Suggested Reading: Genesis 1:26-28 and Psalms 139
Last month we focused on how sin entering through Adam and Eve shifted the focus of mankind from God’s internal beauty on the inside of us and purpose, to external distractions.
This action introduced what A. W. Tozer calls “The Fig-leaf Religion” in his book entitled “The Purpose of Man” (pages 23-25). Fig leaf religion always focuses on the externals, and Adam and Eve were consumed with their outward condition. They had lost the focus of their inward beauty and purpose, and no longer satisfied the criteria of fellowship with their Creator. As this shameful story continues to unfold, we see how the “blame game” is learned and used by Adam and Eve against each other and the serpent for the condition of their souls and sinning against God. Blaming someone else for all of our iniquities is one of the great evidences of sin and the fore-runner of religion. It’s like being hijacked and barred from the knowledge of God, and rebelling against your purpose. The real tragedy in the Garden of Eden was that Adam and Eve “lost their purpose”.
Praise God that His eternal love for us was shown and provided through Jesus Christ and His shed blood for all of our sins; past, present and future. He redeemed God’s purpose for each of our lives. He made it possible for us to enter into His Presence to worship Him in truth and Spirit. The Lord knows His own and He has perfect knowledge of you. As a matter of fact in the book of Psalms Chapter 139, it states that God knew you before you were formed in the secret place and in your mother’s womb. He knows your sitting down and rising up, He knows your thoughts that are far off. In other words, He knows your thoughts before you think them. What love your Heavenly Father has for you. Not even your earthly parents can know you or love you as God does. God’s thoughts toward you are precious and numerous and His mercies are new every day, so let’s praise Him with a new song in our hearts giving thanks for His new mercies. Praise the Name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior Who has redeemed us with purpose to worship God and live life abundantly.
Reflection and Prayer: Lord God help me to not practice the Fig-leaf religion by focusing on my outward condition. I desire to focus on my internal relationship with You. I accept your design and purpose for my life, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made according to Your Word (Psalm 139). Thank You for knowing me better than I know myself. In Jesus Name. Amen.