For Kids · 4 min with a grown-up
The first two brothers bring gifts to God — but jealousy grows in one brother's heart, with very sad results. God shows us what to do with our angry feelings.
Today's Story
Adam and Eve had two sons: Cain, who was a farmer, and Abel, who was a shepherd.
One day, both brothers brought gifts to God. Abel brought his very best. Cain brought some too, but not his best. God was pleased with Abel's gift. Cain's face fell — he was angry and jealous.
God spoke to Cain kindly, like a warning: “Why are you so angry? If you do what is right, you'll be okay. But be careful — sin is like a wild animal crouching at your door, waiting to pounce. You must rule over it.”
But Cain didn't listen to the warning. His jealousy grew and grew, until one terrible day, out in the field, Cain hurt his brother Abel so badly that Abel died. It was the saddest thing that had ever happened.
God asked Cain, “Where is your brother?” Cain tried to hide it. But God knew, and there were sad results for Cain. And yet — even then — God was merciful. He put a special mark on Cain to keep him safe from harm. Even with the saddest people, God still showed care.
The warning God gave Cain is for us too: when anger and jealousy come knocking, don't let them in. Bring them to God instead.
A Big Word
Memory Verse
Talk About It
- God warned Cain that bad feelings were “crouching at the door.” What do you do when you start to feel really angry or jealous?
- God asked, “Where is your brother?” We're meant to look out for each other. How could you look out for your brother, sister, or friend?
- Even after Cain did wrong, God still showed him care. What does that tell you about God's heart?