Did God Really Say?

Now the serpent was more subtle and crafty than any living creature of the field which the Lord God had made. And he [Satan] said to the woman, Can it really be that God has said, You shall not eat from every tree of the garden?

─ Genesis 3:1 AMPC

When questions are asked, we always have to ask ourselves, who is asking this question? There is a point where debating and arguing with people is a waste of time because we live by faith, and if God has indeed said it, then that’s where we walk.

The serpent asked Eve, did God really say that to you (Genesis 3:1)? In reply, Eve started a debate with the evil one. She then added to God’s word, saying, “If we touch the tree we’ll die.” God never told the woman she couldn’t touch the fruit. But as you read Genesis 3, you can see the deception as it begins to occur in Eve’s mind.

This question posed to Eve led to destruction for all of us. Eve started to argue and to defend, and suddenly, her desire took over. Eve went from truth to deception, and from deception to sin. That’s always the sequence.

The serpent tempted Eve by getting her to doubt God’s goodness. He implied that God was strict, stingy and selfish for not wanting Eve to share His knowledge of good and evil. We also fall into trouble when we dwell on what God forbids rather than on the countless blessings and promises He has given us.

Today’s One Thing

Choose today to focus on God’s goodness. Remember the blessings God has poured out on your life. Count them on your fingers. List at least five. Then when Satan whispers in your ear, “Did God really say,” you can avoid his temptation and stand firm in God’s promises.

Receive Devotionals like This in Your Email