Totally: Getting to Know Our Knowing, Present, Capable, Caring GodSample

Adam and Eve’s sons, Cain and Abel, had equal opportunity to honor God the way He deserves to be honored with the results of their labor. Abel took full advantage of that opportunity and brought God the very best part of his flock—the firstborn and the rich meat—as an offering. Cain, however, brought God “some” of his crop—just whatever was handy, nothing special. Because He is just, God responded appropriately to the quality of the gifts and the attitudes behind them, but Cain didn’t receive God’s encouragement well because he was prideful.

God didn’t have to talk to Cain about his anger. He could have let Cain stew, but He didn’t. Even though Cain had failed to honor God appropriately, God tried to coach Cain through his tantrum. Because God is patient, He didn’t shame Cain for doing wrong. He simply encouraged Cain to do better next time to avoid sin's damaging effects.

Instead of being grateful for God’s patience, Cain killed his brother Abel out of jealousy. Even though God had offered Cain the same chance at acceptance He had offered Abel, Cain couldn’t stand to watch his brother enjoy God’s approval.

Even though Cain had committed murder, God approached Cain after this sin the same way He had approached Cain’s parents after their sin—on his level with a simple question. Because God is merciful, He gave Cain a chance to confess his sin and unburden himself. Because Cain was prideful and stubborn, he didn’t take it.

God continued to be merciful to Cain, but Cain thought God’s punishment was unfair and grumbled about it. Even so, God protected Cain because God is gracious and has a habit of treating people better than they deserve to be treated. Even when we refuse to be helped, God is near and willing to care for us.