Where do you see God’s mercy even in the midst of judgment?
4. God limits the curse — He does not destroy them
The Enduring Word commentary notes that although the consequences are real, God’s judgment is measured, not annihilating.
Humanity is disciplined, not destroyed.
Work becomes harder, but still meaningful.
Childbearing becomes painful, but still fruitful.
The ground is cursed, but not creation itself.
Judgment is present, but mercy restrains it.
🌿 Genesis 3: God’s Mercy in Blocking the Tree of Life
🛑 1. God prevents humans from living forever in a fallen state
David Guzik’s commentary explains that after the fall, if humans had eaten from the Tree of Life, they would have lived forever in their broken, sinful condition — permanently separated from God. Blocking access was therefore protective, not punitive.
Mercy: God refuses to let humanity be eternally trapped in corruption, pain, shame, and spiritual death.