OT Fire Starters – Day 2: Genesis 3-5

READ: Genesis 3-5

THINK: Have you ever done something you later regretted? Hopefully you’ve learned that much of what seems “right,” “good,” or “fun” to the majority of people ultimately leads to suffering, humiliation, loss, and-worst of all-separation from God. To avoid these pitfalls, we must listen to God’s instructions and disregard the world’s lies. God has given us so much to enjoy in life, but many things God intended for good can lead to disaster if not handled according to His instruction or used the way He intended. The consequences of our sins may seem minor compared to the trouble caused by Adam and Eve’s choice, but they’re just as fatal. Scripture teaches that disregarding God and doing things our way leads to death (Proverbs 16:25). Thankfully, God provided a remedy by sending His Son to pay the penalty for our sins and to make a way for us to live as God intended.

RESPOND: With whom is the “serpent” identified, and how did he distort God’s words and warnings? (See 3:1, 3:4 and 3:5 notes.) In what ways does Satan continue to use these same tactics? What was the tragic result of the first human’s attempt to “be like God”? (See 3:5 and 3:22 notes.) What were the immediate and the ongoing effects of Adam and Eve’s original sin? (See 3:6 second note and 3:24 note.) In what ways did people’s thoughts and desires change after disobeying God? (See 3:7 note.) How did the first humans react when God confronted them about their sin, and why? (See 3:8 note.) How do people today make the same excuses as Adam and Eve? (See 3:13 note.) Even as God pronounced judgment on sin, what hint did He give regarding His ultimate plan to restore people to a right relationship with Him? (See 3:15 note.) Why did God accept Able’s offering but reject Cain’s? (See 4:3-5 note.) What happens when people “open the door” to sin? How can people remain true to God during times of increasing corruption? (See 5:1 note.) What do you think it means to walk with God as Enoch did? (See 5:22 note.)

PRAY: Ask God to help you recognize the lies and deception that are so prevalent in the world. Thank Him for providing strength to resist sin and forgiveness when we humbly turn to Him for mercy.

ACT: Are you listening to lies or disregarding God’s instructions in any aspect of your life? Close any doors that you’ve left open to temptation. This includes severing toxic relationships, giving up seductive forms of entertainment and avoiding things that distract you from pursuing God’s purposes for your life.