Today, I’m joining Crystal Stine for Behind the Scenes. The picture above was taken during a cross country road trip that we took over the summer. As you read further, you will know what I was thinking when I snapped the picture…
Recently, I’ve found myself in many conversations based around hardships people are facing. I’m sure if I gathered any of us together around a table we could all discuss the difficulties or fears we are facing. We all have them.
Several months ago I wrote a post entitled, And the Lord Shut Him In. As I was searching scripture I was amazed at what the hand of God did in the life of Noah. Literally!
Genesis 7:16
So those that entered, male and female of all flesh, went in as God had commanded him; and the Lord shut him in. (N.K.J.V.)
The Lord literally shut Noah, his household, and all the animals in the ark. That, my friends, is the mercy of God!
In July, we packed up the kids and journeyed on a cross country road trip in the minivan. We traveled through a lot of rain. It would be perfectly sunny one moment and then, straight ahead just a few minutes down the road, clouds would be hovering and rain would pour. The rain was located in different sections.
I remember thinking of the flood and how nice it might have been if God would have just said to Noah, “Noah, I know you walk in obedience with me, so I’m going to save you and your family. I’ve designated this nice, little, sunny, dry area for you. Stay in this section of land and you will be okay.” Um… nope.
Instead, Noah in all his obedience had to work. He worked to build the ark, and then he had to stomach living inside of it. Genesis 7:24 tells us the water prevailed for 150 days.
But then something wonderful happened…
Genesis 8:1
Then God remembered Noah, and every living thing, and all the animals that were with him in the ark. And God made a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters subsided. (N.K.J.V.)
God remembered Noah! And not in the sense where He just thought about him and knew he was there. This was an action. He remembered Him and acted by causing a wind. As a result, the waters began to subside. His divine mercy reigned over the life of Noah that day.
God knows we are going to face trials, but when we are obedient and place our focus and trust on Him, He WILL show us mercy!
- Just like God did for Noah, He will shut us into safety. However, we have to build the “ark.” In my life, I consider this to be building a solid foundation in Christ.
- He will remember us and act accordingly for our good.
We might think there has to be an easier way than working to build and then take a wild ride in an ark, but God knows. He knows the particulars of our lives. He sees things we never will. We have to trust.
When we are focused on obedience, something beautiful will rise out of the flood.
I know something beautiful will rise out of your flood. Stay focused, remain obedient, and if you are still riding the waves on the “ark”, then hold on dear ones, His mercy is new!
If you would like to have my new eBook Mercy Waits for free, click here. And, maybe you could even share about it on social media?!?!
Such timely words Jennifer. You always inspire and it seems God so desperately speaks to me through you lately. I am so grateful for you!
Hi Kimberly. I always pray God will use the words He gives me to touch a life. I’m so happy you are blessed by it today. Have a wonderful day, friend!
Jennifer,
Popping over from Crystal Stine’s blog…I love the analogy that you paint…that God will shut us into safety, but we must be obedient in building the ark. I have gone on many wild ark rides in my life and always what I cling to is my foundation built on God and His word. Thanks for a wonderful post!
Blessings,
Bev
Thanks for reading, Bev! Obedience is key although it isn’t always easy. Have a great day!
I love these reminders. The story of Noah is so familiar that sometimes it’s one I gloss over. I love that you shared how God remembered Him…protected him completely and then remembered. Beautiful post today, friend…thank you! Happy Tuesday! 🙂
Thank you, Mel! Have a wonderful day!
I’m visiting from the Behind the Scenes post. I’ve grown up hearing the story of Noah, but I’m taking something new with me from your post. Good reminders.
I’m so glad. Thank you for visiting, Lindsay!
Dear Jennifer
Your words make me think how we need to step into another “ark” our Pappa made for us; our Lord Jesus. Just like Abraham we don’t know what lies ahead, but we know the One in whom we live.
Blessings XX
Mia
Beautifully stated, Mia! Have a great day!
Such a beautiful reminder. Thanks for you sweet words today.
I’d never really thought about it as being shut in the ark, but that’s just what I needed to be reminded of today.
And then the ACTION of remembering. Not a thought, but an ACTION. Am I taking action with my remembrances? Hmmmm. I think not. Time to change. Time to act.
Hi Jen. He keeps us safe, remembers us, and acts according to His best for us. I’m so happy the post spoke to you. Have a great day!