> In the fabric of Christian virtues, obedience is a fundamental thread that demonstrates a believer’s commitment and trust in God. It is the act of listening to God’s voice and following His commands, even when faced with skepticism, doubt, or outright opposition. The story of Noah and the ark, as described in Genesis 6:9-22, is a remarkable testament to the virtue of obedience.
Noah’s Radical Obedience
Noah lived in a time when the earth was filled with violence and corruption. Amidst this moral decay, Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God. When God saw the extent of human wickedness, He decided to send a flood to cleanse the earth, sparing only Noah, his family, and a remnant of all living creatures.
God instructed Noah to build an ark, a massive vessel that would house his family and representatives of the animal kingdom. The dimensions and specifications for the ark were detailed: 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high, made of gopher wood and coated with pitch inside and out. The task was monumental, the specifics were intricate, and the reason for it— a flood that would cover the earth—was unprecedented.
Despite the improbability of the event, the magnitude of the task, and the inevitable mockery from his contemporaries, Noah obeyed God’s commands to the letter. He did not waver in his faith or question God’s instructions. Instead, he embarked on this daunting project, demonstrating his unwavering obedience and trust in God’s word.
The Essence of Obedience
Noah’s story teaches us that obedience to God is not contingent on our understanding or the approval of those around us. It is an act of faith, believing that God’s ways are higher than our ways and that His plans are always for our good, even when they seem challenging or illogical. Obedience may require us to step out of our comfort zones, confront our fears, or stand alone in our convictions, but it is always rewarded by God’s faithfulness and provision.
Obedience may require us to step out of our comfort zones, confront our fears, or stand alone in our convictions, but it is always rewarded by God’s faithfulness and provision.
Reflecting on Our Own Obedience
Noah’s example challenges us to examine our own lives and our obedience to God. Are there areas where we are resisting God’s instructions because they seem difficult or unreasonable? Are we more concerned about the opinions of others than about following God’s commands? Are we willing to trust and obey God, even when His plans do not align with our own?
A Challenge to Grow
This week, let us challenge ourselves to take a step of obedience in an area where we have been hesitant or resistant. It could be a call to mend a relationship, share our faith, serve in a new capacity, or simply spend more time in prayer and reading God’s Word. Let’s ask God to help us obey Him fully, trusting that He will provide the strength and resources we need.
A Prayer for Obedience
Dear Lord,
You are a God who speaks, guiding and directing our steps. We thank You for the example of Noah, who obeyed Your commands without hesitation or compromise. Forgive us for the times we have been disobedient or reluctant to follow Your instructions. Help us to trust You completely, knowing that Your plans are perfect and Your ways are higher than ours. Give us the courage to obey You, even when it’s hard, and the faith to believe that You will work all things for our good.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
As we strive to grow in obedience, let’s remember that it is not about achieving perfection but about developing a heart that is willing to listen and respond to God’s voice, no matter the cost.
How Does this Apply to You?
To what degree have you been obedient to God, even when His plans do not align with your own? Have you been resistant or hesitant to obey Him because His instructions seem difficult or unreasonable? There is nothing impossible with God, and Jesus said He will never leave us nor forsake us. Personally speaking, I would rather fail in doing something I believe God is calling me to do than not doing it for fear of failure. Will you commit to take up the challenge above and obey Him because of your love for Him? If so, leave us a note in the box below.
