Have you ever doubted God’s intentions when tempted to sin against him? If you are a human being, you probably have experienced this at one time or another. This is exactly what Morris brings while discussing the serpent’s tactics with Eve in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:1-5).
“If one studies each situation closely enough, he will find that sin always begins by questioning either the Word of God or the goodness of God, or both. This is the age-old lie of Satan, the lie with which he deceived himself in the first place, and which succeeded so well with our first parents that he has used it ever since.”
Henry M. Morris, The Genesis Record, (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1976), 110.
His view is not uncommon, as I’ve heard many preachers say the same thing. But, as I thought about it this morning, it made me consider this more in depth. Do all temptations lead us to question the truth of the Bible or God’s goodness? When I am tempted to break one of the Ten Commandments, is this the core issue? I think it is. For instance, coveting takes my focus away from God’s promise to provide for my needs as I make his kingdom a priority (Matt. 6:25-34). Immorality/Adultery evidences a disbelief in God’s good design for mariage (Heb. 13:4). Even a refusal to confront a person about his sin or need of the gospel can be the result of questioning God’s goodness because it puts you in an uncomfortable place. The list could go on.
The truth is that God knew what was best for Adam and Eve in the beginning. The knowledge of good and evil was not a step toward deity or even something that would help them enjoy a better life. But the temptation caused them to doubt God’s plan and the eventually succumbed to it. Sadly, the result of their sin still affects us today. We must learn from their mistake. In every situation, check your thinking. Are you doubting God’s goodness or something that the Scriptures say? Be careful or you will end up making the same conscious decision that Adam and Eve did. Instead of doubting Him, choose to trust God and His Word today. You will never regret it.
