Two Views of Sacrifice

And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. 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: but unto Cain and to his offering He had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. Genesis 4:3-5

Steps 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

With similar training and similar needs both brothers approached the issue of sacrifice from two different views. Cain brought the best offering that he could think of without surrendering his perspective to God. He offered his sacrifice and God, the totally impartial, and all knowing, Judge, did not accept Cain’s offering. On the other hand Abel brought an offering that was totally in harmony with God’s will. Abel brought an offering that showed that he knew that he needed a Saviour from his addiction and he did the best that he could do to cooperate with God’s commands. Abel brought a lamb to die in Abel’s place. Blood was shed that he would live and he brought the fat, a symbol of sin, to burn in place of his own addictive behaviors. God was pleased with Abel’s sacrifice and accepted it, while rejecting Cain’s sacrifice. Cain was angry but not ready to change. God was willing to tell the truth to both parties so that any good would be confirmed and any evil would be revealed so that a decision would be made.

Prayer for Today: God, You already know my heart. You know whether I will cooperate with you or not. Help me to receive Your guidance with out anger and hatred. Bring me closer to You and help me to accept Your feedback without getting in my own way. Thank you again for your love and patience. Please keep me close to Your side, and protect me from myself.