
    Colossians 3:23-24 came to mind, as Abel exemplifies this scripture.

  10. Melissa Richards says:

    Lord help me to obey in Your love ❤️

  11. Amy EB says:

    I need to trust God and not withhold things from him. I should be bringing him the best of my time, my talent, and my treasure, not what is leftover after I’ve spent it on the things I’ve chosen to prioritize.

  12. Nicole Powell says:

    It taught me not to look at others blessing and what they do and to worry about what you do

  13. Alexis Dabney says:

    The fruit that I produce, let’s say money, giving God the first of it and giving it to him with a giving heart and not because I have to because I want to

  14. Rebekah Wilson says:

    Faith brings us trust, and trust brings us obedience.

  15. Heather Macomber says:

    This is a great example of our tithe. Are we giving God the first so he can bless it or tipping God after we do what we want with our resources.

  16. Jessica Hertzog says:

    “Now without faith it is impossible to please God, since the one who draws near to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”
    ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭6‬

    How am I living my faith today? Because if I’m not… am I just like Cain?

  17. Ellen S says:

    I think Cain’s offering was not accepted because he gave “some” of the land’s produce-he did not give the best of his produce. Aren’t we to give God our best? While Abel gave the firstborn-being obedient and giving the best.

  18. Natasha R says:

    My offering reflects the posture of my heart. Also, true faith leads to obedience.

    The story of Cain and Abel never spoke to my heart because I felt it was unfair that God accepted Abel’s gift and not Cain’s. But as some of you have said here, we don’t know the full story, and I can only assume that God saw it to their hearts and knew who was giving in true loving obedience.

    May my heart have the same posture.

  19. Anita Skele says:

    Anything you do, do it first for God, not for self.

  20. Jade Gaines says:

    To correct my heart posture before I give to God. God knows your heart. God deserves and desires reciprocity not transactional offering. I learned to love my brother and others because Christ loves you. To focus on God in all circumstances. Our faith keeps us alive in all circumstances.

  21. Audren Phalen says:

    I can learn to always give my first and best to God, regardless of what’s happening in my life.

  22. Jennifer Anapol says:

    I want to truly walk in the love of the Lord. I want to love through my words, deeds, and decisions. I pray that love God first .

  23. Colette says:

    What can be learned from Abel’s gift to God? Abel gave the best portions of the firstborn lambs while scripture says Cain gave “some” of his harvest. Clearly Cain kept the best for himself. This reminds me of the first miracle of Jesus turning water into wine. It was customary of the wedding host to save the best wine for last because not much of it would be drank, saving the host $$$. However when Jesus does something it’s always the finest. To tha point that folks ask the host why the finest wine was being served first.
    This makes me reflect on my own motives…do I always give the first and best to God? The answer is no Thankfully He still loves me and His mercies are new each morning, giving me the opportunity to do better.

    1. Mercy says:

      ❤️ Amen!

  24. Heather O'Malley says:

    Good morning, She’s! Thank you for the prayers for Hudson. He had dinner with us last night, and we had a really good talk. He’s still moving out, but he knows it’s his decision, not us kicking him out. He’s looking for a higher paying job and is willing to work a couple of jobs so that he can also save money. It’s not going to be easy, but I think it will be good for him, and he knows we are here for him. Praising God that our relationship is still good and he hasn’t completely walked away from us. Please continue to pray that God would call Hudson to repentance and that he would turn back to Him. I pray for all of our prodigals, and for strengthening of our faith as we wait for His perfect timing.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Great and encouraging news, Heather! Thanks for this update and prayer directive. Praying God’s protection over Hudson’s spirit as he begins this new path. ❤❤

      1. Heather O'Malley says:

        ❤️

    2. Mercy says:

      Praying over Hudson and your heart.

      1. Heather O'Malley says:

        ❤️

    3. Wendy B says:

      To have a good conversation when ones heart is hardened is very encouraging. The narrow road we travel on with our Jesus can seem unappealing and boring and the diversions off may appear easier, more exciting, more adventurous and freeing, but we know they lead to no where. May the Lord’s whispers be the loudest voices Hudson hears to guide his way,draw his heart back and lead him back to the right path and home in every sense of the word.❤️

  25. Susan Burley says:

    Abel’s gift came from his heart and was willingly offered. Even after his death, scripture says that his blood called out to God from the earth. What a true symbol of his faith that in death his spirit was still focused on his Heavenly Father!

    1. Jade Gaines says:

      This is the perfect take away from what to learn from this lesson. thank you for sharing

  26. Adrianne says:

    What can you learn from Abel’s response to God in today’s reading?
    Abel’s response to God was to provide a sacrifice from his flock to Him. That sacrifice pleased God. There is no explicit reason that God rejected Cain’s offering over Abel’s, but it was rejected and God saw and tried to counsel Cain away from the anger and sadness.

    All we really know about Abel is that worked hard and when he saw the success of raising his flock he wanted to share that with His Lord. And even when he was murdered, he cried out for his Lord. You could see Abel’s faith even in death as his blood called out to God.

  27. Leslie Littleton says:

    And also, how many times have I thrown the same little fit that Cain threw because someone is walking closer to the Lord than me. “God why aren’t you that close to me, why aren’t you showing up for me?” When that person is making the Lord their number one priority and I am not. Lots of good lessons in this story.

    1. Rhonda J says:

      Yes, good insight!

  28. Leslie Littleton says:

    Abel giving the sacrifice he did, the first born of his flock (the “first fruits”), shows me that Abel didn’t just worship God and honor him with this specific sacrifice, but that he lived in a posture of honoring and worshiping God with his life. He wanted to please God. We are called to do that as well! To be living sacrifices. Something I haven’t really paid attention to before, but hit me like a ton of bricks today is what God says to Cain after Cain gets angry: “if you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it” Gen. 4:7 Cain was not living in that state of sacrifice, he wasn’t focused on the Lord and sin crept in…and his brother paid for it. When we aren’t living in a state of worship and sacrifice, giving the Lord our first fruits everyday sin so easily creeps in! And there are always casualties when we sin. This definitely convicted me this morning!

  29. Gloria D says:

    I love that Abel’s example of faith still influences us today. Such an example of how our faith can influence future generations. Went on vacation to see where my grandma grew up and through research found her great grandfather was a pastor and founded a church in her community. So amazing how the thread of faith can run through families without our even knowing it. My grandmother was a believer even though her childhood was so very hard. Lord let my faith be a beacon of hope in Jesus for future generations no matter what they may go through.

    1. Rhonda J says:

      Amen, that’s good!

  30. GramsieSue says:

    I went to Wiersbe this morning:
    “Cain’s attitude represents the attitude of the present world system. The world hates Christ for the same reason Cain hated Abel: Christ shows up the world’s sin and reveals its true nature. When the world, like Cain, comes face-to-face with reality and truth, it can make only one of two decisions: repent and change, or destroy the one who is exposing it.
    If the world could only see, it would realize it is living on the low level of murder and lies, surrounded by that old serpent satan and all his demonic armies!
    Like Cain, the people try to cover their true nature with religious rites, but they lack faith in God’s Word. They will eventually be cast into outer darkness with Satan to suffer apart from God forever.”
    That’s sobering.
    Praying for all this morning. ❤️

    1. Mercy says:

      Thank you for sharing this profound revelation, “repent and change, or destroy the one who is exposing it”. We see the world chooses to destroy. I thought you were CEE GEE for a second :) thanks for the wisdom of Wiersbe.

      1. Rhonda J says:

        whoa…yes, that’s good! whew.

    2. Heather O'Malley says:

      Wow. This is good. Thank you for sharing.

  31. Cindy Hanna says:

    Abel’s gift was given truly in love. Cain was checking a box or even maybe trying to manipulate a favorable outcome for himself in some way. Motivation matters.
    “You know O man what is good “ Practice Justice. Love Mercy. Act with Kindness. Walk Humbly before your God. (Micah 6. paraphrased by me)

  32. Cee Gee says:

    “What can you learn from Abel’s response to God in today’s reading?”
    Hmmm…
    I was reminded that any gift to God should be out of love and desire to honor Him. A gift given simply for show or to ‘make an impression’ on others is definitely not a HEART GIFT/God honoring gift.
    We also see here the first example of how our faith contrasts with those who have no faith. Cain’s heart did not reflect faith in God evidenced by the smoldering anger he carried around in his spirit. We are reminded in this reading that anger in the heart equals murder. So much to draw from this reading outside of the offering.
    From 1 John (NLT)
    “But a person who has no love is still dead. 15 Anyone who hates another brother or sister* is really a murderer at heart. And you know that murderers don’t have eternal life within them.”
    23-24:
    “And this is his commandment: We must believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as he commanded us. 24 Those who obey God’s commandments remain in fellowship with him, and he with them. And we know he lives in us because the Spirit he gave us lives in us.”
    Yes, we are our brother’s keeper as Jen Wilkin reminded us in our Revelation study this week!
    Have a blessed weekend SHES! Let’s let God’s love shine in our hearts and actions today and every day. Reminded of the song, SHINE, JESUS, SHINE:
    Lord, the light of Your love is shining
    In the midst of the darkness, shining
    Jesus, Light of the world, shine upon us
    Set us free by the truth You now bring us
    Shine on me, shine on me
    Shine, Jesus, shine, fill this land with the Father’s glory
    Blaze, Spirit, blaze, set our hearts on fire
    Flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy
    Send forth Your word, Lord, and let there be light
    Lord, I come to Your awesome presence
    From the shadows into Your radiance
    By the blood, I may enter Your brightness
    Search me, try me, consume all my darkness
    Shine on me, shine on me
    Shine, Jesus, shine, fill this land with the Father’s glory
    Blaze, Spirit, blaze, set our hearts on fire
    Flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy
    Send forth Your word, Lord, and let there be light
    As we gaze on Your kingly brightness
    So our faces display Your likeness
    Ever-changing from glory to glory
    Mirrored here, may our lives tell Your story
    Shine on me, shine on me
    Shine, Jesus, shine, fill this land with the Father’s glory
    Blaze, Spirit, blaze, set our hearts on fire
    Flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy
    Send forth Your word, Lord, and let there be light
    Shine, Jesus, shine, fill this land with the Father’s glory
    Blaze, Spirit, blaze, set our hearts on fire
    Flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy
    Send forth Your word, Lord, and let there be light
    Songwriters: Graham Kendrick. For non-commercial use only.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      I forgot to share this in the Genesis reading; from Warren Wiersbe:
      God knew why Cain was angry, but He wanted Cain to examine his own attitude. It’s dangerous to carry grudges and harbor bitter feelings in our hearts, because these can be used by Satan to lead us into temptation and sin. This is what Paul meant when he wrote that anger “gives place to the devil” (Eph. 4:27). If we aren’t careful, we can tempt ourselves and bring about our own ruin.

      We can’t separate our relationship with God from our relationship with our brothers and sisters. (That includes our natural brothers and sisters as well as our brothers and sisters in the Lord.) An unforgiving spirit, such as Cain possessed, hinders worship and destroys our fellowship with God and God’s people (Matt. 5:21–26; 6:14–16). It’s better that we interrupt our worship and get right with a brother than to pollute our sacrifice because we have a bad spirit within.”
      ~~~~~~~~~~~
      anger “gives place to the devil” (Eph. 4:27). That stood out to me because I have been trying to get someone close to me to understand that for some time.

      1. Rhonda J says:

        Thank you! I need to examine my own attitude. A few days ago I got aggravated at a couple of people at church. They kinda step on my toes (knowing or unknowingly) or didn’t think to include me on the happenings of a project I have been working on for months. I should have calmly told them my thoughts rather than getting mad and flustered. It certainly didn’t help! errggg..A work in progress always…at least I didn’t get revenge! Lord help me to examine my reactions and control my frustrations and tongue.

      2. Victoria E says:

        Cee Gee thanks for sharing this! Do you think this also applies to non-believers??

    2. Mercy says:

      ❤️ Amen!

    3. Indiana Elaine says:

      Love that song, Cee Gee. May God flood our nation with grace and mercy!!

      1. Cee Gee says:

        ❤ Amen, Elaine! That’s the kind of flood we welcome! Continued prayers for grace, mercy, and provision for those affected by the unwanted kind of flood.

  33. Lara M says:

    A footnote for Heb. 11:4 in my super old NIV Study Bible worded it in a way that helps me understand the difference of Cain’s offering from Abel’s better than ever — “Cain’s sacrifice was rejected because he offered it without faith, as a mere FORMALITY.” Wow. Do I offer myself to God in different ways out of WORSHIP and FAITH or sometimes just as a mere formality? Yikes.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, amen!

    2. Sophie M says:

      Wow! So good! Thank you for sharing!

    3. Adrienne says:

      A mere formality. I don’t want that to be me. Ever.

  34. Annie says:

    Abel’s response to God was from a pure heart seeking to please God. Only God sees the heart and the motives behind our actions.

  35. Donna Wolcott says:

    Thank you sisters, for so many wonderful comments this morning. Lord, what is my heart posture and where do I need to work harder on? Blessings and prayers for you all.

  36. Cheryl Blow says:

    This section of scripture always has confused me but today it has become clearer.

    It makes me think of this verse:

    “But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.”
    ‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭15‬:‭22‬ ‭NIV‬‬
    https://bible.com/bible/111/1sa.15.22.NIV

    Praying for all! Praying also for my heart posture!

    “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
    ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬
    https://bible.com/bible/111/psa.51.10.NIV

    1. Darla H says:

      I love this! You’re absolutely right, and I love that reference to 1 Samuel. Thank you for sharing!

  37. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

    What can you learn from Abel’s response to God in today’s reading?
    He gave God the best of the flock. I suppose what I could learn is to make sure I’m giving God my best.

    Side note, I know I said earlier in the week that Sarah being a part of this Hall of Faith list always surprises me. While it doesn’t surprise me that Abel is a part of this list, what I struggle with is all of the things I feel like people try to draw out about Abel. We don’t know much about Abel at all. He offered a sacrifice to God, God liked his sacrifice more than his brothers and his brother killed him because of it. Somehow that got him into the Hall of Faith. I know he was viewed as a righteous man (Heb. 11:4 says as much), but honestly, I’m not seeing the action of Faith. I guess I’ve never really viewed giving God your best as an action of Faith, but more of an action of obedience and service. Also, how is it that he is still speaking through his faith when he is dead?

    1. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

      A quick add on- I posted this before reading others’ thoughts and research findings on here. It looks like I was voicing questions already being asked. Thank you to all who shared their findings!

  38. Rhonda J. says:

    GM She’s!
    All the stories of the old testament are relevant for our understanding and walk with God. God’s outline for his creation; laws and purposes- two options. Trust and obedience with a cheerful heart OR following our own sinful flesh and desires. We love God and do what is right or we don’t, put simply. Yet again, we know it is not SO simple to walk that out. That’s why Jesus came! The veil was torn, a love so divine, that he gave his life so that we may live! But we must die to ourselves, daily ask for his bread, and earnestly desire Him. We know he will never leave or forsake us!

    I love the comparison someone made of receiving gifts that they knew had no thought behind them, yet wrapped pretty. It doesn’t feel good. That’s how our God feels when we are doing works rather than truly wanting to give ourselves because of his love for us. We can’t put a pretty bow on it and disguise anything from an all-knowing God. Remember how our parents used to say “when you become a parent you will understand..” and then we do, and we do?! Yep, it’s like that.But some do not ever receive this knowledge and understanding..they are always focused on themselves always, never gaining insight—Hello Cain. Don’t be a Cain.

    1. Mercy says:

      No it’s not simple at all to walk this out. We need Jesus all the way. When the strong waves of religion, legalism, spirit of controlling and manipulation through the wrong power hiding behind the pulpit, all rear its ugly head, or the pressure of persecution, the words of accusations, the “Cains” rise up to go after the righteous, our heart gets faint and weary. We need Jesus, all day everyday. Without Him, we can do nothing! Praise God that He said He never forsakes us, even in storms or fires.

      1. Rhonda J says:

        Amen Mercy!! Lord keep me strong, keep me solid on your rock, thank you for never leaving or forsaking mef!

  39. Mari V says:

    Happy Friday!!! So thankful as I am SO exhausted! My thoughts: Maybe Cain was more stingy and not enough faith that God would provide had he given with his whole heart, YET Able loved God so much that it was his faith that drove him to give his best. Makes me think of my giving/tithing, I should by faith give more even when it hurts. At the end of July, about 2 weeks before I went back to work after having the summer off (had a little saved up, a tight budget, did not take a vacation, AND my son helped me financially to help provide for 2 weeks pay) I was down to my last
    $12 before I got paid (I had just gone back to work on August 1st). I remembered I felt alone and very sad. I did not share this with my kids. I shared with a couple of friends and they said they would pray for me. But I still felt sad. THIS morning I felt I should give a little more, and trusting my JESUS to continue to provide like HE always does! AND yep, even when I was down to my last $12, I made to pay day! God is good.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Oh dear Mari, you truly have a beautiful heart. I think most of us can admit we take for granted that we have easily accessible bank accounts that we don’t think too much about week to week. I know I have never had to. Thank you for sharing!

    2. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

      Thank you for this insight. It does take a great amount of faith to give when we don’t have much in the first place. My husband and I have also recently been in this same position. I guess I’ve always assumed that there was a plethora of sheep as other stories in the Bible elude to shepherds having lots of sheep. But we aren’t given that information here in this story. Maybe they didn’t have very many sheep and maybe that was their only meat source. I feel like there are just a lot of “maybes” with this story.

    3. Michelle P says:

      Thank you for your vulnerability. That actually blesses me, to know one of my older sisters in Christ is tested in similar ways that I am. You are a blessing, Mari V – to us and to those who know you. I was thinking yesterday, it is somewhat sad most of us Shes will never meet in person… it is very unlikely lol… but I look forward to seeing everyone including yourself in the presence of the Lord Himself. ❤️ God bless you:)

    4. Mercy says:

      Aww Mari.. your story touched my heart. May the Lord be with you and provide all your needs.

    5. Mari V says:

      AGAIN I am blessed with ALL your sweet and kind words!!! LOVE you so much! Can’t wait to give you all a “real” hug someday!

  40. Tina L says:

    Thank you for all your wisdom, the story in scripture of Cain and Able has often confused me. The intention of the sacrifices mattered. I pray that I am intentional in my faith. What is in my heart matters most. Faith is a gift from God-

    1. Mari Fronsman says:

      I like that you shared “the intention of the heart matters.” I like to think that when Jesus entered our story, so did grace and my Father in heaven loves me more than any earthly father could, which means he know me so well, sees all my intentions, and helps to teach me thru every journey that comes into my story.

  41. Kris says:

    This has always been a confusing passage, it doesn’t really say why Cain’s offering wasn’t good…. except we can see his heart after he gave it. There was enough evil in there to kill his brother. That says a lot about his heart when he brought the sacrifice to God. We can pray every single day for a pure heart, to be washed of any uncleanness, to be forgiven for any sins we’ve committed… every day can be a day of renewal and cleansing for us. God looks at our heart, while man looks at the outward being.

    1. Mercy says:

      He gave to God with much resentment, envy and tremendous amount of anger/hatred toward his brother. What a lesson on how our giving attitude so matters. We give our best, and not to compare with someone else’s best, which leads to envy and strife.

  42. Erica Chiarelli says:

    Cain did not offer the right gift/sacrifice… sin requires blood. We are not told how/what Adam told his sons, but since Abel gave the right gift, we must assume Adam did tell them. Cain did not obey and then grew angry that Abel did…
    Abel’s obedience shows faith in God’s way and his blood speaks to this day. God also avenges His own.

    1. Annie says:

      Yes! The blood is required to take away sin. Cain would have known, but like religion today, he wanted to do it his way. He wanted to offer his own works. That was not God’s requirement.

    2. Annie says:

      Yes! Blood is required to take away sin! Cain would have known, but chose his own way. It’s a picture of man trying to get to heaven by their own way, good works etc. But, Jesus was the lamb of God. Only His blood takes away sin. He is the only way to receive forgiveness of sins!

  43. Rebecca W says:

    This from Enduring Word app: Here it is one lamb for a man. Later, at the Passover, It will be one lamb for a family. Then, at the day of atonement, it was one lamb for the nation. Finally, with Jesus, there was one lamb who took away the sin of the whole world!

    1. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

      This is a cool thought. Thanks for sharing!

    2. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

      ❤️

  44. Gwineth52 says:

    Hello Shes
    I remember growing up in our small Southern church how everyone came wearing “their Sunday best”. And when the plate was passed, everyone gave their “best portion” from meager wages. These were big things in a poor community of believers. We showed up honoring God by both our attire and our purse. And in my childhood recollections, it pleased Him.

  45. Adrienne says:

    I thought I was the only on that didn’t understand the offerings of Cain and Abel! I looked in study notes of various Bibles, and never understood. I just chalked it up to, “It is what it is.” and left it at that. The passage from 1 John really helped me this morning. Cain’s heart condemned him.
    .
    Ouch. Don’t let mine condemn me!
    .
    On a side note, my MIL once told my mom that there will be a lot of good people in hell. Ouch again! Let’s help people know what we know… faith in Jesus is what saves us (not being good people)!

  46. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

    From Abel’s response I learn that he had faith in God and loved Him – so much that he wanted to please Him in all that he did. He didn’t just offer the bare minimum of a sacrifice – but gave the very best of what he had. Agape love gives, expecting nothing in return. Abel gave from his heart, wanting nothing more than to please God in the best way he knew how.
    ~~~~~~~~~~
    Abel’s actions cause me to question my own. Do I give to God first, and do I give Him my best – or my “leftovers”.
    God gave His very best for me, I pray I will always follow the example of Abel and give my best to God.
    ~~~~~~~~~~
    Side note: Saw the most amazing moon last night – It was SO big, bright and beautiful! Did you all see it? “The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shows His handiwork.” Psalm 19:1
    ~~~~~~~~~~
    Have a blessed Friday – love and prayers! ❤️

    1. Rebecca W says:

      Yes! The moon was amazing!

    2. Kris says:

      Hasn’t the moon been spectacular lately!!???!!?!?

    3. Tina L says:

      The moon has been amazing. Each time I glimpse it I’m reminded of the wonder of Gods creation. My Mom always told us that when we look at the moon that she is also looking at the same moon when we were apart. Now she is no longer here but I feel her presence when I look at the moon.

    4. Wendy B says:

      Yes! I saw the moon too. The skies as of late, sunrise to sunset, northern lights to moonlit nights, have been just beautiful.

    5. Mercy says:

      So sweet that you are with us even though on vacay. Hope you and Jeff are having an amazing time. Thanks for sharing about the beautiful moon :)

    6. AZ Walker says:

      Yes Sharon, it’s all about God wanting our hearts Amen! The moon was amazing out here in Arizona too last night.

  47. Kimberly Reed says:

    Thanks for all the comments regarding Cain’s (insufficient) sacrifice. I had thought like many of you ladies. I appreciate the clarification and direction for further study ❤️

  48. Jody Striker says:

    This passage has always given me trouble too. I had to pull out some Bible commentary this morning. What I read said that Hebrews 11:4 gives the answer: Abel brought his offering by faith. He had faith in God and he wanted to show that through his offering. Cain did not have faith and this is why his offering was rejected. It’s a sobering reminder that the intentions of our hearts matter and that God knows them. Lord, search our hearts and make them pure for you. Help us to put our faith in you afresh today! ❤️

    1. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

      This is helpful, thank you!

  49. Nicole Florence says:

    Abel walked and worked dutifully for God .. not himself . He gave the best of his of his flock as sacrifice understanding that we should always be thankful and think of God first and foremost.. as He does of us .. and any sacrifice will be rewarded if done with a righteous heart . We also see that Abel didn’t fight back ..it states he was attacked and killed .. even as his brother attacked him , Abel still loved him and didn’t reciprocate anger and hate ..that is true love of a brother and exemplified Love God and Love your brother

  50. Willow Higgins says:

    Joyfully give

  51. Makenzie Griggs says:

    I would agree with a lot of people here.. I think God saw Cain’s heart and his intent in his offering; something we weren’t meant to understand. I can’t help but picture.. you know how in those movies on Thanksgiving the dad is always wearing a football jersey and shouting at the tv?? My mind made me chuckle this morning as I imagined God looking at us chanting like we are His football team. He’s like, “alright. You guys know the plays, now go out and win the game!” And we fumble the ball, A LOT, and He may shout and say, “child, you knew better than that!” But He is still there cheering us on, coaching us along, and bandaging us up when we come to the sidelines with a boo-boo. Have the best day, everyone!! ♥️

    1. AmyG says:

      Love this! Sharing with my football coaching son and husband :)

    2. Sheryl says:

      ❤️

    3. MARTHA HIX says:

      ❤️

  52. Tanya says:

    The verse that came to my mind is 1 Samuel 16:7 ” …Humans do not see what the Lord sees, humans see what is visible, the Lord sees the heart.” God told Samuel in the first part of the verse,” Do not look at apoearance or his stature because I rejected him.” When God sees something wrong even though the outward appears good, he rejects it.
    1 Samuel 22: Then Samuel said: “Does the Lord take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as obeying the Lord?
    Maybe Abel had a different heart posture when he gave God his offering. Maybe he gave with the right motive and not the desire to appear pious. Perhaps he had a genuine desire that day to draw near to God and worship as opposed to going through the motions? Scripture does not say but his actions pleased God.

    God says later 4:10 ” Your brother’s blood cries out to me.” Blood speaks. This was before DNA! On that same vein does the blood of Jesus speak and cry out,”Not guilty” when we are covered in it?

  53. Katy S says:

    Very early in the Bible, we can see that it is not about what you do but the heart behind it. Your intentions matter and define your actions. This is why Jesus came to give this message to those who were defining what they did by the law and not by their love and faith for God. Help me to remember this in my own walk.

  54. Linda in NC says:

    Sisters in the faith, it seems like all I have the time do to is coming here for your prayers. This is a rough week. Problems with Gene’s catheter sent us to ER Wed night @ midnight. Much difficulty with getting a new one inserted. Again last night we had a problem with him not draining properly. God graciously answered our fervent prayer for so.e output so we didn’t have to go back to ER. But we are both exhausted! This morning he has only had 1/3 the normal output. We have an appt with the Memory Clinic and then later one at the urology of for the surgery scheduled 11/1 to insert supra pubic catheter for better life quality. Please pray we can see the nurse while we are there and get things figured out so we don’t have another very short night.
    Exhaustion is taking over and my emotions are right at the surface. Thank you so much!! Love and prayers for each of you.

    1. Nancy says:

      Praying for you! Praying for good care and rest.

    2. Therese says:

      Praying ❤️

    3. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Linda you must be so exhausted! Lifting you right now in prayer. I will continue to pray for you and Gene and for his doctors and nurses. May God give you extra strength today and wisdom for every decision that has to be made. Much love and prayers! ❤️

      1. Cee Gee says:

        Adding my AMEN to Sharon’s prayer, LINDA! It sums up what I would have said! ❤❤ Love and hugs!

    4. Lynne from Alabama says:

      Praying for both of you every day, dear sister! Dealing with the physical and mental problems is a lot! ❤️

    5. Mia Faith says:

      Praying now!

    6. Wendy B says:

      So sorry its been such a trying and exhausting week. Have prayed for you right now.

    7. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying for you and Gene! We went through a very similar experience with my husband. Exhausting nights at the ER!

    8. Donna Wolcott says:

      Linda lifting you and Gene up in prayer that the medical staff can help today. Prayers for rest for both of you.
      Also, lifting all of you who are caregivers that you may be filled with a peace and strength for this day.

    9. Mercy says:

      Praying dear Linda and Gene.

  55. Jerrica Terry says:

    Honor the Lord out of my obedience to him.

  56. Theresa says:

    I have always struggled with this section of Genesis, but reading it reflected with Hebrews 11 brought fresh insight. In verse 3, we read that Cain brought some of the land’s produce as an offering. Then in verse 4, we read that Abel presented the firstborn of his flock and their fat portion. A really specific offering that is echoed later in instructions God gives the Israelites about how to make certain sacrifices. How did Abel know to choose the firstborn of his flock and offer the fat portion as well? Abel was listening to God and God was giving him the instructions on what was a pleasing offering. Then in faith, Abel responded and God approved him as righteous. Cain was not acting in faith with his offering and instead of listening and responding in obedience to God’s instruction, he just gave something. Abel’s act of faith was less about the sacrifice itself and more about the relationship he has formed with God long before that sacrifice was made. And that relationship carried past his earthly life where his blood continued to cry out to God.

    Where are areas in my life that God is trying to speak to specifically and I might not be listening or acting in faith on the details?

    1. Carol J Mylin says:

      I appreciate your emphasis on practical application… where “the rubber meets the road”…. MY heart… MY response! ♥️

    2. AmyG says:

      Love this insight!

    3. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

      ❤️ This is really helpful, thank you!

  57. Zoe Mazzawi says:

    OBEDIENCE is always good!!
    It leads us to the BETTER way.

  58. Danielle B says:

    God wants our heart obedience not just an act. Abel brought his first born. He sacrificed the first of his flock. The Bible doesn’t give this distinction to Cain’s offering, so it is likely it wasn’t his first fruit harvest. Kelly (neo) I appreciate what you shared from the commentary you read. Cain grabbed what was easy, while Abel sacrificed an valuable part of his flock. This speaks to their heart towards God.

  59. Andrea Martin says:

    Obedience and stewardship with gratitude!

  60. Searching says:

    Looks like many/all of us are wrestling or have wrestled with understanding Cain & Abel.

    I agree with LAURA, God saw the sin in Cain’s heart. And also agree with KELLY (NEO), that Cain wasn’t intentional about the quality of his gift to God, just giving whatever happened to be there (Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground) – rather than as Abel, carefully selecting the best of the best for his gift (Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat).

    And as always, God was right about Cain. When his offering was rejected, what did he do? He got angry, instead of making things right with God by gathering and presenting the first fruits. And when God questioned, explained and cautioned him, he refuses to listen or do better – taking out his anger at God (and really, anger at himself I think) by killing his brother.

    How much better for Cain if he had listened and heeded God? Um… how much better for us if we did? If we gave Him our best? If we didn’t take out our anger at God and ourselves on others? And if others didn’t do the same toward us?

    Lord, please guide our words and actions, that we would think before speaking or doing, that we would examine ourselves for any correction needed in attitude or motive.

    TERESA DONLEY – thinking of you, praying you are doing well
    LYNNE FROM AL – praying for you and Jack, sister.
    CEE GEE ❤️
    LANIE – thank you for sharing yesterday, beautiful!

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Amen! ❤

    2. Blessed Mama of 6 says:

      ❤️ Searching, your insights are very helpful, thank you! “How much better…?” That’s a good question to chew on right there.

  61. Aimee D-R says:

    True faith drives a desire to give our best to God

  62. Vicki M says:

    This made me think of a boss I had. We had an uneasy relationship. Each year she gave me a Christmas present and they would vary from year to year. One year I knew what she had given me were samples from her favourite beauty products, all wrapped. I confess I felt slighted – no thought, no expense. I felt like an after thought. Other years she had given me something nice but that year….! Her Christmas gifts always let me know what she felt about me. No amount of pretty wrapping could disguise the message of the contents.
    Abel’s gift told God that Abel loved and trusted him. Cain’s gift told God that He was not first and foremost in Cain’s heart. As Paul says in Romans “The message is near you in your mouth and in your heart”
    Father, may you always be my first thought with a heart full to bursting for you.

    1. Tanya says:

      I have experienced the “afterthought” gifts and how they made me feel. Imagine God’s feelings when we give less than the best to him! Great analogy!
      This really spoke volumes!

    2. Sheryl says:

      What a great example/word picture of what was really going on with Cain’s offering/heart!

    3. Mercy says:

      Wow this is so true. The content of the gift someone put in reflects their heart toward the recipient. Thanks for sharing.

    4. Karen Bruno says:

      Vicky, thank you.
      Abel’s gift told God that Abel loved and trusted him. Cain’s gift told God that He was not first and foremost in Cain’s heart.
      This struck my heart. I am as guilty as Abel in that my desires are often first priority. I’m not seeking God with everything and loving and obeying Him as He deserves.

  63. Kelly (NEO) says:

    “Even though he is dead, he still speaks through his faith.”
    .
    It is amazing what ripple effects come from our faithfulness to God. Things we may never see or know this side of heaven. May my faith “speak” to future generations not yet born.
    .
    KRISTINA FINNEY – praying you have clarity about your job soon!
    .
    MARIA BAER – continuing to pray for God’s abundant provision for you as you sort through the loss of your home.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Kelly, same statement touched my heart. Amen! ❤

  64. Nadine Hall says:

    A faith-filled life is one of obedient sacrifice. Alive in Christ, we must die to ourselves daily, and be willing to lay our lives down in love for one another. Accusations and persecutions are part and parcel of the Christian walk, so in faith, we deny ourselves, pick up our own crosses daily, and follow Jesus.

  65. Laura says:

    I have always struggled with this section in Genesis as well, not understanding why Abel’s sacrifice was accepted and Cain’s was not. Perhaps verses 6 and 7 hold some insight: 6 Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you furious? And why do you look despondent? 7 If you do what is right, won’t you be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.”

    God saw sin in Cain. His heart posture was not right. It makes me think of “good things” that people do with the absolute wrong intent. For example, every time I hear the term “virtue signaling” I think of this. On the outside, it appears that a human is doing something “good” but the heart is not right, and it is actually sinful.

    It also made me think of how this is so early in human history, yet here we are, already with a murder. Eve’s sin led to Adam’s sin, which led to Cain’s sin. Sin spreads and grows. And this is why I believe God said “sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.”

    1. Sheryl says:

      That’s so good, Laura. We can’t know people’s hearts, but God can and does! He knew the hearts of both Cain and Abel. One gave out of a heart of faith, the other did not. I would like to think that God was trying to show Cain that his heart needed correction just as He does for us when the Holy Spirit convicts us when our hearts need correction. He warned Cain that sin was there and to rule over it instead letting sin rule over him, just as in fact he did do. This is a great picture for us to see how failure to listen to and follow God’s leading will lead to being ruled by sin.

    2. Mia Faith says:

      Laura, this is so good. Thanks for sharing.

    3. Audren Phalen says:

      I struggle with this passage too, and I’m not sure why Cain’s offer being rejected wasn’t explained. But God has His reasons, so I’ll trust they are good. I like the way you saw this, it reminded me that I haven’t looked at my heart posture in too long.

      1. Letitia Scott says:

        Thank you, I also struggle with this passage. I
        As I reflect, I need to be reminded to give to God my first and my best.

  66. Mary Ann Graves says:

    Amen

  67. Teresa Eddy says:

    While we are on the earth, God will be refining us until the day of glory.

  68. Chloe Knieriem says:

    Abel offered everything up in trust that god would provide for him.

    1. Jo Turnbull says:

      Yeah, I hadn’t really seen that before. Cain gave a bit after a while, but Abel gave the best

  69. Dana says:

    This is going to sound ignorant but every time I read about Cain and Abel I don’t understand why God didn’t accept Cain’s offering. What was wrong with it compared to Abel’s? Would it not have been more loving to accept both? I know I’m missing something and I know all you brilliant minds will help me see it. Thank you in advance!

    1. Tricia C says:

      Dana,
      Funny, you should say that because I was thinking the same thing. I think that every time I read this. Was Cain‘s heart not right or what? If anyone has any enlightening information that would be great. I just don’t think there’s anywhere in the scripture word actually points out what’s going on there. If there is, please share it.

      1. Carol Wyatt says:

        Isn’t it that Cain brought the fat and not the whole animal. He held back and showed a lack of trust.

    2. Julie G says:

      Dana, I have asked myself the same question, I am no biblical scholar, but I wonder if maybe Cain’s heart wasn’t in the right place when he made his offering. You know like he was proud of what he has accomplished, instead of being grateful to God for the gift of produce. Abel had a humble heart, grateful for the gifts of God. I don’t know, maybe that was the difference. Have a blessed day!

    3. Sally B. says:

      Absolutely not ignorant, Dana – Bible Studies I’ve done on Genesis have pointed out it’s not 100% clear the difference in the offerings, and this was certainly before the Levitical law that prescribed sacrifices in detail. Where I’ve landed is it was about their heart attitudes. God gives Cain the chance to ‘do what is right’ in verse 6, but Cain let’s his anger rule and kills his brother instead.
      Hope this is helpful – I’m sure you will get other insights throughout the day.

    4. Kelly (NEO) says:

      From the Faithlife Study Bible: “4:3 an offering from the fruit of the ground
      The Hebrew word order here may hint that Cain brought whatever was close at hand while Abel brought the best of what he had (Gen 4:4). Cain’s offering could also be of poor quality, but there is no direct statement about this in the text.”

    5. Isabelle Davis says:

      Dana, what scripture says in the full context of the text and what is interpreted based on the original idea of first fruits is that Cain gave God his “leftovers.” In agriculture, the first fruits are the very best thing from that harvest. And it is a step of faith to give the Lord your first fruits since because it means you’re surrendering your all. By giving the Lord what was left, Cain wasn’t trusting the Lord to provide.

    6. Raquel Franco says:

      Thank you for bringing this up. I was wondering the same.

    7. Annie says:

      Is it not because God wanted a sacrifice which offered blood. It is the blood that washes our sins away. Not our good works. Cain’s offering is works of his hands. His toiling and working the ground to grow his crops. That’s a picture of our good works not getting us to heaven. It’s only through the blood of Christ that we can be forgiven. Abel’s sacrifice is a picture of that.

    8. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

      Dana, this might help clear up some of the confusion concerning the two sacrifices…
      “The writer to the Hebrews clearly explained why the offering of Abel was accepted and the offering of Cain was rejected: By faith Abel offered up a more excellent sacrifice than Cain (Hebrews 11:4). Cain’s offering was the effort of dead religion, while Abel’s offering was made in faith, in a desire to worship God in spirit and in truth.”

      By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice: The difference between the sacrifice of Cain and the sacrifice of Abel (Genesis 4:3-5) was not between animal and vegetable. The difference was that Abel’s sacrifice was made by faith.

      “Abel’s sacrifice was preferred to his brother’s for no other reason than that it was sanctified by faith; for surely the fat of brute animals did not smell so sweetly, that it could, by its odour, pacify God.”
      (From the commentary – enduring word)