Scriptures
Genesis 4:3-5
“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…
Hebrews 11:4
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts…
Matthew 4:1-4
Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil… Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Reflection
True faith is more than rituals or outward acts—it is an act of the heart toward God.
Abel’s Offering vs. Cain’s Offering
In Genesis 4, both brothers bring offerings. Cain brings “of the fruit of the ground,” while Abel brings “firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof.” God accepts Abel’s sacrifice but rejects Cain’s. Hebrews 11:4 reveals the reason: “by faith Abel offered”. Abel’s action was rooted in trust – he gave his best, recognizing God’s terms and believing Him worth his best offerings. Cain, though he brought something, did so without that faith that seeks holiness from the heart.
Jesus’ Temptation and God’s Word
In Matthew 4, Jesus walks through trial and temptation. Each time He answers the enemy, He does not appeal to emotion or power—He quotes Scripture. And He holds faith to be anchored in God’s Word. First, He resists hunger: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” True faith trusts in God’s promises, even when physical need presses in.
Where Faith and Formal Religion Diverge
Formal religion can imitate actions; it can produce correct offerings; it can speak correct doctrines. But faith that pleases God cares for the motive, the obedience, the trust behind what we do. Abel’s heart came before God, Cain’s did not. Jesus showed us that entrusting to God’s Word – even in temptation – marks the person whose faith is alive. God rewards those who come to Him with humility, dependence, and truth. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please him…”
Lessons for Families
Within a family, religion can be comforting – family prayers, attending church, saying grace. These are good, but they must not replace the inward work of faith. Parents and children must be taught not only to do but to trust: to bring their best to God, to speak truth under pressure, to depend on God’s Word, to believe His promises. When true faith and family comes together, it is built on a rock, unshakable in storms.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
You are holy, true, and faithful. Grant us the grace to pray for a faith that pleases you – not only through what we do but through why we do it. May our offerings be joyful, our hearts humble, our motives pure. Teach our families to trust in your Word; to live out faith through every fiery trial. Help us to build not on rituals, but on the Rock, Jesus Christ. May our lives bring full glory to you,
in Jesus name,
Amen
