Abel was the first man noted for his faithful act of righteousness. He trusted God enough to give God the best that he had, this is an example of his faith and trust in God. Let’s look at what the Bible says about Abel in Genesis 4:4.

So why was Cain so jealous of Abel? The Bible gives us some insight to this.

Many non-Christians hate Christians, because they’re convicted on sin, (like Cain was) when Abel was counted righteous by God. Look at Cain’s attitude toward his brother Abel in Genesis 4: 3-6.

Hatred is not uncommon against a Christian’s stand of righteousness.

Note: “saved”, i.e., do well, deliver, protect

Many non-Christians think our faith in God is stupid.

“Raca” means: empty-head, worthless or foolish.
The perspective of one does not value the life of the other.
If we hate, we’ve acted with a murderous heart.
“Actions” come from the heart.
Such ungodly perspectives can bring God’s judgment, like He brought on Cain.

Remember, God wants us to love our enemies, which is also a righteous act.

We learn how Abel was honored for his act of righteousness in Hebrews 11:4.

Like Abel, we too will be honored for our acts of righteousness. Consider Malachi 3:16 -18:

Our righteous acts are precious jewels of treasure to God. Living our lives with acts of righteousness may not be popular and may have negative reactions, but

God not only notices our courageous faithful acts of righteousness, but He will also remember and honor us forever.