In our ongoing series exploring the valuable lessons we can learn from the life of Noah. His unwavering trust in God’s guidance and his diligent efforts in constructing the ark offer us valuable insights into the concept of diligent preparation. As we navigate the journey of life, we must remember that God is our ultimate provider, and our role is to place our trust in His unwavering faithfulness. It all begins with a foundation of trust, followed by a receptive ear to God’s guidance and a commitment to obey His Word.
- Prepare Diligently for the Future
The Bible teaches us in Proverbs 6:6 to consider the ways of the ant and be wise. While God guides our future, and we are called to trust Him with our lives (as stated in Jeremiah 29:11 and Proverbs 3:5-6), we also have a responsibility to take action. Noah demonstrated the importance of hard work and future preparation. He willingly accepted the task of constructing the ark, even though he may not have fully comprehended its purpose. Throughout this endeavor, he remained steadfast in his trust in God.
Despite facing scoffers and doubters, Noah continued to listen and obey God’s voice. God could have easily provided him with the ark and instructed him to board, but instead, He commanded Noah to build it from the ground up – a process that spanned over 120 years. Noah tirelessly worked on this monumental project, much like a diligent ant, until its completion.
When we maintain a close connection with God, He provides us with guidance on preparing for events that may not be fully clear to us at the time. Just as it had not started raining when Noah began building the ark, he trusted God with the future. As we undertake our own preparations in life, we should bear in mind that God will provide for our needs, and our role is to rely on His faithful provision. It all begins with trusting God, listening to His guidance, and obeying His Word in an act of submission.
- Embrace Patience
Our journey with Noah continues, unveiling another essential lesson: the virtue of patience. Noah’s remarkable patience shone through as he persevered in building an ark amidst a society that hadn’t experienced rain for years. To add to the challenge, it took well over two months for the floodwaters to recede after the deluge, making life aboard the ark an uncomfortable, smelly, and turbulent experience.
The takeaway from Noah’s story is clear: patience is not just a commendable quality but an indispensable one for believers. It’s a testament to God’s perfect timing. We’re reminded that His promises will inevitably be fulfilled, and we must exercise patience during the waiting periods in our lives. Today, as we await the promised return of Jesus, let us follow Noah’s example by diligently working and living out our faith while patiently holding onto the hope that God’s timing is always impeccable.
- Find Shelter in Life’s Storms
In the words of Jesus from John 16:33, we find both reassurance and a vital reminder. He encourages us with the promise of peace within Him while simultaneously forewarning His followers about the inherent trials and tribulations of life. The path of a believer is not immune to adversity; it may lead to challenges and even persecution.
Life’s storms, whether they manifest as natural disasters or personal trials, often leave us yearning for security and stability. I vividly recall evacuating our home during Hurricane Harvey, navigating flooded roads while anxiety coursed through us. Safety was paramount. Miraculously, God guided us through that tumultuous period and ensured our safety.
In times of life’s tempests, it’s crucial to recognize that God will never place us in a perilous situation without offering a path to safety. If He leads us, He will guide us. The world is undeniably beset with strife and suffering today, but as we navigate personal trials and bear witness to global tragedies, we must diligently seek Him in prayer and devotion, allowing Him to open doors that provide refuge, compassion, and grace.
- Clinging to God’s Promises
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
The Bible is a treasury of promises bestowed upon us by God. The narrative of Noah conveys the pledge that the earth will never be inundated again, providing a degree of reassurance. However, our world remains in turmoil and disarray, primarily due to our sinful choices. It’s vital to acknowledge that this world is inherently uncomfortable because it isn’t our ultimate destination.
In John 14:1-3, we are encouraged not to be disheartened by the difficulties of this world. As members of God’s family, we are assured that Jesus will return to take us “home.” This is the hope we must cling to, especially during the unsettling and uncertain times in which we live.
We must not miss the boat, metaphorically speaking, and should adopt a mindset imbued with hope and promise. With God, we find safety, protection, and salvation. There is also the radiant symbol of a rainbow, a testament to His love. Revelation 4:3 even depicts God seated on His throne, encircled by a rainbow. What a breathtaking sight that must be!
What is God prompting you to do today? Is He directing you to build an ark and make preparations? Is He urging you to place your trust in Him amidst the current tempest? Is He calling you to exercise patience?
While we may find ourselves in circumstances reminiscent of Noah’s time, we serve a steadfast God who encourages us to maintain unwavering hope in His numerous promises. Therefore, let us live as Noah did – faithful, obedient, patient, and hopeful!