An Appointment to Keep  – Greg Laurie Devotion – March 02, 2026

Biblical Context

The book of Genesis tells us about beginnings – the beginning of the world, humanity, and our relationship with God. Moses is often seen as the one who put these stories into writing, giving us a look at God’s early dealings with people. Our main verse comes from Genesis chapter 3, a critical turning point in human history, detailing the very first act of disobedience against God.

In these early chapters, we learn about Adam and Eve, the first two humans. They lived in a perfect garden, created by God Himself. They knew God in a way no one else could, a close and direct connection before sin entered the world. This close walk with God was a daily thing for them, not a rare event. Genesis paints a picture of a God who was present and involved, walking and talking with His creation in the cool of the evening.

Key Word Study

Our key scripture, Genesis 3:9, says, “Then the Lord God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’” The word “called” here comes from the Hebrew word *qara’* (קָרָא). This word means to call out, to summon, to cry, or to proclaim. It’s not just a general shout into the distance. It means a direct, personal, and intentional address. God wasn’t just wondering where Adam was; He was actively seeking him out, extending an invitation to connect, even in the midst of Adam’s hiding.

An Invitation to Walk Together

Over these next two weeks, we’re going to dive into the lives of some Old Testament characters. We’re going to find out that their experiences aren’t just old stories; they matter to us, and we can use them in our lives today. We’re starting right at the very beginning with Adam and Eve.

Adam and Eve had a special connection with God. They were the only ones who could say they knew Him “before.” Before what? Before they sinned and changed the path of human history forever. Before their wrongdoing created a gap between God and humanity, a gap that only the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ could bridge.

But before that fall, Adam and Eve shared a very close walk with God. In fact, they had a standing appointment with Him. Genesis 3:8 says, “When the cool evening breezes were blowing, the man and his wife heard the Lord God walking about in the garden” (nlt). Imagine that: God Himself strolled through the paradise He made. He visited with Adam and Eve. Just picture their eager waiting and excitement as they looked forward to God’s arrival every evening.

Then one day, Adam and Eve missed that appointment. They had disobeyed Him and eaten from the forbidden tree in the garden. Their shame and guilt kept them from their usual time with the Lord. So, God called out, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9 nlt). Even after their sin, God still sought them out. He still wanted to connect.

I can’t help but wonder if the Lord would say something similar to people today. “Where are you? I’ve been looking for you. I want to speak to you. I want you to walk with Me, and I want to walk with you.” It’s an invitation that hasn’t changed.

The Christian Walk: A Shared Purpose

The Christian life is often called a “walk”—and for good reason. Amos 3:3 says, “Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?” (nlt). The idea here is that when two people walk together, they share a common purpose, a connection, a commitment to one another. You’ve got to keep an appointment to walk with someone.

So, when God walks with us, He’s keeping an appointment. He wants to meet with us on a regular basis. He’s always there, always ready. The real question is: How often do we keep that appointment?

How many times each day does God make Himself available to speak to us, only to be shut out of our appointment book? Imagine Him saying, “I’ve wanted to talk to you for a long time, but you’re too busy. You won’t make time for Me. You won’t open the Word. You rarely pray. And when you do, it’s one-sided. You won’t listen to Me. You have an appointment with Me. Why don’t you keep it?”

Honestly, there isn’t a good answer to that question. Whatever weak excuses we might try to offer just don’t stand up when you think about the chance to spend one-on-one time with the all-knowing, all-powerful Creator of the universe. He loves us, He wants only the best for us, and He knows exactly how we might live that best life.

Is there any appointment worth keeping more than the one with Him? Think about it. How can you make sure you keep a regular appointment with God? It might mean setting aside a specific time, opening your Bible, or simply taking moments throughout your day to listen for His voice. Don’t let anything keep you from your daily walk with the One who made you and loves you most.