Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.

Genesis 3:7

One of the hardest things to do today is to convince people, and sometimes us, of sin. We live in a world where people are self-made, successful, and goal oriented. Pride keeps us from realizing the level and depth of our sin. Like Adam and Eve, we end up using fig leaves to cover our sin and hide from God. 

The first thing Adam and Eve did in the garden after sinning was to hide from God. They tried to cover their shame with fig leaves. We do the same when we say, “I am a decent person, I am better than so and so.” We compare ourselves with others and their sins.

The eyes of them both were opened. —This consciousness of guilt came upon them as soon as they had broken God’s commandment by eating of the forbidden fruit; and it is evident from the narrative that they ate together; for otherwise Eve would have been guilty of leading Adam into sin after her understanding had been enlightened to perceive the consequences of her act. But manifestly her deed was not without his cognizance and approval, and he had shared, in his own way, her ambition of attaining to the God like. But how miserably was this proud desire dis appointed! Their increased knowledge brought only shame. Their minds were awakened and enlarged, but the price they paid for it was their innocence and peace. Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

John clarifies that this is how we deceive ourselves daily. If we do not come to the realization that we are all sinners in need of a Savior, then we will never bow our knee to a God who can save us. We might end up thinking that we can save ourselves. How do we do this? We pursue everything in life to cover that need––we strive to have a perfect family, husband or wife, we accumulate things or even good works! For that reason, we crave followers, money, and a good reputation. We cover our sin, trying to look good. 

However, Jesus says God alone is good! (Mark 10:18) The way to pursue God is not perfection but direction. And the way to God the Father is Jesus. We have access to the throne of God through Jesus when we confess our sins. Confession means surrender; it acknowledges our condition and position before God. Once we confess, we find love, healing, freedom, and with God, everything else. 

At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves.

gENESIS 3:7 nlt

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