Origins: The Beginning (Genesis 1–11)Sample

By Pastor Dan Hickling

“The Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden, and there He put the man whom He had formed.” Genesis 2:8 (NKJV)

Does God have a plan for my life?

Be honest. You’ve wondered that at some point in your life, haven’t you? Perhaps you’re wondering even as you read this. It’s not surprising because we battle against three voices that continually tell us God doesn’t. 

First, there’s the voice of Satan. He’s quick to whisper in our ear that although God may have made us, He’s left us to figure everything out on our own. Later on in Genesis, we’ll see him attack by driving a wedge of alienation between God and His people.

Second, there’s the voice of society. When was the last time you were encouraged by the world to trust in God’s loving kindness for you? Instead, our culture tells us it’s ultimately up to us to find fulfillment in life. “It’s a dog eat dog world,” and you need to fight if you want to get fed.

Finally, there’s the voice of self. Deep down, we sense that we are sinners. And as such, we convince ourselves to falsely think that God doesn’t want anything to do with us. We tell ourselves that we’ve disqualified ourselves from experiencing God’s direct involvement and direction in our lives.

But, notice in the verse above how God had a plan for our ancestor Adam. God didn’t leave Adam to roam around earth and figure things out on his own. Instead, He purposefully placed him in the garden prepared for him. God had a purpose for Adam’s life, and God fulfilled it. 

Don’t make the mistake of thinking God’s heart toward you is any different. You are just as precious and valuable to Him as Adam, and He has a specific purpose for your life. It won’t be the same exact plan as Adam’s, but there is a plan drawn up for your life, drafted by divine hands. Don’t take my word for it, take His: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Ephesians 2:10 NLT).

“Does God have a plan for my life?” The answer is an emphatic yes! Don’t allow the voices of Satan, society, or self tell you otherwise. Rather, let the voice of Scripture settle the issue once and for all. God created you and has a plan for you, just like Adam.  

DIG: What does Adam’s example show you?

DISCOVER: What three voices speak against this truth? What voice must you listen to instead, and what does it say?

DO: Have quiet time today where you sit and meditate on the voice of the Lord. Turn off all distractions, get alone with God, and in the stillness just sit and listen.