How can we ensure our offerings are pleasing to God like Abel's? Setting the scene Genesis 4:4-5 records: “The LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but He had no regard for Cain and his offering.” Scripture presents a literal moment when two brothers bring gifts, and the Sovereign God openly values one over the other. From that snapshot the Spirit teaches enduring principles for every era. Why Abel’s offering pleased God • It was marked by faith. Hebrews 11:4 notes that “By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did,” linking trust in God to an acceptable gift. • It reflected costly obedience. Genesis 4:4 specifies that Abel brought “the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions,” the choicest and best of what he had. • It was accompanied by a righteous life. 1 John 3:12 contrasts “Cain, who was of the evil one” with Abel, implying that the giver’s character matters as much as the gift. What God still seeks today • First place in our resources (Proverbs 3:9-10). “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • Integrity in worship rather than impressive externals (Malachi 1:8-9). God rejects blemished, half-hearted offerings regardless of their market value. • Cheerful, willing hearts (2 Corinthians 9:7). “God loves a cheerful giver,” affirming that grudging generosity falls short. • A life surrendered, not merely a token gift. Romans 12:1 calls believers to present their bodies as “a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” Guarding the heart behind every gift • Cultivate daily gratitude; offerings become an overflow rather than a duty. • Fight comparison; envy corrupted Cain’s worship long before violence surfaced. • Submit motives to Scripture’s light. Psalm 139:23-24 invites God to search and purify hidden intentions. • Remember that acceptance rests on Christ’s atoning work, enabling imperfect people to bring pleasing sacrifices (Hebrews 10:19-22). Practical steps for modern believers 1. Set aside the first portion of income before spending anything else. 2. Give consistently, not sporadically, demonstrating steady trust in God as Provider. 3. Pair financial gifts with acts of service; Hebrews 13:16 affirms that “with such sacrifices God is pleased.” 4. Reconcile broken relationships promptly (Matthew 5:23-24); peace with others safeguards the integrity of worship. 5. Review the budget periodically to ensure generosity grows as God prospers. Continuing in accepted worship Abel’s testimony still speaks, calling believers to offer the best, by faith, from sincere hearts. As each gift—financial, practical, or relational—flows from love for the Lord, the pattern of Genesis 4 is reversed: God looks with favor, and worshipers walk in joy instead of resentment. |
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