The Lord then said to Noah, “Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation.
Genesis 7:1 NIV
The world around Noah was a tumultuous place, steeped in violence and corruption. God observed the profound brokenness of humanity, where every inclination of their hearts was evil continually. Consequently, a deep sorrow settled upon the Creator’s heart. Yet, amidst such widespread depravity, one man stood out: Noah. This ancient narrative offers crucial lessons for us today regarding how to diligently follow God’s plan for our own lives. It shows how divine purpose unfolds through faithful obedience, even in challenging times.
This command in Genesis 7:1 did not emerge from a vacuum. Indeed, God had previously witnessed humanity’s profound corruption. The earth was filled with violence, and all people had corrupted their ways before Him. This grave situation prompted God to declare His intention to cleanse the earth, destroying humanity and all life because of their profound wickedness.
Following God’s Plan with Diligence
Before judgment arrived, God gave Noah precise instructions for building the ark. These were not vague suggestions, but detailed blueprints for an enormous vessel. Genesis chapter 6, verse 22 emphatically states, “Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” Noah simply acted; he did not question God’s precise commands.
Indeed, it was only after Noah’s complete and meticulous obedience to these intricate construction details that God then issued the command in chapter 7, verse 1, for him to enter the ark. This sequence therefore highlights God’s invitation to Noah into an active partnership, demonstrating how to diligently follow God’s plan.
Grace, Obedience, and God’s Partnership
God’s cleansing of the earth was not absolute destruction but an act of redeeming grace. He carefully preserved all living creatures, both humans and animals, each according to its kind, ensuring life continued. God observed Noah’s response to His instructions, effectively testing his diligence and obedience to every single detail.
The Lord acknowledged Noah’s faithfulness, noting that he had done everything commanded. Noah, therefore, did not take God’s grace for granted; his obedience was a clear testament to his unwavering faithfulness. God deliberately qualified Noah, ensuring he passed a second examination, before instructing him to enter the ark, fulfilling His divine plan and promise.
Your Invitation to Diligent Following
This divine pattern reflects God’s expectation for every believer today. Election by grace is not the final destination; instead, it serves as an entry point into a deeper relationship. It signifies an invitation into an active, eternal partnership with God Himself.
Had Noah become proud, puffed up, or complacent during the ark’s construction, perhaps he would have failed to follow God’s instruction and been disqualified from the privilege revealed in Genesis chapter 7. His journey therefore reminds us to avoid spiritual laziness. Noah’s example serves as an invitation for us to follow God diligently, wholeheartedly, and without wavering.
God’s election for a particular purpose is never an endpoint but an ongoing invitation to journey further with Him. There is always more that God expects, and He calls believers not to disappoint Him through our actions. Let us embrace this call to active discipleship, mirroring Noah’s unwavering commitment to God’s precise commands.
Living It Out
- Reflect on your current obedience: Consider one specific area where God has given you clear instructions in your life.
- Act with diligence: Take a concrete step towards complete and meticulous obedience in that identified area this week.
- Trust God’s partnership: Remember that your faithful actions are an essential part of His greater redemptive plan unfolding today.