WEDNESDAY March 11, 2026
The Faith of an Excellent Sacrifice
By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks.
Hebrews 11:4
In Hebrews 11:4, we begin to discover how faith operated in the life of Abel, the first individual mentioned. He was the younger brother of Cain. These two were the first sons born to Eve. Cain was a farmer, and Abel was a shepherd (Genesis 4:1-2). Cain brought an offering of fruit from the ground to the Lord, whereas Abel brought the firstborn of his flock as a sacrifice to the Lord. It was a more excellent sacrifice because it was offered to the Lord by faith. Abel’s faith had this witness––one act of faith made him righteous. Cain’s sacrifice was not respected by God because it was not offered by faith.
Cain became very angry that his sacrifice was not accepted. He grew very bitter and hateful toward his brother. God addressed his issue and said: “If you do well, will you not be accepted?” He was given another opportunity. But God knew the danger of sin’s influence is Cain’s life––“And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it” (Gen. 4:7). God warned Cain and gave him a chance to change his attitude and his heart. He had a free will––a choice.
Cain did not heed the warning. He was jealous of Abel. Jealousy is an awful thing; sometimes it can lead to murder. Jealousy incited Cain to murder his brother. After he killed him and buried him in the ground, he thought nobody, not even God, would know––sad. Righteous people never stop speaking, even from the dead. God said: “...the voice of your brother’s blood cries out...” (Genesis 4:10). God called Cain to account.
Sadly, there may be a family member who has become bitter and angry at you. Maybe they are jealous of your relationship with God. They see His hand upon your life––His favor and blessings. Continue to offer your life as a holy sacrifice to the Lord (Romans 12:1-2) and pray that God would give them an opportunity to experience His love, grace and mercy. Those in your family who hate you need a miraculous change of heart and attitude.
All of the sacrifices you make without faith are worthless.
~Chuck Smith~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
