Love God Greatly: In the BeginningSample

The serpent knew how to trick the woman. He knew how to twist the words and commands of God to get her to believe God was holding out on her. What he said was partially true, but not completely. He framed God’s words in such a way to cause the woman to believe God was keeping something good from her. 

The woman also was a bit unsure of what God had said. She told the serpent God had said they could not eat from the tree or touch the tree. God only said they could not eat from the tree. This additional command to not touch the tree did not come from God. Whether the man said this to the woman or they decided on it together, it was not from God. 

The serpent continued to lie to the woman. He told her she would receive something good—wisdom—not death like God had said. He was on the prowl, looking to devour the woman. The woman and the man failed to follow God’s commands and took the serpent’s tempting offer. 

When we face temptation to sin we often face a similar set of circumstances. The enemy may try to convince us of something that is partially true, or has elements of truth in it. He tries to trick and trap us at every turn, like a lion searching for prey. But there is hope! We are not to fall prey to his schemes. With God’s help we can stand against temptation. As we study and memorize God’s Word we become armed with truth. When we know the truth, when we are sure of exactly what God says, without adding to it or taking away from it, we are best armed to face the attacks of the enemy. 

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, give me wisdom to know what is true and what is not true. Help me stand firm against the schemes of the enemy, aware he is always out to trap me. I desire to honor Your Word and follow You. Amen.