There is a life lesson we can learn from the warning God gave Adam.
As you know, God told him:
“But you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die” (Genesis 2:17 NIV).
We all know he didn’t die a physical death instantly, but spiritually, something shifted that eventually led to it. This pattern is still at work today.
Making bad decisions doesn’t always result in immediate consequences, but it’s like a seed planted that, if nurtured, ultimately brings the fruit of destruction.
Consider when someone runs a red light with no negative consequences. While it may appear that they got away with it, they actually planted a seed.
That decision, in a very subtle way, changed their character. The next time an opportunity to run a red light or take any form of shortcut arises, it will be a little easier to do.
Eventually, the fruit of impatience may manifest itself in the form of some major accident.
Sometimes we hear of the problems people find themselves in and think they were simply unlucky. But while that is possible, sometimes it’s the fruit of previous decisions.
I suppose this is why Proverbs 19:3 says, “A person’s own folly leads to their ruin, yet their heart rages against the Lord” (NIV).
Since the consequence is often delayed, when it eventually comes, they don’t see how it’s their fault.
Therefore, recognize that every decision, no matter how small, makes a difference. The Wise Believer does, and it helps them avoid their own destruction.
