Longing For God预览

Lessons from the Garden

By Michael Youssef, Ph.D.

When God created humanity, there was perfect contentment. Adam and Eve lived in paradise, a place of complete peace and protection. As we try to imagine what such a place was like, we gain three insights that clarify the difference between our lack of contentment and the true peace that God desires for us.

Exquisite beauty. As God created every part of the universe, He pronounced it “good.” But He unleashed the full extent of His creative power when He designed a garden home for Adam and Eve. For their enjoyment, He poured out beauty beyond comprehension.

Abundant provision. The beauty of the Garden of Eden also was functional. The trees were pleasing to the eye but also good for food. As part of God’s plan of provision, He assigned Adam the job of maintaining the Garden.

Before the Fall, Adam and Eve didn’t just lounge around all day—they had work to do. “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15). They had important work to do, but they were working inside the Garden, in God’s presence, and that made all the difference. They found fulfillment in the satisfying work that God gave them.

Complete protection. The garden’s ability to protect its occupants demonstrates a third element of contentment. God sheltered Adam and Eve, guarding them from all danger. Within the garden’s walls, Adam and Eve lived in an atmosphere of sweet harmony with each other and with God.

This same God longs to provide for you, protect you, and fellowship with you today. When you take time to talk with God, He will talk with you. You can know God’s heart by reading His Word. And when you fellowship with Him, you have His divine protection.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your everlasting love and protection. I know that You desire to have a personal, daily relationship with me. Show me how I can draw closer to You through Your Word. I long for Your fellowship and I ask for Your protection. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings” (Psalm 17:8).