Have you ever wondered why Genesis 1:1 is so important? In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, Stephen Davey takes you back to the very beginning—to the foundational truth that “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Why is this statement more than just an introduction to the Bible? Because it reveals who God is: the sovereign Creator who spoke everything into existence. But even more than that, it introduces a God who cares deeply for His creation, including you. Stephen explains how believing in God as the Creator affects every part of your faith—and how it gives you strength to face even the hardest moments of your life.

If you’re struggling to find hope, peace, or a reason to keep going, this episode is for you. Discover why trusting in God as the Creator of all things is the foundation of our faith and the key to understanding His love for us. The God who created the universe can handle your burdens, and He invites you to cast all your cares on Him. Join Stephen as he unpacks the powerful truth of Genesis 1:1 and helps you discover how a caring Creator can make all the difference in your journey.

Have you ever wondered about the exact details of the world's beginning? In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, Stephen Davey dives into Genesis to guide you through the first five days of history. From the creation of light and darkness on Day One to filling the waters and sky with living creatures on Day Five, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for God’s incredible creativity and power. Why does it matter whether God created everything in six literal days? Because it tells us about His authority, precision, and purpose. The Bible makes it clear—God wasn’t just making things; He was crafting the foundation of life itself, day by day.

Stephen explains why each day of creation was intentional and vital for setting up everything else that was to come. You’ll also discover the profound truth that God is not only powerful but also deeply caring. Even though He’s the one who put the stars in the sky, He’s also the God who cares about the details of your life. If you need a reminder of just how powerful and caring your Creator is, this episode will inspire you. Join us as we explore these foundational truths that shape how you view God—and why they bring hope in the midst of everyday struggles.

What makes humanity different from everything else in creation? In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, Stephen Davey takes a deep dive into the creation of Adam as described in Genesis chapters 1 and 2. These chapters reveal that humanity isn’t just an accident or the product of evolution—humans are carefully crafted by God, made in His image, and given a unique purpose on earth. Stephen explains the difference between Genesis 1’s wide-angle view of creation and Genesis 2’s close-up look at Adam and Eve. Learn why these two chapters are complementary, not contradictory, and how they work together to show the incredible care God took in creating humanity.

If you’ve ever struggled with understanding your purpose, this episode will provide insights into why God created you with a unique role, designed to reflect His character. You’ll also learn how the creation of Adam points to your calling, dignity, and the opportunity for a meaningful relationship with God. Join Stephen Davey as he unpacks these foundational truths and reminds you that you are made with purpose and deeply loved by your Creator.

What makes marriage truly sacred? In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, Stephen Davey takes a closer look at the first marriage as described in Genesis 2:18-25. This foundational passage reveals God’s perfect plan for companionship and unity between man and woman. God declared it was "not good for man to be alone," and He went to great lengths to create a helper uniquely designed for Adam—Eve. This wasn’t just about completing Adam’s life, but about setting in place a divine institution called marriage.

Stephen unpacks three key principles that make marriages strong: priority, permanency, and unity. Learn why these concepts are not just cultural constructs but God-given truths that help couples grow closer to each other and to Him. Whether you’re married or single, understanding God’s design for relationships can enrich your life and encourage you to see the value of divine companionship. Join us as Stephen brings these foundational truths to life and provides you with practical applications that can strengthen your faith and relationships.

What made Adam and Eve eat the forbidden fruit, and how did it lead to the fall of all humanity? In this episode, Stephen Davey uncovers the deceptive tactics of the enemy in the Garden of Eden. You’ll see how Satan disarmed Eve, raised doubt, and outright denied God's truth to lead her astray. By understanding these cunning tactics, you can better recognize temptation in your own life. This episode reveals how sin makes false promises, why it never delivers what it claims, and how important it is to trust in God's word over anything else. If you’ve ever struggled with temptation, this episode will help you understand the root of those struggles and provide you with insight to stand firm. Tune in and discover how the story of Eden holds vital lessons for us today.

Do you feel like you’re constantly trying to fix yourself? Ever wonder why even your best efforts leave you feeling empty? Today’s episode dives deep into humanity's original brokenness and our desperate attempts to cover our shame. Stephen Davey takes us back to the Garden of Eden, exploring the immediate consequences of Adam and Eve’s sin. They lost their original brilliance, exchanged God's glory for shame, and tried to fix it themselves with fig leaves—the first ever religious act.

This episode reveals why, even today, our best human efforts can’t restore what was lost in the garden. Discover why humanity keeps hiding from God and why religion, good deeds, and self-improvement can't remove the shame we carry. More importantly, you’ll learn how God’s love and pursuit of His fallen children still apply to us today. God knew where Adam and Eve were, just as He knows where you are. His question remains: "Where are you?" Will you stop hiding and answer His call?

Tune in to understand the true reason behind our brokenness—and the incredible promise of restoration that only God offers.

What does it really mean to live in a fallen world? How did Adam and Eve's disobedience shape every aspect of our lives, from our relationships to the natural world? In this episode, Stephen Davey dives into Genesis to explore the profound consequences of humanity's first sin. You'll learn about the five tragic losses Adam and Eve faced immediately after their disobedience—losses that continue to impact us today.

Discover how sin brought fear into our relationship with God, shattered marital harmony, turned nature against us, and ultimately led to physical death. Understanding these consequences helps us grasp why our world is the way it is—and why we need a Savior. But amidst the pain and consequences, there’s a glimmer of hope. God’s grace is evident even in the darkest moments of Genesis, as He points to the promise of a coming Redeemer.

Whether you're grappling with personal guilt, broken relationships, or the challenges of living in a fallen world, this episode will provide perspective, encouragement, and hope in the midst of it all. Listen now to understand both the depths of our fall and the heights of God’s amazing grace.

What does the curse of sin mean for humanity, and how does God’s promise of redemption bring us hope? In this episode, Stephen Davey takes us back to Genesis to explore the devastating consequences of sin and the curse that affected every part of creation. You'll learn about the expulsion from Eden, the pronouncement of future pain, and the ultimate separation from God. But even amidst the heartbreak, God speaks of a future Redeemer who will crush the head of the serpent.

Discover how the cherubim guarding Eden represented our separation from God and how the sacrificial system was established as a shadow of what was to come. This episode will show you the astonishing ways God symbolized the promise of restoration throughout history—from the garments of skins given to Adam and Eve to the cherubim embroidered into the temple’s veil. And you’ll see how Jesus’ sacrifice broke every barrier, fulfilling the promise given in the garden.

This is a message of both loss and triumph—where sin’s curse was met with God’s unyielding grace. Listen now to find out how the ancient promise of a Redeemer brings hope and access to God’s presence today.

How do you approach God—with humility or on your own terms? In this episode, Stephen Davey examines the story of Cain and Abel, two brothers who brought very different offerings to the Lord. Abel followed God's command, offering a lamb, while Cain decided to bring the fruit of his own labor. The difference between these two offerings wasn't just about content—it was about the heart behind the sacrifice. God accepted Abel’s offering, but rejected Cain's. This rejection sparked jealousy, anger, and ultimately, a tragic act of violence.

Explore how the actions of these brothers represent two contrasting ways to approach God: by following His prescribed way or by demanding to do things our own way. Stephen unpacks the lessons we can draw from Cain’s defiance, Abel’s faith, and the dangerous pull of envy. This episode challenges listeners to examine their own approach to worship and consider whether they are following God’s way or making up their own rules. Listen now to discover how the key to approaching God is not through human effort, but through faith in the sacrifice that points to Jesus Christ.

What kind of legacy are you leaving? In this episode, Stephen Davey traces the origins of humanity’s first family tree—one branch descending from Cain, who defied God, and the other from Seth, who sought after Him. These two branches represent the choices each of us makes today: to follow our own desires, or to seek the Lord's presence and plan. Discover how the consequences of rebellion shaped Cain’s descendants into a line of defiance and heartbreak. In contrast, learn how the godly influence of Seth led to the formation of a community that began to worship the Lord. This episode also takes a closer look at Enoch, who walked so closely with God that he was taken directly into His presence, and Methuselah, whose incredibly long life reflected God’s patience before His judgment arrived. These stories still echo today, reminding us that God is both merciful and just, and that His invitation to be part of His family still stands. Listen now to see how the choices made at humanity's beginning can guide you in deciding what branch of God’s family you want to belong to.

How would you react if God called you to be the only light in a dark and corrupted world? In this episode, Stephen Davey dives into the remarkable story of Noah, who stood firm in his faith when the world around him was filled with violence and wickedness. Genesis 6 paints a picture of humanity so corrupted by sin that God decides to send a flood to cleanse the earth. Yet Noah stands out—he walks with God and remains pure while surrounded by immorality. As Stephen unpacks Noah's obedience, even when God's instructions seemed impossible or confusing, you'll be challenged to think about your own life. How can you be a light for God, even when it feels like no one else is watching? Listen in for a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the world may seem, faithful obedience matters to God, and one life can make all the difference.

Have you ever wondered if the story of Noah’s Ark could actually be true? Why do cultures from all over the world have similar flood legends? In this episode, Stephen Davey explores Genesis 6 to show how Noah's Ark was more than just a wooden boat—it was part of God's miraculous plan of redemption. You’ll learn about the precise blueprints God provided to Noah, and how He gathered animals to the ark, two by two. Stephen also unpacks how Noah’s Ark points us to God’s rescue plan for all humanity through Jesus Christ. If you’re curious about the truth behind this ancient story or want to understand the deeper symbolism of God’s salvation plan, this episode is for you. Find out how this incredible story from the past has life-changing implications for your future.

Did the flood of Noah's time truly cover the whole earth, or was it just a local disaster? In this episode, Stephen Davey examines the biblical account of the global flood described in Genesis 7–8. You’ll hear about Noah's obedience, his relentless warnings to his generation, and the miraculous way God gathered the animals into the ark. The narrative reveals a catastrophic worldwide event—mountains submerged, all life outside the ark perishing, and water covering even the highest peaks. Stephen also explains why the flood had to be global, how the Bible supports this claim, and what it means for you today. Discover how Noah’s story isn’t just about judgment—it’s about God's mercy and a picture of future salvation. If you want to understand the significance of Noah’s Ark and how it connects to God’s promise of future judgment, this episode will give you insights and hope. Tune in to find refuge in God’s grace and prepare for what lies ahead.

Why did God choose a rainbow to symbolize His covenant with humanity? After the global flood in Genesis, God made profound promises—not only about water, but about the entire world. In this episode, Stephen Davey explores these life-changing promises that continue to offer hope and stability in today’s unpredictable world. Learn why the rainbow is more than just a beautiful sight in the sky; it’s a reminder of God’s commitment to preserving the earth until His appointed time. You'll also hear about the changes to the earth's climate, animal behavior, and the implications for how we live. Does climate change or dwindling resources spell the end for our planet? God’s word offers comfort and clarity. Join this episode to find out how God’s care for His creation is still in effect and how His promises are a beacon for humanity. Listen today to be reminded of the hope we have in His unchanging nature.

Have you ever wondered why Noah cursed Canaan instead of his son Ham after the incident involving Noah’s drunkenness? This story has been widely misunderstood and used to justify harmful ideologies over centuries. In this episode, Stephen Davey sheds light on what really happened after the flood. Noah’s lapse in judgment led to a profound prophecy about the future of his family, affecting generations to come. You'll discover the truth behind the curse on Canaan and how it played out in Israel's history. We’ll also explore humanity’s shared ancestry and understand why, according to God’s Word, there’s truly only one human race, despite our diverse appearances and backgrounds. Find out what these ancient events mean for you today and how God views every person with equal love and value. Tune in to understand the heart of God and the truth about our shared identity as His creation.

How did humanity go from one language to thousands of distinct tongues spoken across the world today? The story begins in Genesis 11 with a rebellious act of defiance against God’s command. Led by Nimrod, humanity attempted to centralize power and make a name for themselves, building the infamous Tower of Babel. This tower wasn’t just an architectural marvel; it represented humanity’s first steps toward idolizing the stars and the creation of astrology. But God had a different vision for the earth—He wanted people to spread, not gather in rebellion. In this episode, Stephen Davey unpacks the powerful moment when God intervened to confuse their language, effectively scattering people across the globe. Discover how this ancient story set the stage for the world’s diversity today and why it’s still relevant. You'll also hear about God’s future promise: a day when all languages will unite in praise to Him. Dive into this foundational story of pride, dispersion, and God's ultimate plan to reunite humanity under His reign.

What does it mean to truly live by faith? The story of Abraham, introduced in Genesis 11-14, provides a powerful example. Called by God to leave everything familiar, Abraham began a journey that would make him the father of nations. But his story wasn’t just about blessings—it was about struggles, mistakes, and learning to trust God in uncertainty. From the moment God called him to leave his homeland to his travels through Canaan, Egypt, and back, Abraham’s journey was full of ups and downs. In this episode, Stephen Davey reveals how God’s promises to promote, protect, and guide Abraham shaped the course of his life and the future of humanity. You’ll also learn how Abraham’s willingness to rescue his nephew Lot and his encounter with the mysterious Melchizedek deepened his faith. Most importantly, see how Abraham’s story can encourage you to follow God, even when the path is unclear. Tune in to explore how God’s faithfulness to Abraham is still relevant and powerful for you today.

Have you ever felt like your faith wasn’t enough? In Genesis 15-17, Abraham is in his eighties, still waiting on God’s promise of a son. His faith is slipping, and his wife Sarah decides they need a backup plan. But God's covenant isn’t dependent on human effort or perfect belief—it rests on His grace alone. In this episode, Stephen Davey explores how God reassures Abraham, counts his faith as righteousness, and even changes his name to reflect His unbreakable promises. You’ll also hear about the consequences of Abraham and Sarah taking matters into their own hands, resulting in the birth of Ishmael. But despite their mistakes, God shows that His promises are unstoppable. If you need a reminder that God’s faithfulness holds strong, even when your faith feels weak, this episode is for you. Dive into the story of Abraham, Sarah, and the God who keeps every promise He makes.

Why did God destroy Sodom and Gomorrah? Genesis 18 and 19 present one of the Bible’s most challenging stories, revealing God as both just and gracious. This episode takes you into the heart of God’s character—His holiness and His mercy. As Abraham interacts with the Lord, we see His patient desire for people to repent. But when the people of Sodom refuse, God’s judgment becomes inevitable. Lot's choices and the resulting tragic consequences for his family offer important lessons on resisting or surrendering to sin. Yet even here, the story isn’t just about judgment. God's grace is revealed, showing a way out for those who repent. If you’re wondering about God's balance of love and justice, or if you’ve ever struggled to reconcile divine judgment with compassion, this episode will help. Listen in for a deeper understanding of why this ancient story still matters for us today.

How does God remain faithful when people falter? In this episode, you’ll see Abraham face challenges that threaten God’s promise of a son. Even in moments of weakness and fear, God steps in to protect Abraham and Sarah. Then, the long-awaited moment arrives: Isaac is born, the miracle child they’ve waited decades for. But joy is quickly followed by challenges as tensions arise between Isaac and his half-brother, Ishmael. You’ll see how God’s promises unfold despite human failings. If you’ve ever struggled with keeping faith or wondered if God’s promises are truly dependable, this episode will encourage you. You’ll learn how God’s plans move forward, no matter how much human doubt and fear try to interfere. This episode reveals God’s relentless grace and His unchanging promises, even in the wilderness moments of life. Listen in and find comfort in God’s faithfulness today.

What does Abraham’s ultimate test of faith teach you about God’s promises? In this episode, you’ll journey to Mount Moriah, where Abraham faced a heartbreaking command: sacrifice his son, Isaac. How did Abraham obey without hesitation? What does this moment reveal about God’s plan for redemption? You’ll see how this story foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who would become the ultimate sacrifice for sin. This episode also highlights Isaac’s remarkable trust and the profound picture of God’s grace as He provides a substitute sacrifice. Whether you’re wrestling with faith, waiting on God’s promises, or seeking to understand the Bible’s message, this episode offers life-changing insights. Listen now to deepen your faith in God’s unchanging Word and His perfect plan for salvation.

Have you ever wondered how to follow God’s will when life feels uncertain? In this episode, you’ll explore a story of faith, obedience, and God’s providence as Abraham’s servant embarks on a journey to find a bride for Isaac. Learn how God’s guidance led him to Rebekah, the perfect choice, at the perfect time. Discover how tools like faith, prayer, worship, and obedience can help you trust God’s plan in your own life. Whether you’re waiting on answers, seeking direction, or navigating challenges, this episode provides timeless principles to build your faith and encourage your heart. Listen now to see how God’s providence is always at work behind the scenes.

Do your plans ever collide with God’s promises? The story of Jacob and Esau is a vivid reminder of what happens when people try to take matters into their own hands. Despite God’s revealed plan, Isaac resists, Rebekah manipulates, Jacob deceives, and Esau disregards spiritual priorities. Their choices lead to division and sorrow, but God’s promises never fail. This episode unpacks how favoritism, impatience, and disobedience impact relationships and faith. Learn how to recognize these pitfalls in your life and discover the peace that comes from trusting God’s perfect timing. Whether you’re waiting on answers or navigating family challenges, this lesson provides biblical insight and practical encouragement for walking in faith.

We can rejoice in God’s promises, knowing He is always faithful. But this doesn’t keep us from suffering the consequences of our own sinful actions. Jacob was uniquely blessed by God, but he and his family suffered needlessly because of his selfish decisions.

The most significant changes in our lives often take place gradually over time. God works with us and in us to bring us to a greater awareness of His presence and the preeminent place He should hold in our lives. This is the testimony of Jacob, the man called Israel.

A life of faith is not a life of comfort. Our faith will be severely tested. Sins from our past can have lingering consequences. We are not spared tragedy and loss. Yet Jacob’s experiences remind us that it is walking by faith that gives us a God-honoring legacy.

Temptation takes many forms and is never far from us. Sadly, we can unwittingly create temptations for others by our own unwise actions. Jacob failed to understand that favoritism breeds jealousy, and jealousy leads to a host of other sins.

Bad things happen to godly people. However, we recognize that God is still at work in our lives even as we suffer. Like Joseph, we can’t always see the end results when our lives are in turmoil, but we can trust that God is preparing us in some unique ways to serve Him.

Our lives take unexpected turns. Yet no matter what we face, we can trust the Lord and make choices that honor Him, knowing that in His time, He will honor our faithfulness to Him. This is the lesson from Joseph’s experiences in Genesis 40–41.

Sometimes our conscience needs to be prodded and refreshed so that we not only feel guilt but act upon it. Wisely, Joseph did not attack the brothers who had mistreated him but tested them so they would both acknowledge and repent of their sin.

Neither Jacob nor his sons could have anticipated what God had in store for them as they encountered multiple hardships—famine, loss, accusations, and threats. God’s greatest work in us, however, often takes place in our times of greatest distress.

The joyful reunion of Joseph with both his brothers and his father reminds us of the power of confession and forgiveness. It also reminds us that in His providence God often effects changes in people over many years and through many heartaches.

Joseph was mistreated, imprisoned, and forgotten, yet he remained faithful to God, and in the end, God honored him and used him greatly. His life illustrates that our role is to remain always faithful to God and allow Him to work in and through us according to His timing.

The last two chapters of Genesis remind us that God is always at work, providentially advancing His eternal plan. They also remind us that His plan involves His work in individual lives and experiences to promote love, forgiveness, faith, and faithfulness.

The Wisdom Journey study guides for the book of Genesis. 

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