Each year, rather than a New Year’s resolution per se, I like to pick a word to focus on. For 2024, my word is “knowledge.” My goal is to increase my Biblical literacy with an added focus on things I can learn from strong women in the scripture.
Enter our theme for the year: Belles of the Bible.
Each month I will focus on a different belle and the lessons she imparted to us about hospitality, grace and manners. Since January is about fresh starts, I couldn’t think of a better belle to begin with than Eve herself. She’s the first woman named in the Bible, so it only seems fitting for her to kick off our series.
The Art of the Apology
As we reflect on Eve, the first lesson that jumps out to me is the importance of owning up to our mistakes and apologizing when we fall short.
In Genesis 3:13, God asks Eve what she has done. Much like Adam, Eve initially attempts to shirk the blame. Adam blames Eve, and Eve blames the serpent, saying “The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.”
God is not fooled by either of them and their punishment is doled out accordingly. But more importantly, so is forgiveness. Eve serves as a reminder that God also wants to forgive us and see us go on to do better. But it is important that we are honest with Him in our repentance—there is nothing worse than someone who plays the blame game or gives an insincere apology.
The same applies when we need to rectify a sticky situation in our lives. When I’ve downright goofed, I like to keep these three tips in mind:
Let the person you hurt express their feelings
Own up to what you did and express remorse.
Discuss how you will change your behavior in the future to avoid further hurt.
Standing Up to Peer Pressure
Eve serves as a stark reminder to steer clear of situations we know are wrong.
…but knowing how to exit a difficult situation can sometimes be tricky.
If you’re worried about coming off as “rude” by dipping when you’re uncomfortable, consider these points:
Real friends or truly professional individuals will respect your boundaries. Anyone who is willing to bully or push you isn’t good company.
Don’t feel like you have to explain yourself. A simple “no” is a sufficient answer. Diving into a list of reasons is unnecessary and will only give the other party an opening to argue.
If you are declining an event which makes you feel uncomfortable, but wish the maintain the relationship, politely decline but counter with an offer. For example, “I can’t make it Saturday, but I’d love to meet you for coffee next week!”
Redeeming Ourselves
While Eve gives us a prime example of falling short, she also serves as a reminder that redemption is always possible through Christ.
Despite her shortcomings, God forgives Eve and blesses her and Adam. He clothes them both, and Eve is given sons. She will go on to have the honor of being the mother of all living—despite her imperfections.
God believes in our potential even though He knows we aren’t perfect. What is important is that we do our best—and when we inevitably fall short, we repent and try again with a sincere heart.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” - II Corinthians 5:17
I am so excited to continue our Belles of the Bible theme with you. Next, we will explore one of my favorite love stories in the Bible. Any guesses as to who our next belle will be? Comment below!