Creation Started with a Choice (Achievement Nudge)

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Last Updated on November 18, 2024 by Bill Truby

From the very beginning, according to Scripture, life as we know it began with a choice. In Genesis, the creation story unfolds the picture of a beautiful, harmonious world. God created the universe, animals, and finally, Adam and Eve. The world was pure perfection: the climate ideal, the food abundant and delicious, and even the relationship between Adam and Eve was without flaw.

But here’s the key – Adam and Eve didn’t know how good they had it. They were innocent of any experience outside this perfection. They only knew goodness; they had no concept of evil, hardship, sickness, or trouble. How could they? They had never encountered such things. And because of that reality, in truth, they didn’t have choice. So God gave them the tree…

“Look,” God said, “here are two trees. If you eat from this first tree, you will keep everything you know now—this goodness, peace, and joy will remain forever. But the second tree is different. Eating from it will give you knowledge of both good AND evil. You won’t understand what that entails, but trust me, it’s something you don’t want to experience.

And then, God took Adam and Eve on a walk through the magnificent Garden of Eden. Like children seeing the world with fresh eyes, they listened as God introduced them to the idea of choice.

“Still,” He said, “the choice is yours, and that power of choice is my greatest gift to you. I give you the power to choose. I won’t take it away, and no one and no thing can take it from you, either. You will always decide who you are, whom you trust, what you believe, and how you live. These choices will shape your mindset, your actions, and your character. This power is yours and yours alone. Without this second tree, you wouldn’t have this power. Now you do. Cherish it!”

Without choice, there would be no freedom, no love, and no true relationship. “Choice” is so powerful, so important, so much a part of being free. That’s why God allowed for the second tree, setting life into motion on the foundation of choice. Would they keep the door of innocence closed to evil, living in peace and joy? Or would they open the door to the unknown, to a life touched by both good and evil? The stakes were monumental; the power of choice was, and still is, immense.

This story isn’t just about Genesis; it reflects a core truth found across all existence-philosophies, religions, and beliefs. Choice holds the power to shape our experiences and future. No divine being or force imposes on our freedom; instead, it’s our own choices that invite positivity or fill our lives with fear and regret. Our choice determines out mindset and attitude for our “now” and it shapes the direction of our future.

Yet, many people don’t realize this power within. Often, they live with a “victim mentality” – a belief that life’s circumstances, others’ expectations, or outside forces control their actions, thoughts, and feelings. How often do we catch ourselves saying, “I have to…” or “I should…”? These words often carry the assumption that something outside ourselves is dictating our response.

But the truth is, choice alone has the power to shatter this myth. No matter what life brings, those who embrace their ability to choose are free and realize that no one and no situation can define them. We may not control everything that happens to us, but we can always control how we respond. And this power of choice? It’s ours alone, unshakable and enduring.

If you feel you’ve lost your sense of choice, it’s time to take it back. You’ve always had it—it’s never left you. It’s waiting for you to remember the incredible strength within, to live freely, and to step fully into the life you choose. But…if YOU don’t THINK you have the power of choice, YOU WON’T. Plus, if that’s the way you think…you probably already gave it away.

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This article is part of our ongoing Achievement Nudge series—short, witty, and often inspirational articles to spark your personal and professional growth. Explore more nudges on our blog, or sign up for our weekly Nudge and News email. Each edition includes an Achievement Nudge plus leadership, professional development, and personal growth videos and articles to keep you inspired and on track.

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