⁶ When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. (Genesis 3:6)

This is the familiar story in the Bible where Adam and Eve messed up big time! Every time we read Genesis 3, we partly blame it on them and forget that we too mess up every day! Like the first couple, we have the following scenario played out on a regular basis:

• We listen to God’s Word that is distorted (v.1-3) and denied (v.4-5) by Satan
• We respond by defying (v.6-7) God’s Word
• Finally, we are forced to receive the decree(v. 8-19) of God’s will

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That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day [2 Cor 4:16]

Do you know what it is to be really tired…not just physical tiredness, but deep mental, emotional and even spiritual weariness? I’ve been there – felt that! The good news is that God knows better than anyone the trials, circumstances, and people that wear you down. And he knows that you need time to be renewed and refreshed by him. Our friends, family, and entertainment can be great sources of fun and rest to be sure, but the only consistent and true source of renewal we have is spending time with our heavenly Father. Remember his promise: …those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint [Isa 40:31]. Read more

“God, God . . . my God! Why did you dump me miles from nowhere? Doubled up with pain, I call to God all the day long. No answer. Nothing. I keep at it all night, tossing and turning.”

Here’s the story I’ll tell my friends when they come to worship, and punctuate it with Hallelujahs: Shout Hallelujah, you God-worshipers; give glory, you sons of Jacob; adore him, you daughters of Israel. He has never let you down, never looked the other way when you were being kicked around. He has never wandered off to do his own thing; he has been right there, listening. Read more

Long enough, GOD — you’ve ignored me long enough. I’ve looked at the back of your head long enough. Long enough I’ve carried this ton of trouble, lived with a stomach full of pain. Long enough my arrogant enemies have looked down their noses at me. Take a good look at me, GOD, my God; I want to look life in the eye, So no enemy can get the best of me or laugh when I fall on my face. I’ve thrown myself headlong into your arms— I’m celebrating your rescue. I’m singing at the top of my lungs, I’m so full of answered prayers.” – Psalm 13:1-6 MSG

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