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The Depravity of Man

Advent Day 5: The Depravity of Man

Posted on December 5, 2018May 8, 2020 by Cheerful Soul

Read Genesis 3:1-7. Our first real encounter with Eve occurs in the Garden of Eden. And nearly instantly, we see the depravity of man unveiled. She is approached by a “serpent who is more crafty than any other beast in the field” (v.1).

The Meaning of Crafty

Here’s what “Crafty” does NOT mean:

  • His favorite store was Michael’s
  • He had a huge Pinterest following
  • He knew how to knit like my grandmother

The Hebrew word for crafty is arum, meaning subtle, shrewd, sly, or sensible. Satan is someone who can pull the wool over your eyes. A smooth talker. A liar (John 8:44). One who doesn’t have your best interest in mind. 

Who is Satan?

Satan, a fallen angel (Jude 1:6), desires to have power and authority over God. Satan continues to lead this rebellion today and bring many with him. He desires to be fully exalted to the position that only belongs to God. In his attempt to deceive and tempt, He subtly asks Eve, “Did God actually say? (v. 3)”

Then doubt creeps in. Takes root. And grows. 

The Depravity of Man

As I ponder this initial sin, I am reminded of the sin in my own life. How I am tempted to doubt God. Is God really good? Does He truly love me? Are His words true? Can I trust Him? Why is being a Christian so hard? Like Eve, it is tempting to look to the tangible things of this world for our hope and security. It is tantalizing to try to control our Lil’ ole’ worlds. It is desirous to jump on the bandwagon of materialism for Christmas. But if I do, would God be pleased? Would the longings of my soul be satisfied?

When we try to fill our longings with anything other than God, we will come up empty-handed. The serpent’s promise to “be like god” (v. 5) is something we all wrestle with. We wrestle with control. We think God is holding out on us. If we could, we would run our lives differently. 

“If I️”…
  • Make more money, I will be satisfied.
  • My marriage is better, I will be happy.
  • Didn’t wrestle with my weight, then I wouldn’t feel insecure.
  • My health is better, I will feel complete.
  • Had more free time, I could live my dream.
Understanding the Doctrine of Sin

We must understand the doctrine of sin. Sin is what has disrupted God’s original design. Sin and its consequences have resulted in a broken relationship with God. But thankfully, this story is not done! God does not abandon us here. He sends us Jesus to overcome sin and its consequences through the gift of salvation. Jesus is God’s answer to the problem of sin. This is why Christmas is such a big deal!

We tend to minimize or side-step our depravity of man. However, in doing so, we also are making little of what God has done for us. So, I challenge you today…reflect within. Search your heart. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal your sin. 

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:23-24

Where do you seek satisfaction? 

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AUTHOR//BLOGGER//SPEAKER


Sue is an author, blogger, speaker, and mission enthusiast. In her spare time, you'll catch her hiking in her backyard.

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