Did God Really Say? Eve, Discernment, and the Power of Knowing Scripture.

The Serpent Didn’t Start with a Bite, but with a Question

Genesis 3 opens with a strategy that’s still effective: confuse God’s Word.

“Did God actually say…?” (Genesis 3:1)

That question is not curiosity. It’s a wedge. Because once you’re unsure about what God said, it becomes easier to doubt who God is.

Discernment isn’t about being suspicious of everything. It’s about being grounded enough in truth that the counterfeit stands out.

What Eve’s Conversation Teaches Us

Notice the movement:

1. Question God’s Word (Genesis 3:1)

2. Reframe God’s character (“God is withholding”) (Genesis 3:5)

3. Inflame desire (“desirable…to make one wise”) (Genesis 3:6)

4. Rush the decision (Genesis 3:6)

That’s not ancient history. That’s Tuesday afternoon.

“Know What God Really Said” — Why Precision Matters

Eve responds, but the conversation reveals vulnerability: she engages the deception instead of fleeing it (Genesis 3:2–3). And what happens next is sobering: the serpent confidently contradicts God (Genesis 3:4), offering a new “truth.”

This is why Jesus’ example matters so much. When tempted, Jesus responds with Scripture—clearly and decisively (Matthew 4:1–11). He doesn’t debate Satan’s spin. He answers with God’s Word.

Truth isn’t just a concept; it’s protection.

• “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

• “The word of God is living and active…” (Hebrews 4:12)

If you want guided, Scripture-based reflections you can actually finish (and share), see the “Women of the Bible” book (buy here)

Practical Discernment in a Loud World

Try these three habits:

1) Recognize the “God-is-withholding” narrative
Any thought that makes God look cruel, petty, or unreliable is suspect. Eden shows God as provider (Genesis 2:9, 2:16). The serpent paints God as gatekeeper (Genesis 3:5). That contrast matters.

2) Don’t negotiate with temptation
Eve stayed in the conversation (Genesis 3:1–3). Scripture repeatedly warns us to flee—not flirt (James 4:7, 1 Corinthians 10:13).

3) Replace lies with written truth
When you feel pulled toward compromise, ask:

• What does Scripture say about God’s heart?

• What does Scripture say about me?

• What does Scripture call wise here?

A Quick “Discernment Prayer” for Real Life

“Lord, sharpen my discernment. Help me recognize deception quickly. Anchor me in Your Word. Make truth louder than every other voice. Amen.”

If you’re building a rhythm of Scripture-based reflection (and you want devotionals that make Bible women feel real and relatable), this is a great spot to explore your next read:
“Women of the Bible” book (buy here)