Cain

<<first child ever born>>

He was the oldest son of Adam and Eve, who later killed his brother Abel. Both Cain and Abel brought offerings to God, but Cain’s was not adequate. We are not told why Cain’s was unacceptable – was his motive wrong, was it inferior quality, or was it because no blood was shed as had been the case when God provided animal skin clothes for his parents replacing the vegetation garments they had made after sinning (Gen 3:7,21)? It is reckoned he lived about 4,000yrs BC. His story told in Genesis 4:1-17.

Lessons from his life: * Cain was not a humble person. When his gift was not accepted, God challenged him to change, stating if he did right he would be accepted, “But if you refuse, sin will attack and destroy you, but you must conquer it” (Gen 4:6,7). Cain rejected the truth, which would have resulted in his restoration and blessing. Receiving correction, although humbling, is for our ultimate benefit. What is our reaction when someone suggests our actions are not up to standard? Do we acknowledge we have failed and endeavour to do better in the future or do we make excuses, justify our actions and in hurt sink into self-pity? The final choice is with us, we choose the pathway.

* He brooded over this disappointment, refusing to admit his mistake and plotted how he could get even with Abel, the one who had shown up his substandard behaviour. The Bible says, “Cain’s actions were evil and his brothers were righteous” (1 Jn 3:12). This infers Cain’s act of murder was just a progression down the path he had taken. He took out his frustration on an innocent party. When our emotions are out of control and sin runs wild, situations quickly deteriorate with the end result often far reaching and affecting many people, with serious long lasting consequences. Not doing things God’s way always ends in tragedy. Learn by the failures of others.