When we make a mistake, especially an embarrassing one, we want to hide what we did. There are even cute little sayings that encourage you to cover up your stumble. “When you stumble, make it a part of the dance.” – unknown author. We may be able to get away with that when dealing with people. Not so much when dealing with God.

Adam and Eve did what we all do and they tried to hide from God. They blamed each other. They blamed the serpent. Adam even rolled God under the bus. (Genesis 3:12 KJV – And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.) But, God knows all things. He gives us the opportunity to make amends. He asks the question, “Where are you?”

I read something interesting in Genesis chapter 2. It demonstrates what happens when we stumble. Go with me for a sec. Hold this thought: In verses 7 and 8, the bible describes man being formed. It also describes the garden being planted to the east of where man was formed and then man was placed in the garden. And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. Genesis 2:7-8 (KJV)

Now, let’s fast forward to Genesis 3 when God banishes Adam and Eve from the garden. Verse 23 states: Therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. Genesis 3:23 (KJV) So, what does this mean for us? God created us on purpose for a purpose. He already knows that we are going to make mistakes. Look what happens when Adam and Eve fell…

When Adam and Eve disobeyed and ate the fruit, God put them right back where Adam was made. God did not put them out of the garden to wander. (He did and He didn’t.) God gave them provision. He gave them clothing that would withstand the elements. He still gave them a place to perform their purpose. So, what does this mean for us? Although we stumble, God does not abandon us.

When we stumble, He is there. Every step of the way He is there. He gives us provision and reminds us of our purpose. He does this so that we get up. So, we don’t stay knocked down. He may not physically bring us back to where we started but He will remind us of where we came from. How far we have walked. He will remind us that we have come too far for Him to leave us. So, when you stumble, get up! Recognize the provision that you have. Remember, you are still in purpose. Say, “God forgive me,” and turn from what made you stumble.

Keep walking. Have faith. ~ Selah