Here we have a second account of creation as the focus goes particularly on the creating of man and woman. Verses v4-6 recounts some aspects of creation to help build up to the climax of creation in making mankind (v7). God’s very personal involvement is seen in making Adam from the dust and breathing life into him. We don’t have a Creator who is distant but One who from the very beginning is very intimately involved in people’s lives.

Reflect on how you have been made to know and love God in an intimate relationship. Think of how God’s heart of love longs to share your life.

We’re introduced to the Garden of Eden(v8) and particularly to the trees there (v9). The trees, that Adam was allowed to eat of, were pleasing to the eye and good for food. The Creator is caring and generous in His provision.

The tree of knowledge of good and evil (v9b, 16-17) was one tree not to be eaten of. Not eating of this tree meant Adam was accepting the Creator’s right to decide what was right and wrong. Adam would have a life of perfect blessing if he obeyed God’s loving commands.

Thank our kind God who gives wonderfully good gifts to His people and who deserves our wholehearted and thankful obedience.