Learning from Cain & Abel:
When our heart is more important than sacrifice

God refuses a sacrifice when our life is not right, and when our heart is not right.
Cain displayed a proud, unbelieving heart in the manner in which he approached a holy God. He worship & sacrifice things on the altar according to what he thinks is right, without consulting God of how it ought to be. So, his offerings were rejected by God.

On the other hand, Abel came as a dependent sinner and according to God's prescribed appointment. His sacrifice expressed humility, sincerity, and believing obedience. Abel offered in faith, but Cain not (Hebrews 11:4).

God refuses Cain's offerings not because it's different from Abel- not because it's just fruits! But Cain's life is not right before the Lord. If Cain has repented, instead of denying his sins, God would have forgiven him. Regretfully.. it didnt happen. Cain permit hatred to take a deep root in his heart, and it produced serious consequences. Cain hardened his heart continuously and this was an invitation for Satan to come and make a stronghold in his life.

Cain and Abel both had the same background and opportunities. One chose to follow the Lord, and the other went his own way.

Dear friends,
It's important that we do a regular heart check. Are we walking in the Lord's righteousness at the moment? Have we forgiven those who have sin against us? Do we come to the Lord in all honesty and humility? Let's remind ourselves again, so that our relationship with God will be unhindered. :)


Source: Rephrased from the book "Genesis: The Book of Beginnings" by Dr. Brian J. Bailey.