How to stay innocent? 

The first man was innocent, but his innocence failed to keep him from sin. He was easily persuaded to go against God. His knowledge was eroded by seduction.

He knew right from wrong because God established it in the very beginning. What to eat and what not to. What causes death, and what gives life? 

But his innocence did not protect him from the manipulation of Satan. 

Paul says to be NOT children in understanding. He reminds us how Eve's simplicity gave room for disobedience that led to sin. (2 Corinthians 11:3)

Eve had a curiosity that overcame her immature knowledge. Dinah followed her curiosity and fell into a terrible situation. Innocence without understanding will lead to manifold issues.

WHAT IS UNDERSTANDING? 

Departing from evil (Job 28:28). Adam knew eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil was wrong. But his knowledge wasn't enough to withstand the knowledge and subtlety of Satan. 

HOW TO GET UNDERSTANDING?

The fear of God, the realisation of His love and power brings understanding. Seek the knowledge of God more than any treasure on earth. When we seek God's face i.e. His character, we learn more about Him and the beauty of His deliverance in our lives. 

Jesus grew over time (Luke 2:47, 52). His childhood and youth remained invested in growing in the knowledge of God. At 30, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness journey to be tested and tried till the end. Be curious like Jesus to know God.

Knowing God more keeps us innocent and guarded from evil. The word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit guides our walk daily as we surrender. 

The Spirit-led life is a purity-filled life fuelled by unfeigned faith. True innocence is found only in Christ. Dig in, stay innocent from the world and its pleasures, and learn from Jesus. 

Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.