Bring the Best!

Genesis 4:3-4 So it came about in the course of time that Cain brought an offering to the Lord of the Fruit of the ground. And Abel, on his part also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and for his offering;

What was the difference between Abel's offering and Cain's offering. Obviously, Abel was a keeper of the flocks so he brought an animal to sacrifice. Cain who was a tiller of the soil, brought fruit to sacrifice. We can't say anything concerning the condition of their hearts prior to their individual sacrifices because the scriptures are silent.

But there is a difference. Abel brought the firstlings from the flock, but there is no indication that Cain brought the first of his produce. Abel thought of God first before anything else. It wasn't as though Cain didn't think of God, but he didn't give him first thought.

Why is it important for God to have first place in our lives rather than just a place? Well, there are some obvious reasons. He's the maker of heaven and earth. All things exist though Him, all things that exist came into being by Him, and He holds all things together by the power of His might. He is the source of life for all mankind and He sacrificed His only begotten Son to free us from sin and death. The New Testament tells us that Jesus is the first raised from the dead so that He might come to have first place in all things. This isn't a new idea given to us in the New Testament, God has wanted to have first place in our lives from the beginning of time.

We do well and life goes well for us when God is situated in the place that only He deserves. What's in first place in your life today? Don't condemn yourself if it's not God, but do confess it to Him. Ask Him to assume His rightful place in your life and rest in the comfort of His love and care for you.

Have a blessed day!