When we hear information that differs from source to source, we may, in frustration say, “He said, she said.” It is an expression used to indicate a probable lack of truth. While reading Genesis just now, that phrase came to mind. Remember the incident in the garden where God told Adam not to eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil?
And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” Genesis 2:16-17 ESV
What God said to Adam alone, the serpent questioned Eve about. He basically got her to repeat the command to Him. Eve was fully aware of what God expected, so the serpent decided to attack from a selfish and prideful point-of-view. He has the audacity to question God’s motive! He calls God a liar!
But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
So, God said something, then the serpent said something and then Eve acted. Isn’t that exactly how temptation works? We already have God’s Word, but the tempter will come and tell us we can do what we want. We have the power. Interestingly, that is what got satan thrown out of heaven, fighting for control and denying God’s authority.
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. Revelation 12:9 ESV
God tells us, in His Word how to not fall prey to the enemy. It is to submit ourselves to Him. When we fill our souls with His commands, His spiritual food, we will be able to resist the schemes of the enemy.
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 ESV
When we hear opinions on what God expects or allows, whether from the evil one or multiple sources from the world, our best bet is to go straight to God’s Word and feed on it as if our lives depended on it, which they do! How great is He to give us what we need to live a righteous life!
Journal time: In what ways have you been tempted to go against God’s Word? (We all are tempted!) Is there an area in which you are more susceptible? Find a verse about that area, like pride, for example. Write down a verse that tells what God says about it and commit it to memory. As for me, I make too many plans so I will memorize a verse about letting God plan. If your life was recorded in the Bible, would there be a time when you knew right but were tempted to follow the enemy? How would you like that story to end? Good news! We us get to choose how our story ends!
One last thing…Do you remember the old song, “Standing on the Promises?” Here is a link. Listen to and sing the words. So inspiring. We can stand firm on God’s promises to us! Praise Him!
Dear God,
What would we do without You? Having You as our guide is like receiving a gift every day of our lives. Help us to make good choices, based on Your Word. Please make us aware of our shortcomings so we can better fight off the enemy. We believe what YOU say and want to do what You command. Help us love those who do not know You who need You. Give us opportunities to tell them about how awesome You are. We know trials will come but we know Your Word will stand so we will cling to Your truths. You know best. We love You! Amen
Glory in the Morning 