In order to function as we were designed by our Creator, we are to receive the life (presence) of God in our spirit. Without this imperative element, we are like an animal without instinct.
We are actually operating on a subhuman level until, by the grace of God, we realize we need a Savior. A Savior not only to save us from our sins, but to save us from ourselves. For we cannot even trust our desire to do good, as our heart is corrupted by selfish motives – to “look” good – to appear more righteous than others.
God never intended for us to function without Him. His intention was for us to bear His image. We were to carry out his intentions by His Spirit operating in union with our spirit.
But we turned away from this “Tree of Life” He offered and instead turned to the enemy of God, to obey him. Instead of receiving the nature of God as intended, we took upon us the selfish nature of the enemy.
This nature of the enemy is displayed in us by our deep doubt and distrust of God – a deep fear that God will rob us of our freedom. Paralyzed by doubt, fear, and distrust, we settle for any distraction that will keep us from facing the reality of our situation: work, play, religion – whatever will placate our guilty conscience and keep us functioning apart from God.