November 6, 2022 Bible Reading

November 6, 2022

Abel

Many of us heard the story of Cain and Abel when we were children. Sunday school stories focus on Cain—the man who brought the wrong offering, became angry with his brother who brought the right offering, lost his temper, and lured his brother into the field to kill him. For all of eternity, he is known as the world's first murderer.

Abel has a different legacy. When we read his biography in Hebrews 11, he isn’t referred to as a victim of Cain's temper but rather a righteous man who is an example of living by faith. For all of eternity, Abel stands as an example of someone whose obedience to God’s ways cost him in this life but led him to rewards in the next life.

His story reminds us that evil men have hated those who obey God's ways since the beginning of time. The Bible is clear: Abel’s only offense was obeying God. He followed God’s commands for proper worship, while Cain chose to worship his way.

Abel did nothing wrong. He suffered for doing what was right.

Often as men of God, we too will suffer for doing right. While I hope none of us ever has to physically die for our commitment to obey God, many throughout history have. Whether or not we are called to pay this ultimate price, I can guarantee that there will be people who hate us for it when we walk in obedience to God's ways. It may be family, friends, co-workers, or a neighbor who hate our choice to do things God’s way because it convicts them of the sin in their lives.

Choosing obedience to God may cost you friendship. Some may lose a contract or a job. Others may have to make difficult choices about whether they will continue walking in obedience to Christ or suffer significant consequences.

These are when we need to choose if we will be ride or die men of God like Abel.

Will we continue modeling righteousness or compromise for the sake of comfort?

Will we continue walking in righteousness?

Are we strong enough to be men of faith, following God even when those around us choose to disobey God and reject us for our obedience?

This is the legacy of Abel. He died for His faith. The question is: will you live for yours?

Today’s Scripture: It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith. (Hebrews 11:4 NLT)

By Jamie Holden

Founder, Mantour Ministries

New International Version (NIV)

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