In Genesis, there is a story of two brothers who both offer God a sacrifice. One brother’s sacrifice is accepted and the other’s is not. In chapter 4 of Genesis starting in verse 1, we read, “Now Adam had sexual relations with his wife, Eve, and she became pregnant. When she gave birth to Cain, she said, “With the Lord’s help, I have produced a man!” ² Later she gave birth to his brother and named him Abel. When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. ³ When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the Lord. ⁴ Abel also brought a gift—the best portions of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The Lord accepted Abel and his gift, ⁵ but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected. ⁶ “Why are you so angry?” the Lord asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? ⁷ You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out!”

There is one word in these verses that makes the difference. In verse 3, we read that Cain presented “some of his crops” as a gift to the Lord. Whereas in verse 4, we read that Abel brought the “best portions of the firstborn lambs” from his flock. There is a big difference between ‘some’ and the ‘best of the firstborn’.

The firstborn males, to include animals, were the Lord’s. Not only did Abel bring the best of his flock, but he also ensured that his gift was the best from the firstborns. Abel’s gift showed his love and respect for the Lord. His gift shows he feels what a joy it is to give to the Lord. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 9:7 that the Lord loves a cheerful giver. God knows our hearts and minds and whether we are giving out of joy and love or obligation and guilt.

Let’s pray. Father in heaven, we thank You that You love us. Please help us to give to Your kingdom cheerfully with hearts full of love and thanksgiving. We know that all we have is Yours. Thank You for blessing us and please use us to bless others. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, amen.