New Reminders: Choice

In 1952, John Steinbeck released one of his classic novels, East of Eden. In 1955, East of Eden hit the big screen starring James Dean as the lead as Cal Trask. The central theme of the book and movie is the personal struggle between good and evil–not just in the world but in the human heart. The title, East of Eden, is a reference to the region where Cain went after killing his brother Abel (Genesis 4:16). East of Eden is a metaphor and a reality of life for us all as sin has separated us from God and created turmoil within every culture and every heart. In his novel, Steinbeck referenced the concept of “Timshel.” It’s a Hebrew word that means “Thou mayest.” It reflects the power to choose between a life of good or evil…to decide to follow God rather than the darkness of our own heart. East of Eden, John Steinbeck, 1952, p.301.

Steinbeck’s book focuses on family dynamics, love, acceptance, free will (Timshel), identity, and the profound impact of choice on the human condition. Key themes include the search for meaning, the search for acceptance, the battle against one's darker impulses and the power of having choices. When God decided to give us choices rather than treating us as puppets, He gave us the ability to decide for ourselves how to live. He did not create us to do bad things, and He does not expect us to be perfect, but for us to be able to know what is good, he allows us to fail to teach us to distinguish between good and evil. He challenges us to choose wisely and to do what is right, but he does not force us to act in specific ways. He acts more like a good parent by showing us the way but not making the choices for us. Like any good parent, or teacher of any kind, He allows us to learn by doing, first by imitating then by trying on our own, practicing and finally doing things right. He delights in our accomplishments and encourages us to continue doing good. A famous quote from Steinbeck’s book says, “Now that you know you don’t have to be perfect, you can be good.”

The Bible teaches that humans are created with the freedom to choose, but our choices can lead to serious life or death outcomes and are central to a relationship with God. He encourages us to seek His wisdom to help us make wise decisions, to trust Him to direct our paths and to understand that actions have consequences. Deuteronomy 30:19 put it this way to the Israelites: “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” Choosing life means seeking God's guidance, following His counsel, and taking responsibility for our own choices. Choosing a life in God leads to life eternal due to God’s saving grace through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.