January 9

January 9

Noah & the Flood -- Noah's faith & deliverance from the flood

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: Genesis 6

Reading 2: Genesis 7

Reading 3: Hebrews 11:7

Our reading plan connects all the key stories of the Bible into One Story - God's story. Today's story is one that most people know about (even through distorted Hollywood depictions). And as we read, we will see that this is God's story.

Within a few generations, the consequences of sin and disobedience have become so great that God is sorry He ever made humanity. Think how sad it would be if you created a beautiful painting or sculpture, perfect in every way, but it was then vandalized and ruined. Now multiply that feeling to imagine how God felt!

In the midst of all this corruption and disobedience, Noah stands out as the only man who would obey God.

Reading 3 tells us: "It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith, Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith."

Righteousness (relationship with God) comes by faith. It is a question first of what we believe. Then comes the action that shows the faith to be active, real, and able to bring righteousness.

Today, what do you believe, and what will you do as a result? In line with God's Word, faith, and action bring you into righteousness, which we experience as relationship with God.

Have a great day!

Mark.