Did Everything God Commanded
Sometimes, the simplest statements contain the most powerful truths. In Genesis 6, the Bible describes the corrupt nature of the world and the impending judgment due to widespread evil and wickedness. However, it also highlights Noah as a man of faith amid a wicked generation. The Lord approached Noah and entrusted him with a task to ensure his survival during the coming global punishment and to fulfill God’s promise. At the end of Genesis 6, a brief yet impactful statement about Noah’s faith challenges us today to obey and fulfill everything the Lord commands.
Genesis 6:22 (CSB)
And Noah did this. He did everything that God had commanded him.
FAITH IS WHOLEHEARTED OBEDIENCE, NOT SELECTIVE COMPLIANCE
Noah obeyed all that God commanded him without picking and choosing. Instead of only practicing faithfulness in parts he felt were important, Noah trusted and followed God's guidance completely. He avoided selective compliance, which is simply disobedience, by choosing which commandments to follow—an act that effectively tries to play God. The Bible reminds us that, like Noah, we are called to obey all of God's commands, not just the ones we prefer. Reflect on which areas of your life require you to abandon selective compliance and embrace wholehearted obedience.
FAITH IS TRUSTING GOD WITHOUT FULL UNDERSTANDING
Noah did not fully grasp the commands and instructions from the Lord. He probably had never seen rain before, as the Bible describes water coming from the earth beforehand. The idea of a global flood would have been unfamiliar, and building a boat on dry land to gather animals might have seemed crazy. Nonetheless, Noah trusted the Lord completely, even in the face of the unknown, and followed every step of God’s guidance. Similarly, we won't understand every detail of God’s plan. We shouldn't hesitate in obedience because of the unknown but instead let our faith lead us to trust and obey God fully, even when we don't understand. Reflect on how you can deepen your faith and trust in the Lord during times of uncertainty.
FAITH IS STEADFAST IN OBEDIENCE DESPITE OF OPPOSITION
The world surrounding Noah is described as corrupt and unfaithful. People act based on their own desires, beliefs, and wishes, living in sin and being plagued by it. This attitude conflicts with Noah’s faith and obedience. While Noah built the ark, others mocked and ridiculed him. However, their jeers did not stop Noah; instead, they became a symbol of his steadfast obedience. When we try to follow the Lord, we may also face mocking and opposition. Such challenges should not cause us to lose faith but should inspire us to stay committed. What actions can you take to transform opposition to your faith into a rallying cry for steadfastness?
FAITH BECOMES EVIDENT IN ACTION
Noah’s faith became clear as he diligently fulfilled God’s calling. It wasn't just lip service or feelings; it was shown through his faithful obedience and adherence to God's commands. Noah exemplified a faith that acts. In following the Lord and His guidance in our lives, we should aim to demonstrate our faith through actions, not just words. It's important to examine our lives to ensure that our faith is active, visible, and demonstrated by our deeds, rather than being mere words of affirmation.
Could this brief statement of faithfulness describe you? Are you consistently executing and fulfilling everything the Lord commands? Perhaps today is the perfect moment to commit to seeking the Lord and fully following His guidance with faith.
