 Thursday: In Spite of All Warning
Of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has
said, "You shall not eat of it, neither shall you touch it, lest you die."
Genesis 3:3
Everyone encounters difficulty or danger from time to time. Sometimes danger
will take us by surprise. Most of the time, though, plenty of information
is available, and there are many signs and warnings in advance. Consider
driving a car from one town to another. Some information is painted on the
road itself, including dashed lines to mark the lanes and solid lines to
mark "no passing" zones. Signs are posted beside the road with other information
like speed limits, school zones, intersections, and steep road grades. Barricades
are placed to prevent us from driving into dangerous conditions. If there
is flooding or other dangers, traffic officers may be stationed to monitor
the situation and give warnings directly to each driver.
We have to make decisions when we receive information. We avoid collisions
by staying inside the lines. We take extra care driving through school zones
and over steep grades. We stop at barricades to avoid hazards. We listen
to warnings from traffic officers because we know that failure to follow
their instructions can have dire consequences.
In the Garden of Eden, God provided Adam and Eve all of the signs that they
needed. He warned them personally. If there was any question about it, Eve
quoted God's warning when she spoke with the serpent. In spite of all warning,
though, they crossed the line. They crashed the barriers. They embraced danger
instead of love. They found themselves separated from their Maker.
Before we judge them too harshly, though, we have to step back. What lines
do we cross? What barriers do we crash? What warnings do we ignore?
We are on a journey to encounter God. God's lines are straight. His signs
are clear. His barriers protect us. His warnings are for our safety. Danger
on a spiritual journey is not exciting. It is only dangerous. We should embrace
His love.
God, I know that you love me. I know that you only seek to bless me. Give
me eyes to see your signs. Give me wisdom to follow your way. When I am tempted
to throw caution to the wind and bear my soul to the perils of sin, warn
me again. Give me the humility and courage to heed your words, for I know
that in your paths my soul is safe. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
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