Faith of Abel

Faith of Abel is part of a series of KJV devotions
on the Lonely Road of Faith from
Hebrews 11.

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
Hebrews 11:4, King James Version

4. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: 5. But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 6. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7. If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin liteh at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him. 8. And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.
Genesis 4:4-8, King James Version

Faith of Abel

The following is a quote from Matthew Henry's commentary on Genesis 4:

The offerings of Cain and Abel were different. Cain showed a proud, unbelieving heart. Therefore he and his offering were rejected. Abel came as a sinner, and according to God's appointment, by his sacrifice expressing humility, sincerity, and believing obedience. Thus, . . . his sacrifice had a token that God accepted it. Abel offered in faith, and Cain did not.

Many commentators offer opinions as to why Abel's offering was accepted and Cain's was not. It is not my purpose to delve into the fine points of doctrine, but rather to understand that Abel's offering demonstrated his faith in God, but Cain's offering did not.

There is not a single part of our lives, as Christians, that is separated, or not connected to our faith in Christ. Also, there is not a single part of the lives of non-Christians that is separated, or not connected to their lack of faith.

We love gray areas! Look at how common it is to read stories or see movies where good and bad are blurred. The "good" guy demonstrates some very bad characteristics, while the "bad" guy is not always so very bad - just enough to be the nemesis of the "good" guy.

As Christians, we will never be separated from our own sin while we are alive here on earth; many times that is our greatest grief. But, we must understand that every single element of our lives is to demonstrate our faith in Christ. Our purpose here on earth is to glorify God, not ourselves.

Pray to God for the strength and wisdom to live every part of your life to the glory of God. Remember, God knows every thought and intent of your heart.

Our ultimate goal is to please God, not to please man. Pray that your life will exhibit the faith of Abel and be a positive demonstration of your faith in God to those around you.

Faith of Abel

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