Did God Really Say . . . ?

February 27, 2023

Did God Really Say . . .?

By Brooke Holt

“Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?’” Genesis 3:1

So much temptation in our lives begins with questioning God: Did God actually say...? Is God really good? Is God truly for me? These questions began with Adam, Eve, and the serpent and questions and continue for God’s people today.

You must remember this scenario between Eve and Satan. You have an enemy of your soul! That enemy would love to convince you that God’s Word is not trustworthy and true. He plants doubts that lead to questions. You choose how to interact with those doubts and questions. Other questions to consider include: what does God’s word say? How has God dealt with you in the past? Will you choose God’s way or the way of your enemy? I have often asked others and myself: will you listen to the enemy who seeks to destroy you or the Lord who sent his Son to give you abundant life?

The serpent’s way leads to death and separation from the Lord while the way of the Lord brings life, abundant life, and the faithful way forward with the Lord. Adam and Eve chose the way of death when they partook of that fruit. They disobeyed God and chose to follow the serpent instead of their Father and Creator.

Thanks be to God -- he made the way of reconciliation for Adam and Eve, and he has made the way for you. Graciously, God provided covering for Adam and Eve’s sin (and their naked bodies) even though their relationship with him completely changed.

Through the gift of Jesus, you have covering for your sin as well as reconciliation to the Father. Your sin has been covered, but when you choose to follow the way of the enemy, you miss the joy of God’s abundant life. Because of Jesus, you will never be cast out of God’s presence; however, you can still miss his best for your life by choosing to doubt God’s word and to walk in the way of disobedience.

Reflection:

If you experience this questioning of God, you are human. The important thing to consider is what you will do in that time of questioning. Will you honor God, check his Word, and choose to submit to him, or will you allow the enemy to take you off track, out of his good plan and purpose for you? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Recommended Resource:

The Resurrected Life: Making All Things New - The Bible promises that those who are in Christ are "new creatures." But how does that transformation take place? This unique Easter-season small group Bible study provides a space in which we can discover what it truly means to live a new life. As we listen, we'll learn how the resurrection of Jesus Christ changes everything - for us. Begin the journey to new life today!