Genesis - Fall

Genesis 3 reveals the enemy's timeless tactic to break down our relationship with God, others, and creation by sowing doubt, desire, and shame. The serpent's first play is to question God's character with, “Did God really say?” making God seem untrustworthy and holding back good for us. Next, temptation exploits our desires by making forbidden fruit appear satisfying—but like fame today, these desires never truly fulfill because our hearts were made to be satisfied by God. Finally, the breakdown leads to shame and hiding, as Adam and Eve cover their nakedness and hide from God, reflecting the human tendency to hide our brokenness instead of bringing it to God. Yet, the gospel offers restoration: God searches for us even when we hide, and Jesus, who was broken for us, meets us to put us back together. The takeaway is to trust God's character, bring our desires honestly to Him, and stop hiding our brokenness to live in the freedom and restoration God offers.

• The enemy's first tactic is to sow doubt about God's character and intentions.
• This breakdown starts with the question, "Is God really for me?" undermining trust.

• Life’s hardest trials can challenge belief that God is for us, as Josh experienced firsthand.
• Such seasons can deepen trust and bring greater intimacy with God over time.