just like eve

“they sewed fig leaves together as makeshift clothes for themselves” (genesis 3:7, msg). we do this. we are just like eve. despite God’s perfect love and abounding grace, we continue to behave just like eve did in the garden that fateful day. the day that changed everything for mankind. the day we became separated from God…but He still showed mercy and compassion. adam and eve tried to hide behind “makeshift” clothing when at the instant they disobeyed God and realized their vulnerability not even realizing that God would soon provide them with proper clothing. “God made clothing for adam and his wife and dressed them” (genesis 3:21, msg). their first instinct was to cover up as if that would undo their mistake. as if that would shield them from shame or guilt.

how often do we squeeze into ill fitting “makeshift” clothing in the forms of identities, pride, shame, self destruction, bitterness…and so on. this story and truth was brought to my attention recently by an anointed speaker at a conference. and God revealed several pieces of clothing i need to clean out of my closet. one is identity. i have almost taken comfort in hiding behind the identity of “single mom,” but to kick it up a notch, i often describe myself as a “hot mess” as if trying to excuse my general lack of gracefulness as i often feel like i stumble through life. which brings up the idol of comparison. but you see, i’m not actually stumbling through life, though compared to those that seem to “have it all together,” i discount the strength and gifts that God has allowed to rise up in me from the ashes of my struggles/heartaches/depression/pain/failures. wearing these identities remind me of the thrift store shirt i buy because it’s one of a kind, vintage and absolutely amazing…but way too small and the vintage cowboy booties i had to have even though they swallow my feet and flop around. it’s the best i can do on my own. but God has created the most beautiful and perfectly fitting clothing for me if i would just put it on! daily! wearing the identity of God’s precious daughter far surpasses the comfort of those baggy, so soft sweats i tend to cling to.