Stop Playing the Blame Game

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, June 13, 2023
Then the man said, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.”
Genesis 3:12 (NKJV)

Human beings love playing the blame game. Our first parents bequeathed it to us. It all started with the fateful discussion between Eve and the serpent. Satan employed a mixture of truth and lies to entice the woman to eat the forbidden fruit. Eve then convinced Adam to disobey God, too.

Adam Blames Eve and God

The harsh reality set it when God confronted the Adam and Eve. Before pronouncing the dreadful consequences, though, God interrogated the pair. First up was Adam. He was the chief steward and the buck stopped with him.

“Why, Adam?” God asked, indirectly. “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.” (Genesis 3:12). It was not me. Eve lured me to sin. Moreover, had you not brought Eve into my life, I would have remained faithful to you!

Eve Blames the Serpent and God

When Eve’s turn came, she borrowed from Adam’s script and told God, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” (Verse 13). It was not me really. If You had not created the serpent that deceived me, we would not be having this conversation.

The blame virus continues to bite the children of Adam and Eve. We refuse to take responsibility for our mistakes and sins. Instead, we look for scapegoats, including people around us, and those not within reach. Everyone and everything is culpable except ourselves. Our favourite scapegoat remains the old serpent – Satan!

I Acknowledge My Transgressions

Ironically, refusing to own up does not free us from guilt. Instead, it lessens our ability and willingness to confront our sins and weaknesses and experience real change by God’s grace. Acknowledging we have erred and asking for forgiveness are major steps towards personal and group healing.

David set a good example when he told God, “For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned and done this evil in Your sight.” (Psalms 51:3-4). The prodigal son echoed David when he said “Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.” (Luke 15:21).

Stop Playing the Blame Game

Stop playing the blame game. Take responsivity for your failures and transgressions. Offer apologies where they are due, including to God. Start playing your roles, wherever God has played you. Blame is a bottomless pit while admitting you are wrong creates innumerable opportunities for personal growth and healing of relationships.

Prayer
Dear Father, I do not want to play the blame game anymore. Help me take responsibility for my mistake and make requisite amends.