(Genesis 6:14–7:5)

“Church, today we continue our journey through the story of Noah. Yesterday, we saw how humanity’s wickedness grieved the heart of God, yet He extended grace to Noah, a man who walked faithfully with Him. Today, we will focus on Noah’s obedience—faith in action—and the lessons it teaches us about trusting God and preparing for the future.”

God’s Specific Instructions to Build the Ark

In Genesis 6:14, God begins to give Noah detailed instructions: ‘Make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out.’ God does not leave Noah guessing. He provides exact measurements, materials, and even the purpose of the ark—to preserve life through the coming flood.

Church, think about this. Noah has likely never seen rain like what God described, let alone a flood that would cover the earth. And yet, God calls him to build a massive ark, a monumental task requiring years of labor and unwavering faith.

Noah’s Immediate Obedience

Now, let’s turn to Genesis 6:22: ‘Noah did everything just as God commanded him.’ Let those words sink in. Noah didn’t argue. He didn’t delay. He didn’t ask for a clearer sign. He obeyed.

Imagine the ridicule he must have faced from his neighbors, building an enormous boat in the middle of dry land. Imagine the doubts that could have crept in during the long years of construction. But Noah’s faith wasn’t just belief—it was obedience in action. His trust in God was shown through his willingness to follow, step by step, even when the path was unclear.

Teachings and Lessons

This part of Noah’s story teaches us two important truths:

First, faith in action means trusting God enough to obey Him. It’s easy to say we trust God, but true faith requires movement. It requires stepping out, often into the unknown, with confidence that God’s plan is better than our understanding.

Second, it teaches us the value of preparation and foresight. Noah didn’t wait until the rain started to build the ark. He acted on God’s instructions, knowing that obedience today prepares us for the challenges of tomorrow.

Church, God still calls us to build “arks” in our lives—things we don’t fully understand but that He knows are necessary for our protection, growth, and purpose.

Reflection

Let me ask you:

• How does your obedience to God demonstrate your trust in Him?

• In what areas of your life is God calling you to prepare right now?

Maybe it’s in your family—building a foundation of faith and love to weather future storms.

Maybe it’s in your finances—learning stewardship and discipline so you can bless others.

Maybe it’s in your spiritual life—deepening your prayer and study of God’s Word to sustain you in difficult times.

Whatever it is, remember this: God’s instructions are never without purpose. Obedience to Him is not just an act of faith—it is a pathway to His blessing and protection.

Closing Encouragement

As we close today, I want to leave you with this thought: Noah didn’t just trust God; he showed that trust through his actions. And because of his obedience, God used him to save his family and preserve the future of humanity.

Church, what might God do through your obedience today? How might He use your willingness to follow Him to bless others and fulfill His purpose?

Let us be a people who don’t just say we trust God but who show it through our actions. Like Noah, let us build our “arks” with faith and confidence in the One who holds our future. Amen.