Hi Everyone,

Today I want to look at what caused Adam and Eve's downfall, which brought sin into the world. Have a read of Genesis 2:15-25, 3:1-13.

 In verse 3:13 Eve says to God, "The serpent deceived me."

So how did they fall for the enemy's deception and what can we learn from this?

1)  God spoke to Adam before Eve was made and told him that the only tree they could not eat from was "the tree of the knowledge of good and evil." (verse 2:16-17).

So did he tell Eve exactly what God had said or was it his own version? Why did he not speak up? He was standing right next to Eve! (verse 3:6)

Tells us, don't twist Scripture or take it out of context but receive it as it is! Also, don't stand by in silence when you see a brother or sister going down the wrong path. Say something!

2)  Notice Satan didn't force Eve, he just made a suggestion which put doubt in her mind, which caused her to question God's goodness, love and motives. When she responded she had added to the Word God had given them. (verse 3:3)

Beware! The devil is a liar! The father of lies, Jesus called him! - John 8:44

Jesus said if we know the Truth, the Truth will set us free. - John 8:32

But if we don't know the truth of God's word correctly we can be easily deceived. It's so important to know God's Word for ourselves, not because someone else said so.

Eve got second-hand information! Read the Word for yourself, let it speak to you,then when the enemy comes and puts questions in your mind you can boldly say

"it is written" (as Jesus did in Matthew 4:3-11).

3)  In Genesis 3:6 she was convinced, Eve saw that the tree was beautiful and the fruit looked delicious and she wanted wisdom. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life! (1 John 2:15-17)

Beware of what you look at and what you listen to! Not everything we see and hear is beneficial to our lives. In fact, it can cause us much pain! God didn't withhold that fruit to deprive them, but to protect them and He does the same to us. If the scripture says not to do something then it's because God is protecting us from danger and pain in the future. Trust Him! Also, beware of pride! It's an open door for the enemy in our lives! Beware of the love of money. Don't make it your god!

(Hebrews 13:5)

So in conclusion:

Know the word for yourself.

Don't be deceived by only half knowing the Word.

Speak up when you see the enemy trying to step in!

Beware of Pride!

Let me leave you with 1 Peter 5:6-9

"So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God and at the right time He will lift you up in honour. Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares for you.

Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith!"