TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Genesis 3:6
Read: Genesis 3:1-10
Listen: Genesis 3
TODAY’S MESSAGE
God creates all things and has a perfect relationship with Adam and Eve in the beginning. There is a perfect connection between heaven and earth and all is well. Adam and Eve have full reign of the garden and their souls are at rest in perfect peace. God gives only one rule: do not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:16-17).
Although this is how things were meant to be, together Adam and Eve choose to defy God. They eat from the forbidden tree and are expelled from the dwelling place of God. God drives them out of Eden and places cherubim and a flaming sword to guard the gate. The loss of God’s presence is heartbreaking and a devastating contrast to life in the garden.
They must have felt hopeless, lost and lonely when this happened. Some of us might relate to those feelings this Christmas. While everyone else looks to have a jolly good time—we may feel more broken and alone than merry. It doesn’t necessarily feel better hearing God gave Jesus as the solution for our brokenness. Thankfully, God is with us no matter how we feel. The solution he offers through Jesus never changes.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
If you’re struggling to navigate these holidays due to heartache, grief or loss of any kind—please join us tonight (December 14) at Blue Christmas. You can still register until 12 PM today at adabible.org/bluechristmas. Or, ask God to show you someone who’s struggling and invite them for coffee, a meal or to join in some of your Christmas activities.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is Revelation 9.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
