May 07, 2026 | Read online

Genesis 3 Still Affects Your Marriage

When people think I'm talking psychology, I'm actually talking theology

One of the most fascinating things about attachment theory to me is how closely it mirrors the story of Genesis.

Love Styles Part 5: Attachment Theory and the Bible (EP94)

In Genesis 2, Adam and Eve are described as “naked and unashamed.” They are fully known, fully loved, and fully safe. There is no fear. No hiding. No shame. No blame. They are securely connected to God and securely connected to each other.

Then Genesis 3 happens. (Listen HERE to the latest episode)

Sin enters the world and the very first emotional response is fear.

Adam says, “I was afraid, so I hid.”

That line explains far more about our relationships than we often realize.

Ever since Genesis 3, people have been hiding from each other. We hide behind anger, silence, perfectionism, independence, work, control, people-pleasing, and a whole list of outlets. We desperately want connection while simultaneously protecting ourselves from being hurt.

That is why attachment theory matters so much.

Attachment theory simply helps explain psychologically what Scripture already revealed spiritually. The fall did not just affect our standing before God. It affected the way we experience love, trust, safety, vulnerability, and connection.

Some of us become anxious and cling tightly because we fear abandonment. Some become avoidant and emotionally distant because closeness feels overwhelming. Others bounce between both. Underneath all of it is the same reality: fear entered the world and relationships have struggled ever since.

But Genesis 3 is not the end of the story.

When things feel calm in your life/relationship, do you:

Feel peaceful and grateful

Worry about when the trouble will come

Feel bored

Feel uneasy

One of my favorite moments in Scripture is what God does next. Adam and Eve hide, yet God pursues them. He calls out, “Where are you?” He covers their shame. He moves toward them in the middle of their fear.

That is secure love. (Buy the book HERE)

Jesus continues that same pattern throughout the Gospels. He remains emotionally available. He tells the truth. He shows compassion. He is connected without being controlling. Strong without being harsh. Vulnerable without fear.

The gospel is not only about forgiveness someday. It is about transformation today. We can learn healthier ways to connect. We can become more secure. We can grow beyond old patterns that have shaped us for years.

This week on Change the Odds, I unpack how attachment theory connects directly to Genesis 2 and 3 and why understanding this can completely change the way you view your marriage, parenting, friendships, and even your relationship with God.

View more on Instagram

Want to explore more? Try one of these two prompts on LoveStyles.AI:

“What fears tend to show up underneath my reactions in relationships?”

“How does Genesis 3 help explain my relationship patterns today?”

You can listen to the episode here and begin exploring your own Love Style.

Marriage and family were never meant to be a game of chance. You really can change your odds.

Blessings,

Kevin

P.s. Did you miss last weeks episode? Watch HERE:

Love Styles Part 4: Earned (learned) Security (EP93)

You are receiving the Change The Odds Newsletter because you have subscribed either through kevinathompson.com; changetheodds.com, through attending a conference with Kevin, or by taking the Friends, Partners & Lovers Marriage Assessment.

Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here

1515 Ridgeview Cir
Auburn, CA 95603, United States

Search This Blog

listserve