Good Gold/Bad Gold?

  The entire rhythm of life changes pretty drastically in Istanbul for the summer months of July and August; this, of course, effects not only our individual lives but also our gathering as Christ-followers. When most of our fellowship that is still here gathered yesterday, we discussed the creation of the world.  We were again struck by the awesome weight and privilege of being made in God's image; how would it change our lives if we lived out the truth that we are (redeemed) image-bearers - it would destroy depression, pride and a multitude of other sins.

  But, we were also impacted by the goodness of God's nurture for His people - seven times declaring that He had made a good world in chapter 1, then, making sure that Adam had the perfect companion because it was 'not good' for him to be alone.  In between these points, two aspects of God's overflowing provision for His people are mentioned: God had every kind of beautiful tree with good fruit grow in the Garden of Eden, and in verses 11-12 while describing the area's geography,

"...Havilah, where there is gold. And the gold of that land is good..." 

 I haven't heard of gold that humans didn't think was good, but this gold was good.  The point of this odd little statement seems to be highlighting the magnificence of God's provision, the wonder of what He gave (and gives) to His people to care for, the greatness of His care for His own.  Just as the trees and the stars praise Him, gold also declares His goodness and glory to us.  May we have gracious understanding and response.