Doubt is easily planted in our minds. If not resolved, it can destroy our confidence. It will steal dreams and rob us of hope. And then, quick to follow on the heels of doubt is distortion of truth which can become believable. It was the first tactic used by the unsuspected enemy of Adam and Eve. And today, it’s still one of the enemy’s favorite tools.
“The serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God really say ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden?'” (Genesis 3:1).
“Did God really say…?” A subtle suggestion intended to cause doubt and used to strike at the very credibility of the word of God. I’ve heard it many times. I’ve fought that wrestling match and I now stand on firm ground. If God said it, I believe it. And bottom line, God’s truth is not subject to anyone’s judgement.
Before the creation of Eve, God told Adam, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die” (Genesis 2:16-17).
Did you catch it? You can eat from ANY tree…except one. The serpent totally distorted God’s words. God gives in abundance. And not only does He give abundantly in the physical realm, He gives the abundance of freedom. However, He sets wise boundaries in His interest of our well-being. He’s good that way!
That could have been all God said and it would be enough. God says it. He’s trustworthy. I will obey. But no, God explained to Adam the consequences that would take place if he abused his free will. God is good that way too!
We will live grateful lives when we focus on the abundance God has given us. And our lives of gratitude are not prone to test boundaries when we trust God. We won’t listen to the lie, “the grass is greener on the other side of the fence.” We will be content, satisfied and at peace.
Thought to ponder:
debponders 