Daily Devotional

“The Lord God said, ‘It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him’” (Genesis 2:18).

Something was amiss. Seven times God had pronounced the creation “good.” But a startling change comes in Genesis 2:18. “God said, ‘It is not good that man should be alone’ ” (emphasis added). The negative terminology adds an exclamation point to the incompleteness of Adam without a companion.

So, God administered the first anaesthesia in our world and “caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam” (verse 21). Then the Lord took one of Adam’s ribs and from it formed a woman. As a perfect matchmaker, God “brought her to the man” (verse 22). The Bible doesn’t say how their love blossomed, but we do know that they were joined in a holy wedding service presided over by their Creator.

Many cultures admire the strength and self-sufficiency of mavericks. Perhaps Hollywood has shaped our veneration of the “lone ranger.” There is certainly a place for self-governing. We must each make our own choices in life. But this is only half of the picture.

God’s plan was that no man or woman be an island. Humans were created as social creatures. The need for community and conversation is built into the fabric of our being. We all need someone to walk beside us, to listen to and to care for. Food nurtures our bodies, but friendships nurture our soul.

Eve came from Adam. She was, in his words, “bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh” (verse 23). Yet she was different, and her unique qualities complemented his. Together, this interdependent couple represented the image of God.

God of creation, thank You for the gift of marriage, a sacred union built on an affectionate bond that expresses Your likeness.