(Genesis 3:6) “When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her and he ate.”
“Beware lest you lose the substance by grasping at the shadow.” Aesop 550 B.C.
Adam and Eve had a wonderful relationship with God and with each other. However, because of the selfishness of Eve, and Adam as well, their relationship with God was hindered. God could no longer trust mankind and therefore he was driven from the Garden of Eden.
Selfishness is behind every sin; it is because of our desires that we are willing to risk precious relationships with individuals that we love. Once our relationship becomes damaged by our selfishness, lack of trust becomes evident. It does not mean that these broken relationships cannot be mended; however, it requires a lot of forgiveness and grace on the innocent party and on the guilty party (forgiveness of self is a hard thing to do).
God was willing to forgive Adam and Eve and He even provided for them. His love was big enough for both to still enjoy a relationship with Him.
How big is our love? Can it withstand the selfishness of others?