Joel M Bradshaw

18Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”–Genesis 2

It is tempting to think of this from a relationship standpoint. As if a single man is not good. That’s not the point here. The word ‘good’ had been used by God in final ways after each day of creation. As if he was saying that purposes will now be accomplished and therefore were good. Adam was in a category unlike any other created thing. He couldn’t fully accomplish his intended purpose without a helper uniquely fit for him.

So this is the first ‘problem’. Genesis 1 was an entire chapter of God proclaiming good and now we had a not good. The Hebrew word for ‘helper’ was later used by King David in Psalm 54.

4Behold, God is my helper; the Lord is the upholder of my life.

So if there are any women taking umbrage that Eve would be considered Adam’s helper, just remember that this word also describes God. I can think of no greater honor than being described with a word that also describes God!

The first problem was solved by God. Adam had purpose given to him by God to work and name things (the first biologist!), but that wasn’t good. He needed a helper to truly bring fulfillment. My friends, see your problems as ultimately solved by God. Cast your anxieties upon him. Trust him and depend upon him. Seek guidance from the Bible. God was enough for Adam until God decided otherwise. And Adam rejoiced at God’s good solution to the first problem.–JMB