God knows that “the intention of man’s heart is evil,” and to protect the animal kingdom from our selfishness, murderous intentions, cruelty, and greed, He placed the fear of us in them.
In a similar way, when sin entered the world, we covered our bodies and hid them in fear and shame. A natural reaction to our nakedness, yes. But, perhaps a gift from God to protect us from the sins of lust, evil desires, and cruelty that He knew were coming. God not only accepts their decision to cover themselves, but He encourages it by making them more suitable clothes. He wasn’t restricting us. He was protecting us.
The first two mentions of fear can be seen as a protective gift from God in a harsh, cruel world.
Already my mind is whirling. Satan continues to lie to us about modesty, true freedom, and restrictive religion. Truth, however is in the loving plan of a creator who is Love Himself. He wants to protect us.
Just as there are trustworthy humans who are able to tame the wild animals, there are trustworthy times – like marriage – where we should be safe to be exposed. And God Himself gives us a covenant through Jesus, and with Him, we are perfectly safe to be seen for who we really are. He loves us regardless.
At this moment, I’m thinking fear isn’t the enemy. It’s an emotion. But where does it send me? Cowering and alone, or covered in His love?
