We are taught that Cain was angry because his brother showed him up, he was jealous because God found favor with Able and not himself. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself how much sense that makes? What in the world did Able do wrong? Or what did he do that even had an impact on Cain? The answer, of course, is absolutely nothing.
Able’s sacrifice had nothing to do with Cain. His sacrifice was between him, his sheep, and God. Cain was not even in the equation. Similarly, Cain’s offering had nothing to do with Able.
While the Bible does not tell us exactly why Cain’s offering was not accepted, it is obvious that the problem only lies with Cain. He was not being compared to his brother, he was being judged solely on his offering.
Why are you so angry?” the Lord asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.” (Genesis 4:6-7 NLT)
How often do we give into sin instead of subduing it? Why do we allow ourselves to blame or become jealous of others with the problem lies within ourselves?
God does not compare us to one another. God loves us each equally and individually. A close friend of yours living a sinful life does not make God love you more. And thankfully, having somebody out there dedicating everything to ministry and winning thousands of souls for the Lord does not make Him love you any less.
Do not let other people become your measuring stick. Your relationship with God, and how He responds and relates to you, is strictly between you and God. And since He is always the same, you are the only variable in the equation. You can be as close to God as you want to be. But when you get caught up comparing yourself to other Christians, you are giving a foothold to the sin that is crouching at your door.
Keep your focus on God, and only compare yourself to the example set by Christ. That is the only measuring stick that is appropriate when evaluating our dedication to God.