Genesis 7
“As the waters rose higher and higher above the ground, the boat floated safely on the surface.” (Genesis 7:18, NLT)
After decades of preparation, the ark was finally completed, and the dreadful day had arrived. The rain came down, the flood came up, and the ark lifted high above the earth. Outside the storm was raging; inside eight people and thousands of animals were all safe and sound. The same conditions that were destroying the outside world were assuring God’s people that He was faithful.
Circumstances that are threatening and disturbing to others can be a source of peace and comfort to believers when we trust in Almighty God. We know that He is sovereign, and He causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Despite the raging storm, we can rest in the LORD.
Sometimes the enemy comes in like a flood, but the LORD raises a standard against him (Isaiah 59:19). The secret to rising above it all is to take refuge in the ark of Christ. If we are in Him then we need not fear, for He will protect us from the enemy’s attacks.
We may look around at things happening in the world today and be distraught. What if the economy fails? What if I lose my job? What if we are violently attacked? How can I protect my children from evil influences everywhere? But Jesus promised that bad days will come.
“And there will be strange signs in the sun, moon, and stars. And here on earth the nations will be in turmoil, perplexed by the roaring seas and strange tides. People will be terrified at what they see coming upon the earth, for the powers in the heavens will be shaken.” (Luke 21:25–26, NLT)
But for those who trust in Christ, these things are the signs that our King is coming!
“So when all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near!” (Luke 21:28, NLT)
Our real concern should not be for ourselves, but for those who are outside who have not entered through the narrow Door. When the Titanic sunk, many people drowned in the icy waters when lifeboats were nearby with plenty of room. But the people in the lifeboats would not paddle to the crying voices for fear that too many people would capsize their boat. Consequently, the people in the ocean perished.
God has placed us here for such a time as this. The Door is still open. Outside people are drowning in despair and hopelessness. Let us pray that God opens our eyes and fills us with compassion to bring them on board before it is too late.