The first question from God that we find in scripture, is in Genesis 3:9, and is addressed to Adam — “Where are you?” That topic was well covered in a recent sermon by Koen, and needs no addition here. But God then turned his attention to Eve, and asked, “What is this that you have done?” (Genesis 3:13). At first, Eve sought to blame the serpent, just as Adam had blamed her. They were like little children who had been caught red-handed, each trying to blame the other, rather than owning up to their sin.

There is no way that Eve could have adequately answer God’s question. She could not have fully foreseen the results of that original sin in the garden. She would not have known what an impact their disobedience would have on the world. Yet, when we look back, we can see — we can understand how one sin can affect so much. What is this that you have done? If God were to inquire of you in the same way that he did of Eve, would you be any better placed to give a full and truthful answer? Would you make excuses, like Eve, and blame someone else for your sin, or can your honestly confess to God your faults and ask for forgiveness.

What is this that you have done? You may never know, in this life, the full consequences of your sin, but God has promised, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Colin R. Vine