Did God Really Say…?

As we progress in the series Following Jesus, we are learning more about how God has revealed His truth through Scripture, and that even Jesus studied the scriptures. We don’t have to figure out truth on our own if we trust and listen to what God tells us. Before we begin, let’s invite the Holy Spirit into our time of learning and reflection, with a prayer.

Heavenly Father, I love You. I am so thankful for Your presence in my life. More than anything, I want to listen for Your voice, and follow Your truths. Help me understand that Your truths, and not those of this world, are what truly matter. I put my trust in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Genesis 3:1-7 (NLT)
1The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?”

2 “Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied. 3 “It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’”

4 “You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. 5 “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.”

6 The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too. 7 At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves.

Yesterday we focused on the fact that God’s truth can help us see through the lies and deceptions of our enemies. Today we will look at how our spiritual enemies try to create doubt in our minds.

Last year, I experienced an event that caused me to promise God I would never do something again. As time has passed, I have kept my promise, but sometimes I feel a strong temptation to fall back into my sinful ways. It’s as if there is a force inside of me trying to help me justify going back on my promise to God. I ask myself, “Did I really hear God tell me to stop doing what I was doing? Did He really mean forever? It would probably be okay just this once, wouldn’t it?” Have you ever second-guessed hearing God’s voice telling you to do, or not do, something?

Today’s Scripture certainly illustrates how easily we can be tempted into doing something we know would displease God. Just like Eve, sometimes we hear what we want to hear, not what is the truth. But we know better. As disciples of Jesus, we must be able to discern God’s voice over those of the spiritual forces that are trying to distract and deceive us. Do you think God would ever ask us to do something disobedient to His commands, or harmful to our salvation?

As I strive to keep my promise to God, I continue to pray I can quiet those deceitful voices that try to convince me otherwise.

Take some time to reflect on today’s Scripture and questions, then take your needs and concerns to God in prayer. Spend as much time as you need focusing on God’s love for us and how much He cares for our salvation. Use the following prompts if you need help getting started.

Ask God to help you rely on His truths as you make decisions for your life.

Reach out to God for strength to discern His voice over all the deceptive ones trying to trick and destroy you.

I pray God’s Word continues to be the guiding force in your life in times of spiritual turmoil.