Genesis Reflections: When We Are Confused, God Still Gives Grace

Recently I finished reading the Book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible and the beginning of human history and God's plan of salvation. To be honest, I often felt confused while reading—it has a messy timeline, complex relationships, and some stories that are difficult to understand from a modern perspective:

• Why did Abraham marry his half-sister Sarai?
• Why did Sarai give her servant to her husband to bear children?
• Why did Lot's daughters sleep with their father?
• Why did Jacob’s sons slaughter all the men of a city in revenge?

These stories are shocking, and I couldn’t help but wonder: Are these really the actions of spiritual figures in the Bible? As a modern reader, how should I interpret them?

But through deeper reflection and study, I gradually came to some realizations, and I would like to share them here.

The Bible faithfully records history, but that doesn't mean it endorses every action. It honestly shows human failures and darkness. This reveals something very important: God does not use people because they are worthy, but because of His grace and purpose.

Genesis is the beginning of the salvation plan, not a handbook of moral behaviors. If we read Genesis with modern moral standards, we will naturally be confused. But if we view it through the lens of 'human fallenness + God’s salvation,' we will discover:

• After Adam’s sin, God promised that the offspring of the woman would crush the serpent (Gen 3:15)—the first sign of salvation.
• God called Abraham and promised that 'all nations will be blessed through you,' foreshadowing Jesus Christ.
• Even when people stumbled in faith, God remained faithful to His promises.
• In the story of Joseph, we see: 'You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done' (Gen 50:20).

Three Spiritual Reminders:
1. God’s grace is greater than human failure.
2. Do not judge God’s work by appearances.
3. The Bible points us to Christ.

May these questions and reflections encourage you to keep studying the Bible—not to be defeated by confusion, but to discover the wisdom and love of God’s word with a heart of prayer.