PERSEVERING IN WALKING IN THE WAYS OF GOD

Hebrews 11:7 says, "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." When the world was disregarding God, Noah stayed with his faith in God. Jesus described the people's activities during Noah's time. Jesus said, "In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn't realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man (Jesus) comes" (Matthew 24:38-39). Although Noah didn't understand what God was asking him to do to build a large boat, nor had he ever seen a flood before, he obeyed God; as a result, he saved his family from the flood. The rest of the people continued their daily chores as if nothing was going to happen to them. What happened in Noah's time is a warning to us because when Jesus comes back a second time, He will bring judgment to this world. 

Those who believe in Jesus will be saved from the judgment and wrath of God. Those who put their faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior will be like Noah and his family, saved from God's judgment and wrath. No one knows when Jesus will come back. 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 says, "For you know quite well that the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, 'Everything is peaceful and secure,' then disaster will fall on them as suddenly as a pregnant woman's labor pains begin. And there will be no escape." Jesus said, "So you, too, must keep watch! For you don't know what day your Lord is coming" (Matthew 4:42). We must persevere in our walk with God, even though the world is against us or living in an ungodly manner. We must not live according to the sinful attitude and ways of this world. Never do ungodly things even though ungodliness becomes normal. Never say, "Everybody is doing it, so I can do it too." But say, "I will never do what they do because it is not God's way." Let us please God in simple situations so that when we are confronted with bigger situations, we can remain strong in following God's ways. 

Every godly step that we take matters in our faith in God, no matter how simple it is. Our obedience to God is a result of our faith in God, and it starts in our willingness to walk in the ways of God even though people around us are doing the opposite. 

Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) What can I learn from Noah's life? Am I following God in my current situations, or am I disobeying God just as the rest of the world does? Why is it important for me to persevere in walking in God's ways?

Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.

Prayer:

Dear Father in Heaven, please help me to obey you in every situation that I am in. Please protect my heart from willful sin. When people around me are doing things that are not acceptable to you, please help me to stay strong in my faith and do the right thing. In your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.