For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil, and his brothers were righteous.
1 John 3:11-12.
From the beginning we have been taught the importance of loving one another. This teaching reminds us not to follow in the footsteps of Cain, who was influenced by evil and ended up committing an act of murder, against his brother. Why did Cain do such a thing? It was because his own actions were driven by wickedness while his brothers’ actions were filled with righteousness.
In living it is crucial to understand that love should go beyond those who agree with us or make us happy. The scripture encourages us to examine our hearts and recognize that we all possess both an inclination towards good represented by Abel and a tendency towards evil symbolized by Cain.
Abel’s example teaches us the importance of offering our sacrifices and acts of devotion to God with sincerity and righteousness. He demonstrates unwavering faith in God. Seeks to please Him above all else. Such motivations are pleasing in Gods eyes. On the hand there is also a part within us that resembles Cain. This part suggests offering anything without motives or intentions. The "Cain”, within prompts actions driven by malevolence or selfish desires than seeking alignment with what pleases God. To truly embrace the teachings of love and righteousness we must strive to suppress our Cain". Allow our inner "Abel" to prevail.
This entails prioritizing actions that align with Gods will over our desires. Cains actions are often driven by his selfishness and jealousy sometimes even resulting in the destruction of the bond characterized by love, among people. It is natural for us to lean towards Cains perspective always striving to be, in control. “ For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, Mark 7:21”.
However, it is essential to pause and reflect before expressing any thoughts that originate from our hearts. We must consider whether our intentions align with Abel, which would bring pleasure to God as He sees the nature of our hearts. On the contrary if we are guided by Cain motives the consequences can be devastating. It could lead to the breakdown of relationships causing harm and leaving lasting wounds that may be impossible to mend. Moreover, it may result in losses that can never be fully recovered.
Antonio Mendes
Church and Ministry Leadership Consultant
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