Eve

<<the first woman>>

The female “helper suitable for him” that God made for, and created from part of Adam (Gen 2:18,21,22). She was the first woman on earth and is sometimes called the ‘mother’ of the human race. Her story is told in Genesis 2:18-4:25.

She and Adam lived in close fellowship with God until tempted by Satan to sin – she doubted, disbelieved, and disobeyed God’s command, so was defeated. Eve was deceived by Satan while Adam disobeyed (Rom 5:19; 2 Cor 11:3; 1 Tim 2:14). This rebellion against God resulted in the loss of a personal, close relationship with God Almighty for all humanity. This can only be restored through accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.

Lessons from her life: * Eve’s attention was turned away from all the other trees they could eat from and focused on the one forbidden tree (Gen 2:16,17). Satan sowed seeds of discontent and dissatisfaction tempting her to doubt God’s goodness and abundant provision by questioning “Did God really say…?” (Gen 3:1,4,5). It is essential to clearly know God’s Word and commandments so we will not be gullible, fall for Satan’s deception of compromise or a twisting of the truth, and disobey the directions He has given for our benefit. Are we like Eve, ignoring His clear statements? Which part of His “You must not…” don’t we understand? Instead of being content with and enjoying the abundance of provision freely available, she desired the one thing that was off-limits. Value what you have and don’t allow the pull of ‘forbidden fruit’ lead you astray. Don’t give Satan a foot hold but resist him (Eph 4:27; Jas 4:7). There needs to be a firm consistent stand against the persistent demands to give in and yield to sin, knowing that the price of sin is high.

* Eve impulsively acted in a major decision without first checking with God or Adam. In life’s major decisions get wise counsel from others and don’t rush into things, as the consequences can affect a lot of people, in many ways, for a long time!

* She allowed her eyes and physical senses to override her spirit (Gen 3:6). Our spirit, under the control of the Holy Spirit, should be master of our souls and body. If our physical desires are not under control, they will lead us into all sorts of problems. Self-control is one manifestation of the Holy Spirit working within (Gal 5:22-24). Is this evident in my life?

* She shared the forbidden fruit, passing some to Adam (Gen 3:6). Peer pressure is real and unless there are strong convictions, people yield to the subtle temptation to compromise and fit in with the crowd. Unfortunately, standards are more easily relaxed than they are maintained or re-established.

* Sin separates and breaks fellowship with God (Gen 3:7,8). Even having a close fellowship with God doesn’t make you immune to temptation which, although not a sin, will lead to sin if acted on. Until the day we die, the life we live in this body of carnal flesh has desires contrary to Gods, through which Satan would try to alienate us from the source of divine life and power. We are confronted with ‘forbidden fruit’ too – things which are off-limits. Say ‘No’ to the temptations of the flesh, knowing that bad choices take us away from God.

* When things don’t go our way or we are confronted with wrong doing, the most basic human reaction is to blame others, stating it is their fault (Gen 3:12,13). This tendency of human nature not to own up for our failing and sin does not resolve the issue but only creates more problems. Only sin that is repented of can be forgiven (1 Jn 1:9). Do I acknowledge my sin? The wrongdoing of another is mostly their responsibility to deal with, not ours (Mt 7:3-5).

* She became the mother of all humans and together with Adam passed on the nature of sin (Rom 5:12; 1 Cor 15:22). Parents have a great responsibility to pass on to their children good life principles. What legacy am I passing on to the younger generation in my family and circle of friends?