Originally from Missouri, Abel grew up in the United Methodist Church.

He studied music education at MSSU in Joplin, Missouri, and church music and world missions at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. He is presently finishing a doctorate in ethnomusicology from Ohio State University.

While in Ohio, in addition to providing weekly worship leadership, Abel worked with a number of churches as a musician and consultant for developing worship. He also produced and recorded two CDs.

Abel's main passions in life are Jesus Christ and doing all that is possible to further God's kingdom. Abel's music specialization includes voice, guitar, bass guitar, drums, saxophone, trumpet, recorder, ocarina, accordion, banjo, mandolin, and various ethnic instruments.

Other than music, Abel's interests include gardening, computer games, recreational walking, and reading.