A Bad Plan

“Well, that was a bad decision.â€

“I can’t believe we did that.â€

“So, now what? You know He’ll find out.â€

“Hmmm. I have an idea. See all those bushes and trees over there? Let’s hide.â€

“Good plan.â€

In the story of Adam and Eve, we witness one of the worst strategies ever created. After eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, Adam and Eve felt ashamed and guilty, a common response to wrongdoing. Then, they decided to hide from God.

True story. These two humans were trying to hide from the all-knowing Creator of the universe. Gently and clearly, God drew them out from their hiding places, clothed them, and barred them from the Garden of Eden. It was a humbling moment for Adam and Eve.

As much as we want to mock them, it’s our natural response to hide when we do wrong. It’s embarrassing to admit the truth of our sin. We would rather hide until it all blows over. God has other plans, and He has gone to great lengths to make it possible for us to receive mercy and grace.

How far? The Father sent His very own Son as a payment for our sins. While we have committed sin in the darkness and hidden afterward, Jesus died during the middle of the day, in front of witnesses, so all could see His sacrifice.

Our sin is not the end of the story. We’re not meant to live in the dark shadows of shame. We all sin, every day, but Christ’s death paid the price for our sin, allowing us to live unashamed in the light. • Mike Hurley

• How was God merciful in His response to Adam and Eve’s sin?

• What should our response be when we sin? Why are we free to go to Jesus when we sin (Hebrews 4:14-16)?

My little children, I am writing you these things so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ the righteous one. He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours, but also for those of the whole world. 1 John 2:1-2 (CSB)

Read Verses:

Genesis 3:8-9; 1 John 1:9-2:2