READ: Genesis 3:14-24

Therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden to work the ground from which he was taken. (v. 23)

Life in a fallen world contains endings. Sometimes we know the end is coming. We know we are reading the final pages of a book, we see the clock wind down on an athletic event, or we watch the grand finale of fireworks that signal the conclusion of the show. Sometimes endings are unexpected and potentially painful. A relationship is ended, employment is terminated, or confidentiality is broken.

Adam and Eve’s life outside of the garden was drastically different than it had been in the garden. Now there was sin, work, suffering, and guilt. The end of life as they knew it led to a necessary new beginning. Whether we want them or not, new beginnings follow endings. These can include the start of a new job, the beginning of a new relationship, or entering into the stages of grief.

Thankfully God is with us in new beginnings. In Genesis 4, we find Adam and Eve crediting God for the conception and life of Cain (v. 1), their sons bring offerings to God and converse with him (vv. 3-7), and God graciously puts a mark of protection on Cain after he murders his brother (v. 15).

What ending has led to a new beginning in your life? How can you sense God’s presence with you? How can you prayerfully ask for his help and depend on him as you start anew?

Therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden to work the ground from which he was taken. (v. 23)

PRAYER

Lord, however painful the ending, help me to see hope in a new beginning because you are in control. Amen.