playing catch-up right now because i missed a few days but i’m back! it was great reading about the first covenant but i’m still confused about the canaan part. if anyone understands it better and could help me out that would be amazing :)
To this day I still get amazed at how long Noah lived! I often imagine what people back in bible times looked like as they lived for sooooo long. It amazed me!
The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear it’s sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from of where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” John 3:8. What a beautiful imagery representing the Holy Spirit!
I’ve always wondered this as well. The answer I was given is that it has to do with mockery. Instead of helping his dad he went out and talked about it with his brothers
@Claire Wolfe: I’m a pastor and I have a million questions about things in the Bible! In fact, the more I study, the more questions I have. I don’t think there is anything at all wrong with having questions, I think it shows that you are thinking about what you are studying, and that you trust God’s goodness to know that his love is not contingent on our understanding and agreeing 100% with everything we read in the Bible. I’d encourage you to seek out a trusted pastor or older sister in Christ (she may not be older than you in years but in her relationship with Christ). But know it’s ok to question what they say too! If this walk with our Lord was east it wouldn’t take us all a lifetime ;)
I’m a pastor and I have a million questions about things in the Bible! In fact, the more I study, the more questions I have. I don’t think there is anything at all wrong with having questions, I think it shows that you are thinking about what you are studying, and that you trust God’s goodness to know that his love is not contingent on our understanding and agreeing 100% with everything we read in the Bible. I’d encourage you to seek out a trusted pastor or older sister in Christ (she may not be older than you in years but in her relationship with Christ). But it’s ok to not
I feel like I’ve been questioning a lot of things in the Bible since 2022. I’ve been a believer for 8 years and i know God is true, but sometimes the questions can be really overwhelming. I encourage you to not let unknown answers disrupt your relationship with the king of kings. Because after many web searches about different topics, I find that my heart had begun to grown cold & bitter and i hadn’t even realized it. Because when we start valuing theology or exact facts over leaning into the mystery of who God is, we begin to lose who we are in the process and we become really skeptic people. I encourage you to seek answers because there are answers, but not for everything. I think if God wanted us to truly know all, we would. But isn’t that what faith & trust means? Leaning into the mystery. Hoping and believing in what you can’t fully see or know. I encourage you to despite every question, talk with God about your questions and love him. Everything else will fall where it needs to. All glory be to him.
Man Praise God! Vv. 15 “…creature that has breath of life came to Noah..” God sent the creatures to Noah and be obeyed. God have him a command and the mean to full full it. And Noah obeyed. Do I do the same? God ask of me and he equips me to fulfill what he ask. What a gracious God, he never leaves me stranded!
In many cultures, mockery is a form of wickedness, disrespect, and/or disobedience. My thought is that because Ham was going to mock his father to his brothers, he was willing to disrespect the patriarch of the family which again in most cultures is the highest rank in the family hierarchy. Because Scripture stated that Noah was blameless in the sight of God, Noah was obviously obedient to God and understood the importance of being obedient, he was upset that his son had disregarded it so easily. If Ham could so easily be so careless with his earthly father, how then would he be with our Heavenly Father?
As for Canaan, I read at one time that the land Ham was given was in the modern day Turkey/Iraq region. Look at how this part of the world has always been in conflict. I think it was mentioned in Scripture, so that we can fast forward the story to see the history of what has transpired since then.
I hope this helps. May God bless you in your study of His Word.
In many cultures, mockery is a form of wickedness, disrespect, and/or disobedience. My thought is that because Ham was going to mock his father to his brothers, he was willing to disrespect the patriarch of the family which again in most cultures is the highest rank in the family hierarchy. Because Scripture stated that Noah was blameless in the sight of God, Noah was obviously obedient to God and understood the importance of being obedient, he was upset that he son had disregarded it so easily. If Ham could so easily be so careless with his earthly father, how then would he be with our Heavenly Father?
As for Canaan, I read at one time that the land Ham was given was in the modern day Turkey/Iraq region. Look at how this part of the world has always been in conflict. I think it was mentioned in Scripture, so that we can fast forward the story to see the history of what has transpired since then.
In many cultures, mockery is a form of wickedness, disrespect, and/or disobedience. My thought is that because Ham was going to mock his father to his brothers, he was willing to disrespect the patriarch of the family which again in most cultures is the highest rank in the family hierarchy. Because scripture stated that Noah was blameless in the sight of God, Noah was obviously obedient to God and understood the importance of being obedient, he was upset that he son had disregarded it so easily. If Ham could so easily be so careless with his earthly father, how then would he be with our Heavenly Father? As for Canaan
I wish to be just like Noah when it comes to his obedience. God told him what he needed to do, and Noah did it. Noah put his full faith and trust into God and obeyed. I feel like so often we want to be self sufficient and do things on our own. We need God, we need His guidance, Gods plan is always better than our own fleshy plans.
My understanding is that Ham intruded on Noah’s privacy and mocked him, therefore Ham broke his trust and disrespected Noah. Then he went on to tell his brothers to do the same sins. Since Ham was Noah’s son, Noah in turn cursed Ham’s son to bring shame to Ham.
Noah was obedient to the Lord and I pray that I am being obedient when the Lord tells me to do something. the rainbow is a sweet reminder of how God always keeps His promises!
John 3:16 is one of my fav verses. it’s so deep. thank you Lord for loving us so much. loving me so much that You would send your Only Son down to save us so that we could have a relationship with You and live forever with You in Heaven.
Noah was obedient to the Lord and I pray that I am being obedient when the Lord tells me to do something. John 3:16 is one of my fav verses. it’s so deep. thank you Lord for loving us so much.
I had the same question! I looked it up and from my understanding, the reason he cursed Canaan and not Ham was because the Lord had previously put a blessing on Ham. He cursed him because instead of quickly looking away from his dad’s nakedness and covering him up, he went out and gossiped to his brothers about it. This curse is prophetic and the Lord was using it to set the path for Canaan as we see them as an active participant throughout the old testiment. Without this curse the relationship between Israel (descendants of Shem) and Canaan may have looked very different. This is why even though to US it may seem like a dramatic curse, it was the Lord using it to further the story that leads to the gospel! Also remember, if Noah was that drunk, he was probably still feeling it in the morning when he gave the curse, which could explain why it seems like an awfully dramatic response to what Ham had done. BUT this shows how God is completely sovereign AND gracious. He can use even our sin (Noah’s drunkenness) to further the gospel.
reading this really reminds me that sometimes when we see bad, we have to know that there is a reason. truly holding God in our heart and accepting everything is hard. but even in the bad, i have to know that God is working on me in my life in ways i may not know right away
Can someone help with interpretation? Gen 9:25 when Ham sees Noah’s nakedness & tells his brothers who then lay clothes on Noah. Noah then curses Ham’s son, Canaan. Why did Noah curse Ham/Canaan anyway? Was it because Ham has informed his brothers aka talking about Noah’s nakedness to them without Noah knowing? But didn’t they help by clothing Noah? Thanks in advance!! Just a little confusing for me
We are amazed by human birth, the miracle of physical life! I just had my baby in November. But in John 3, Jesus elevates spiritual birth even more. When He changes a life and forgives sin, it’s even more mysterious and miraculous!
Thinking of our lockdown situation similar to Noah in the ark, the same God will keep us safe just as he did many years ago, because Jesus is the same yesterday, today & forever.
I had not either. After hearing this story my whole life that never has been clear. I also find it interesting that the dove was used to fulfill God’s promise of the end of the flood too.
“14And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” Love this so much. Such an easy way to explain the gospel to others.
It struck me that some of the animals on the ark were there solely to become a burnt offering to God after they departed the ark. I hadn’t thought of that before.
I loved that John used the example of the “best friend” standing beside the Groom and so happy for him as he marries his bride (the Church)
This was such a great analogy.
So many good take-a-ways from these passages. Have read all before, and it definitely helps to have a study Bible to reference and the comments from other SRT ladies. Love the community of other readers!
Yes, same! I was reminded of the past (almost) year consisting of lockdowns and major changes to our lifestyles. Even after nearly a year in the ark, God remembered Noah! Surely He remembers us wherever we are as well.
He must increase, so I must decrease. Powerful words from John. I pray the same for myself, more of you Lord and less of me. Help me to realize that it’s always been about you.
I feel like the Old Testament and the the New Testament passage in today’s and yesterday’s passage both have a common theme of God’s provision for his people and his love despite our sin. ❤️ Shows the nature of God’s heart for us and loved seeing the parallel of new and old back to back.
I found this passage a rather difficult passage to grasp my head around. But after continued reflection and looking at the comments I feel I now have a better understanding
Loved today’s passage! Noah’s sons covering the shame of their father rather than exposing it is just like Jesus with us ~ how stunning is grace extended!
day 3:))) I really love what Brittany had to say about today’s reading. i agree completely. I had a hard time fully understanding today’s reading but after reading some comments, devotionals and analyzing further, i think i have a better understanding of the verses today:)
Day 3 done- it was hard for me to see a clear overall message from the passages but there were bits and pieces I was able to take and put meaning to. I enjoyed reading the passages about John and Jesus both baptizing. John had spent so much time being in the spotlight that when Jesus started to become popular, someone else felt the need to tell John- it almost seemed like he was trying to instigate a turf war between John and Jesus. Instead, John is humble and says that he was never truly the one in the spotlight but that it has always been the lord.
I have never been baptized- in fact I am at the beginning of my spiritual relationship with god. Reading this makes me excited to be baptized one day and to have my children baptized as well so we can have eternal life in heaven.
Baptism ,to be born again has been on my mind a lot over the last few years. Today’s reading cemented that idea that I need to be baptised when I’m ready.
When I was very young, my parents got divorced and this resulted in a lifestyle in which I didn’t attend church like I should. My mom loves Jesus but for whatever reason did not make it a priority to take me and my siblings to church. When I was a freshman in high school, I found God speaking to me like never before, and I really wanted to be baptized. I felt like I couldn’t get baptized because I wasn’t a consistent member at any church. I eventually was baptized, and I truly believe that it is an important part of showing your faith to God; however, I think it’s also important to remember that being baptized does not MAKE anyone a Christian. I love remembering the fact that I have Jesus in my heart and that is what will get me to Heaven one day, not me being baptized. So if you are struggling with that, I offer you comfort and hope that helps!!!
“Truly truly I say unto you unless a man is born of water and spirit he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Such a clear picture of water baptism and spirit baptism❤
Grace Cox the flood is the reason God needed to send his Son. The flood shows the consequences of sin are death. God hates sin and it seperates us from him. Jesus came in our place to die on our behalf so we didn’t have to. God knows our human nature is evil, he even allows his own Spirit to live inside us if we are to accept the gift so our human nature can be replaced by His God nature. I hope that helps answer some of your questions.
Also maybe because he went and got his brothers, drawing attention to his fathers state instead of going in and covering him himself quietly. Maybe? What are others thoughts?
Adam and Eve were ashamed of their nakedness with God, I think Ham was cursed because what he did shamed Noah. Ham was the only one who saw him naked, his brothers walked backwards so as not to see Noah.
Ham dishonored Noah by telling his brothers of the drunkenness and nakedness! The brothers did the right thing to honor their Father by not looking on his nakedness
From some preachers sermons on this, I’ve heard that there is something implied that Ham had actually done something sexual to Noah. Massbible.org. Has a post on this. It’s kind of a long read but it gives you so much cultural and time context.
I’ve done some studying from commentaries and they seem to believe ham slept with Noah while Noah was passed out drunk. If you study hams descendants this seems to fit the picture because of rampant homosexuality (sodom and Gomorrah)
When I first became a believer and started reading the Bible all the way through I got stumped here. The punishment didn’t seem to fit the crime. But if you study older commentaries it does fit with the sexual aspect
I am enjoying reading John as I have been baptized recently. Actually last Sunday! It jumps off the pages to me and brings my baptism full circle. I must decrease so he can increase.
“Whoever believes in him is not condemned… But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” (John 3:18a, 21)
We have been given the Light of the world, and how beautiful it is that (if we live according to His purposes) we can one day hear that our works have been carried out in God!
3/365
I will work on being obedient from this day forward.
I often wonder why God didn’t just use his power to spare Noah and his family without Noah building the arc… I mean he has the power to allow them to live. And it hit me like a ton of bricks this morning that Noah was displaying his obedience, not that I think God was necessarily testing Noah to see if he had the will to go through with building this extravagant arc, but I do believe God blesses those who are obedient to him. And that is exactly was Noah portrayed.
I love the way Noah listens. He was human so I am sure he doubted but he didn’t let his fear or doubt stop him. It reminded me that I might be an over thinker but I can’t let that stop me from what God has planned for me
I have found that I am one of the people who do not believe when God shows his testimony here on earth (John 3:10-12) My job will be to increase that belief through obedience in God’s word and cultivating my relationship with the Holy Spirit. I so identify with this verse in John about believing God’s earthly testimony!
I agree with those who’ve mentioned how John the Baptist is a great example of showing that the story is about Jesus, and not about us. I love the picture of being “the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, [and] rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice.”—v. 29 One of the best days for me was being able to stand next to my friend at her wedding and being able to rejoice and celebrate her that day. May I be a “bridesmaid of Jesus”, standing with him and celebrating him, instead of making it about me.
So once we believe in the Son (John 3:36), what is God’s expectation of us afterwards? I know I can’t “work” out my salvation or even do things for Him in thankfulness, but how should I live day-to-day? Love Good and love people?
Yes those are the two greatest commandments! Love god and others… I also like to think of the fruits of the spirit are examples of living like Christ… or a way of constantly being transformed into his likeness- not a striving- but of sound heart and mind- to live in gentleness, patience, kindness, self-control, love, peace, joy and faithfulness …
I was reminded that I should not be surprised by sin. Noah was surrounded by sin and then the waters to clean out the sin. John likens sin to darkness. People prefer the dark because otherwise their sin is exposed in the light. May I be transparent and in light to keep me from sin and darkness!
I have a habit of reading scripture and seeing what it’s saying about me or how it can relate to me, but I think God spoke to me today to instead focus on what it says about Him. A couple that jumped out to me in John – God LOVES! and God is TRUE! I also thought in genesis how the scriptures speak to God’s desire for order.
Praying for all you sisters right now. May we remain in Him this year as we diligently read his Word, and do it out of love and a desire to be close to Him, and not out of a spirit of obligation. ♥️
Amen to that- and not get discouraged if you are running on obligation a day or two, just keep on and pray for that love and desire to overcome you again. ♥️
Love that comparison! Also, notice that when the dove did not find dry land, that Noah waited 7 days before sending it back out, (7is the number of perfection) signifying that God’s timing if perfect and Noah recognized that.
As long as you believe in Jesus he will be their for you. We have to follow in his ways in order for greater things to come. He made man in his image and then darkness took over. Whenever we are going through a tough time or just having a good day we have to remain in love, in light, in prayer and in his word.❤️
Whenever I read about the Great Flood, I think about how the massive power would have drastically changed the earth. Mountains would be pushed up, canyons would be carved, forest would be petrified, creatures fossilized. Which is exactly what we find on earth and the fossil record.
Reading this has reminded me how we forget that we have the Lords forgiveness. No matter what I do if I truly wish to change the Lord our God is always there ready to welcome my soul and wash me clean.
John 3:30 “He must increase, and I must decrease.” This is such a beautiful verse and something that I desperately need help with. Would someone please pray that I have the strength to change my ways in order to hallow God’s name throughout the Earth? Thank you!
John 3:16 ❤️ the most important part of our story on Earth. Can someone please explain to me the story of Noah cursing Canaan? The actions of the sons seem good-willed… so why was Noah so upset? Ham did not purposely see his father naked, but he was punished for it? Any insight would be helpful!
I’m new at reading the Bible and was wondering the same thing. But rereading it,
22And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father and told his two brothers outside.
Didn’t Canaan see the father (Ham) and then told his brothers, who were the ones to cover there father (Ham) up, not Canaan. So Canaan technically gossiping?
Hi there are many ideas on this but it’s speculated that the line of Canaan was cursed. It’s a complicated answer and I would recommend searching the Blue Letter Bible for more detail. Happy Resurrection Day!
I asked a friend and he said: If we see people of God going through something we don’t have to expose them. Which Ham did cause he went and called, his brothers to see (expose) his father.
Ham could have cover his father without letting other know but he chose to expose him.
Ham telling his two brothers was the mistake. By telling, he shamed his father. The brothers’ response was appropriate. Ham should have covered his father like his brothers had. Jen Wilkin, in her study on Genesis, God of Creation, does a really good job at explaining all of this. Highly recommended!
I cannot imagine how scared Noah’s family must have been to see the rain and get on the boat knowing what the Lord had told Noah about flooding the earth. I admire their faithfulness and how much they trusted the Lord.
Having trust in the Lord may be the most difficult, yet rewarding thing one may do. Whether that be with Noah trusting in the Lord, or Jesus trusting him and leading others among himself, they both are great examples of this.
8The wind blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you don’t know where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
I love that. When I hear the Holy Spirit I need to stop and listen. I need to pay more attention to those winds in my spirit to see if it is the Holy Spirit.
John 3:12 “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” Wow.. this verse really stood out to me because I feel like it’s so true. Some people don’t think God can do even simple earthly things, so they can’t even fathom what he’s actually capable of.
I REALLY admire Noah’s faith. The story of the ark makes me in awe and wonder of what that would have been like. Johns love for Jesus and his reverence for Him is something I want to resemble. “He must increase and I must decrease.”
“God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him” (John 3:17). He came to save. To rescue. To redeem. To restore. Condemnation was the default. Jesus came to break the bondage and overturn our death sentence. Because of Him, we are free!
I’m so glad I heard about this app. I’ve been wanting to read the Bible for so long and this is an easy way for me to do it before bed at night. It’s my first time reading a Bible that isn’t for children so I’m a bit confused on the order of how it goes
I was reading this in my physical Bible which has interpretations and things and I read that the Hebrew word for wind is “ruakh” which also is translated as spirit. so in Genesis 8:1 when God blows wind over the earth to subside the waters, He was blowing His spirit over the earth and all things of the earth. That hit me so hard because Noah was obedient and patient for over a year, and finally God blew His spirit over the earth and allowed Noah and everyone on the ark to disembark safely. We need to remember this, that when God isn’t answering our prayers immediately, there is a reason. He is waiting to blow His spirit over that season of your life so that He can let you out of that season safely, just as He did for Noah ❤️
I believe that the rain God sent to the earth was his tears of disappointment at what mankind had become from what he started with Adam and Eve to Noah’s time
I am new to this so please bear with me! I am having a little trouble fully understanding why God would want to bring a flood to kill off everything He created because they have evil in them. But reading on, I see he then says he will never do it again after smelling the aroma. Did he come to love all living things even with sin after smelling the offering, thus allowing us to sin and He loving us anyway?
The best way I can put it is this— God (before Jesus) saw that the people on earth were not following his word or were using the Bible to do bad things. God then started over by sending Jesus so spread what was most important-Love.
Hi Gabriela! You have to remember that the people before the flood didn’t just have a little evil in their hearts, they were continuously doing evil. It wasn’t a little mean joke here or there, we’re talking slander, maliciousness, murder, rape. The worst thing you can think of, that was them. Every single intention of their hearts were evil (Genesis 6:5) there was ABSOLUTELY no good. Except Noah.
Fast forward, they get off the boat and Noah makes an offering to God of only clean animals. The clean sacrifice was what was pleasing to God. 1) A sacrifice can’t be made if there’s nobody to make it and 2) by Noah making that sacrifice, it shows that there is yet a remnant who still loves God and aren’t rushing to do evil. To honor that righteous remnant, if you will, God made a covenant with Noah, his sons, and the folks that would come from them. I hope that makes sense!
Hey Gabriela! I just read your question and I first want to reassure you that God is not scared by questions, and it’s okay to have them! I’m so happy that you are willing to ask them to this community :) now, to answer your questions, much like everyone else has said: the world was evil at the time of Noah. Nobody did right and none but Noah worshipped God.
When God made the promise to never flood the Earth again, it wasn’t because he suddenly decided to start loving mankind despite sin. It was because he decided that he would never again punish the earth because of mankind’s sin, and he wouldn’t repeat the flood later.
16Those that entered, male and female of all flesh, entered as God had commanded him; and the Lord closed it behind him.
36‘He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
Obedience is important!
I love the picture of the Lord closing the ark behind Noah…what a caring Father!
You shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood. 5And for your lifeblood I will require a reckoning: from every beast I will require it and from man. From his fellow man I will require a reckoning for the life of man.
Is it simply saying that humans shouldn’t eat humans? Sorry for the silly! But curious! :)
Hi Mellanie! I think it’s more to do with the blood of the animals, (and humans too) that it was considered unclean to eat the blood of an animal, or rather to eat an animal who’s blood hadn’t been drained, under the old covenant. Until the new covenant arrives in Acts and it is revealed to Peter what was considered unclean to eat to be clean. Does that make sense?
Could anyone explain how there is God saying he won’t hurt the ground because of man, but we suffer so much deforestation and global warming and plastic in oceans? Is it because of the sin of man? Not an attack or anything, just looking for some clarification!!
That’s a good thought! I definitely believe it’s because of our sinful nature as humans. He promised not to flood the earth again, but didn’t promise that we wouldn’t deal with the consequences of our own neglect of the world (deforestation as a result of our need for more energy, paper, etc., global warming from aerosols and other chemical emissions, and plastic in the oceans simply because of the amount of waste that currently takes up space on earth). He did provide us a Savior through which those things could be redeemed! He’s given a lot of men and women the abilities to create new ways to help take care of the planet, for which I’m so grateful!
I think that He just means that he won’t curse the ground to the extent that he did when he sent the Flood. When He sent the flood he intended to destroy everything on the Earth. Now, he sends various forms of natural disasters, allows pollution, etc., but we know He continues to love us in Christ and refrains from destroying all of creation. I hope that helps :)
This may be a silly question- but what does it mean for sea creatures? They weren’t collected by Moses- and one would assume that they would survive the flood. Does anyone know anything about this?
I was thinking the same thing. I think its interesting because we have only discovered a fraction of the sea and sea life. And I personally think this means most sea life survived the flood and that’s why we have some creepy looking things in there!
This really struck me too. Often as Christians we are so quick to expose others sins and weaknesses we see (even just by drawing in our brothers And sisters in Christ) where truly we may be called to cover them and love the person quietly through their transgression. I don’t know for a fact how would this look like in a church today? Or with our spouses? May God give us wisdom and insight on how to quietly cover those around us who are exposed and to honor Christ in our dealings with sins and the sins of others. Amen
I love reading everyone’s comments after I have read the scripture for the day. It really helps me understand more of what I read and also pull things from scripture that I did not see myself.
John 3:10-12 Jesus can be so sassy:) I feel as though through his perfection we sometimes overlook his humanly characteristics and its those characteristics that make me feel so much closer to him
I am drinking this truth up trying to not rush through lines to check this off my list, but truly ask God to reveal himself to me.
Thankful for the reminder that the gospel is not just the entry into being a believer but it is everything. Jesus is the beginning, middle and end. He gives his children the spirit without measure that we may walk in power. I am not condemned by my sin, but He is faithful to his covenant and faithful to forgive me as I walk in the light.
Can anyone explain to me exactly what happened with Noah and Caanan? Did he just see him naked? I want to analyze that part of the passage more thoroughly and figure out why Noah was so angry
The way I took it was Ham saw him naked and ran to tell the other brothers rather than covering him or helping him, while the two brothers came in backwards and covered him without looking. So I think he was angry that Ham didn’t help but just spread gossip.
I love reading all of these comments. Sometimes, as believers in an unbelieving world, we can feel alone or as if we there are only a few of us out there. It’s so encouraging to read all of your thoughts. I feel like I’ve found another community of believers! Please continue to share :)
Hi Vanessa! I agree I love reading the comments and knowing I’m not alone. I feel like I have accountability partners to keep me diligent in my reading this year :)
Hi Vanessa! I agree I love reading all the comments on here. It makes me feel like I have accountability partners to keep me diligent in my reading this year! :)
I often find myself reading and rereading (sometimes feeling inadequate) when I do not understand the messages being portrayed in the Bible. That being said, I was in awe while reading how Jesus was able to so simply explain the concept of being born again to Nicodemus. The connection between the wind the spirit has stuck with me most today!
You are not alone, and you are NOT inadequate. You are a child of God and He so loves your devotion to Him and hearing His word! Remember that you are making the efforts to do the reading and putting in the work and that is what truly matters. But if you really want to know what is being said and understand it better going to church has helped me enormously. I spend hours talking with my Reverend and she helps me understand what I do not and answers all of my endless questions.
He cursed the son who saw him in his nakedness but blessed the others. It’s an explanation of why later God gives the land of Canaan over to the Israelites (who descend from Shem)
I didn’t either! But I find it confusing that in the same story it references that rain will fall for 40 days and 40 nights…then talks about after 150 days the water abated. And then after 40th night Noah opened the door of the ark.
When I first started reading the Scripture for today, immediately I thought about Noah’s age. He was over 600 years old when the Lords promise was carried out. Noah worked for years and years with the confidence that the Lord told him to build the ark. He didn’t stop. And the Lord came through with what He spoke to Noah, though it was yearssssss later. It’s such a beautiful reminder that the things the Lord has spoken will be carried out to completion, just maybe not in our timing.
Does anybody else feel a bit freaked out about animal sacrifices? I guess I don’t understand why God would ask people to kill creatures that he had made and why death had to be a punishment for any sin. Do you guys take those stories literally or no? I would call them figurative, but then, that would be saying Christ’s death was figurative which I don’t believe. I hope this makes sense. Interested to see what y’all think.
This might help: https://www.gotquestions.org/animal-sacrifices.html
God required animal sacrifices to provide a temporary covering of sins and foreshadow the perfect and complete sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Animal sacrifices have ended because Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice.
God required animal sacrifices to provide a temporary covering of sins and to foreshadow the perfect and complete sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Leviticus 4:35, 5:10). Animal sacrifice is an important theme found throughout Scripture because “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). When Adam and Eve sinned, animals were killed by God to provide clothing for them (Genesis 3:21). Cain and Abel brought sacrifices to the Lord. Cain’s was unacceptable because he brought fruit, while Abel’s was acceptable because it was the “firstborn of his flock” (Genesis 4:4-5). After the flood receded, Noah sacrificed animals to God (Genesis 8:20-21).
Thanks to Adam and Eve death is already the consequence for sin. The death of an animal is just a temporary covering for that sin. It also foreshadows Christ’s sacrifice. Ultimately it is faith that saves though. Paul talks about this in Romans.
I never noticed how the flood story mirrors and echoes the creation and fall story. The creation of a new earth, if you will, followed by the command to multiply, followed by consequences of the taking of a life (reminder of cain there) and finishing with Noah being naked and shamed. No matter how many times God could want to start over, we don’t change because of the sin from the fall. The story replays itself over and over again. This is why we have the gospel. God so loved the world He sent his son to die to save it. Instead of destroying sinful humanity again in another flood, He died. Hallelujah!
I never noticed how the flood story mirrors and echoes the creation and fall story. The creation of a new earth, if you will, followed by the command to multiply, followed by consequences the taking of a life (reminder
Noah was being exposed and mocked by Ham. You can think of it in a way of “God chose this guy, appointed this guy over us and look he’s drunk. He is a fool, a drunk” when in reality by mocking Noah he is mocking God’s decision of appointing Noah. It is common in this time to curse the first born son because that is where all of the fathers inheritance goes. Therefore he mocked Ham’s son Canaan.
From the context it’s because Ham saw Noah’s nakedness and didn’t cover him but instead he went and told his brothers. It sounds very disrespectful to Noah. Almost like ham was making fun of him. But Noah blesses his other 2 sons because they covered Noah and did so backwards indicating they didn’t see his nakedness out of dignity.
In my Old Testament class my professor said scholars assume it was because Ham had potentially physically touched his dad in an inappropriate way because of his nakedness. Because in other translations Noah is like, “Ham, what did you do to me?”
Conflict runs amok in our communities today. Like Shem and Japheth we need to work together to correct others in our faith when they are wrong but to do it with living hearts. And like John, we must recognize the gifts of others and that we may not be the best leader or teacher for some.
I am STRUCK by the friendship and humility of John the Baptist. To be so confident and sure of your place of “preparing the way” for Jesus’ arrival, to then sharing with others and explaining the joy of the bridegrooms best man, just rejoicing in the joy of hearing his friends voice. Makes me so teary eyed, oh how I hope to reflect John’s joy and friendship in the way he lived his life for God!
I found it so beautiful that the LORD set the rainbow as a sign of the covenant between Him and the earth. He is so sweet. It is just a reminder that I have to really appreciate all of God’s creation and the beauty in the small details. Thank you Father for all of your blessings. I choose joy today. I choose you.
The last verse we read in John today is what really stood out to me: 36Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.
It’s the whoever does not OBEY the Son that really got to me. First it talks about believing, but then it doesn’t stop there, it then talks about obeying.
It was just a good reminder that this life is not my own. It’s not enough to just believe. Even the demons believe and tremble. Faith without works is dead. Let us not compromise in this new year and work hard at obeying His word and everything He asks of us!
I read this this thought in the book Whisper, today. The author said to read scripture until I get to a verse that tells me to do something and then get up and do it. Faith without works is dead.
I found it interesting that verses 12, 17, and 24 gives us insight into how long the event of the actual flood took place. It wasn’t just a 40 day thing that went away quickly. Noah and everyone on the ark endured months of turbulent waters before they could float along peacefully. Of course then they had to wait a long time for the waters to die down before they could walk on dry land. Can you imagine how grumpy and stir crazy they must have been? Yet the Bible never mentions that they questioned the Lord or cursed Him for putting them through it. I know the Bible focuses on Noah in this account but I think that his family also had faith to be able to endure this trial on the earth. I’m sure they could have ultimately chosen to stay outside the ark if they had wanted to.
Mmm so good! Everyone quotes John 3:16 but 17 is what I need reminded of most days! Believers, if you feel condemned by God, it is NOT His voice you are hearing. Most of the time it is my voice, my past voice, the world or the Father of Lies himself- satan. Stand firm that if you have placed your faith in Christ- you stand freely forgiven in unending grace.
Last year I made a group on Facebook for those of us reading through in a year—search on FB for “The Bible in a Year w/ SRT”. I’d love for you to join us in discussion about the reading & prayer & accountability for each other.
Thanks for this- I am not on FB but know your comments bless many of us- I followed all you posted here last year and always learned from your written thoughts!
I couldn’t reply to Rebecca Leek’s post but to respond to the question of God needing reminders, I don’t think He needs a reminder. I think that His whole point there is to model remembrance for us. I think those verses are to show us the thought process of remembering. If it is important enough for God to be intentional about remembrance, how much more important for us to remember covenants and gratitude.
Genesis 8:21 says, “for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth”.
There is hope for each of us in John 3:36 “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him”.
I loved the verses of Nicodemus and Jesus. The way that Jesus speaks truth into his life with all boldness and authority of how we must be born again spiritually. My takeaway is to speak boldly for Christ
I was curious about the animals being filled with the “breath of life”…. I have sometimes heard the breath of life refers to as the spirit….. thoughts?
Short, powerful verse. I must continue to humble myself if I want the Lord to work in a more powerful way in my life. That was my interpretation ❤️
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
I think it was that and that Cannan’s actions were disrespectful and hurtful. He didn’t tell his brothers asking for help but to hurt his father in my opinion.
Great question. Though I’m not 100% sure, I do know that “clean” animals were meant for sacrifice and the animals that were blind or lame wasn’t pleasing to God as a pure sacrifice. It was made mention that God was tired of it. Trying to remember where and once I find it, I’ll let you know. =) not completely sure why there were unclean animals as well but I’m thinking that it might be referring to them not being perfect like they were lame or blind. I’ll look into it tonight for/with you! I’m curious now.
I am constantly in awe of Noah’s obedience! I can’t imagine dropping everything and doing something so crazy lie building the ark and trusting that the storm would come. Think about the criticism he received…
I would love to have the intimate communication that He had with the Lord. He was in such clear direction
If you are not a certain denomination then you can go to a non denominational church for Christians. I go to a Baptist church personally. I have been to all sorts of denominations and Baptist is what I tend to really enjoy.
Kinaya, I second what Nicole said. I was raised Baptist but go to a nondenominational church now. Both are great! Check out a few churches around you for info on baptism!
Kinaya, I also go to a baptist church and really enjoy it. Being baptized shows other people that you are a believer. It shows people that you believe in the word of God. It does not matter what church you go to as long as it believes that Jesus came down and he is your lord and savior.
I’m confused on why as children we were taught there were 2 animals of every kind when actually there was 14 of the clean animals right? Because the scripture says 7 of the clean animals “male and his female.” Am I right that the male and female is counted as one? Because if they’re counted separately, then there’s an animal without a mate because it’s odd… does this make sense to anyone else? lol
Hi Ashley! I think God had them take more clean animals because they would eat those animals. They needed more clean animals for food and to produce flocks and beards eventually. Sometimes when I chat with vegan friends I refer to this and the story of Cain and Abel. Looks like God endorsed eating at least some meat from the very beginning of humankind.
7 pairs of clean animals…so 7 pairs of bulls, 7 pairs of doves, etc. And then only 2 pairs of every unclean animal. I’m not sure why we aren’t taught this correctly. I had never caught it before!
Noah was obedient. He did “all that the LORD had commanded.” And after being stuck in a smelly boat for such a long time, I could relate to Noah probably thinking God had forgotten about him. Yet we see in Genesis 8:1 “God remembered Noah.” I love this. I love this so much. Even when we think we are alone and He isn’t listening, God doesn’t forget about us he remembers us just as he remembered Noah. It’s kind of funny to be reading this, it’s been raining in my area lately and the other day when I was walking out of Trader Joe’s there was a double rainbow. I kid you not there were like 5 different people standing out of their cars taking pictures. I couldn’t help but think, “haven’t they ever seen a rainbow. I mean even double rainbows are becoming more common.” Yet today I find myself totally humbled. Because what I saw was “another double rainbow.” I am reminded that to Noah this wasn’t just a rainbow, but it was a covenant between Noah and God. This is is the moment when Noah was reminded that God remembers him and doesn’t forget. So the next time I see a rainbow, it’s just a reminder that God remembered.
I am so new to this, being a part of a group while reading scripture, and I’m even moving to become a member of a church 1/22. Is there a group, like the facebook group where it’s appropriate to ask questions and just have nice chats? I have questions because my relationship with the lord has always just been he and I and not with the Bible helping me understand the LARGE picture.
I’m new, and scared about things and really want to continue with this wonderful set up for the readings ( both this one and the 28 day one that just started)
When I’m reading the daily scripture or the 365 daily bible I feel peaceful. I feel joy. Is that normal?
I’m a 29 year old woman, single, going to school full time and working part time at a hospital. My life is stressful and 99% I don’t have anyone to speak to besides my two cats. It seems the best way to figure out thing is to speak with other people who have or who are going through same tribulations
Hi Karlena. Welcome and I’m so glad that you’re a part of this. I rarely write posts but I try to read up on everyone’s post.
It’s so great that reading the Bible brings you peace. After all, it is God’s word and God’s the peace giver.
I sometimes find it hard to remain steadfast with reading plans but I’m praying for God’s grace to remain steadfast this year.
“But God remembered Noah,” in Genesis 8:1 reminded me of Ephesians 2:4, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us.”
God destroyed the earth because of it’s wickedness and poured out His judgement through the flood, and so we too are all “children of wrath like the rest of mankind,” according to Ephesians 2.
But God had mercy on us! Just like He did to Noah. Except, Noah was righteous in God’s sight, and now we are justified by Christ’s atoning sacrifice on the cross. We are given His righteousness through faith and repentance.
Mary, thank you for sharing this! I am praying that the Lord will give you strength to dwell on things true, noble, right, pure and lovely. May He bless you in your studies!!!
Good luck Mary. I pray for the lord to give the strength & knowledge to stay true to your studies, and allow dwelling of men & the urges to fall away until your right time.
I loved verse 29 in John 3 where it talks about the bridegroom and the friend of the bridegroom rejoicing at his voice. Being in a season of life where many friends are getting married this was such a great picture in my mind of watching your friends get married and rejoicing at their happiness and all that goes with the day. They are the ones that are get all the attention that day and there is no greater joy seeing them get the attention they deserve – just as we make Him increase and we decrease – we give Him the attention He deserves because He is worthy of it and it is our joy to do it.
I love John 3:18, I looked up the word condemned and applied what God is not:
He does not dissaprove of me.
He does not critique me
He does not attack me
He does not denounce me
He does not blame me
He does not reprimand me
He does not rebuke me
He does not find fault in me
Love it.
JOHN 3:17!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! For all who are in darkness and far from God, for all who want to know who God is and what He’s all about… His heart is fully summed up in His plan for us – that not only did He give up His only Son that we might be saved (John 3:16, which everyone quotes) BUT ALSO JOHN 3:17 for Jesus did not come to condemn the world but to save us all.
God’s true heart is revealed in these two verses : love and grace for all is His desire and the purpose of His plan for us.
I just wanna run around my neighborhood and shout JOHN 3:17!!!!!!!! John 3:17, people!!!!!! Get to know the real heart of God… Because so many have such a misconstrued perception of who He is and what He’s about and what He wants… He wants to shower us with His love and bring us all to Himself by grace!!!! ❤️ How wonderful is that?!?!?!
John 3:30 “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
I think this meaning goes so much deeper than John lessening the amount of people that he baptizes. “Less of me, more of Christ” is what I got out of this, because when Christ comes into our lives we become more like him, and less like our flesh.
Love your thoughts, ladies! Ham’s disrespect of Noah also reminds us, that even in their mistakes, we are to show honor to our mother and father. Which is exactly what the other brothers did, despite what I imagine was to Ham’s disappointment. As pointed out by Matthew Henry, perhaps Ham struggled with the sin of drunkenness … and found comfort in exploiting his dad’s moment of weakness so he could hide from his own.
I love God’s Word! It never gets old, always living and active!
In Genesis 8:21 it says that “the Lord said in his heart, ‘I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth…'”
Do you think God felt remorse for bringing the flood? Or do you think he was lamenting the fact that mankind was so depraved that he had to bring justice?
This verse confuses me a bit, because God would have known the outcome yet it seems like He felt remorse in some way…
I feel like He knew what would happen, but Je was still disappointed that our free will given to us by Him led us there. I think about my children: they can choose to obey or disobey, and while sometimes I KNOW what one will choose if still hurts when they choose disobedience/disrespect. I may know it is coming, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt my heart. Does that make sense?
From what I read about that passage my study bible, Canaan was cursed because of Ham’s reaction to seeing Noah drunk and naked in the tent. Ham didn’t do anything about it, he just went and told his brothers. They respectfully covered him up.
The commentary portion says, “There is no reasonable support for the notion that some perverse activity, in addition to seeing nakedness, occurred. But clearly, the implication is that Ham looked with some sinful thought, if only for a little while until he left to inform his brothers. Perhaps he was glad to see his father’s dignity and authority reduced to search weakness. He thought his brothers might share his feelings so he eagerly told them. They did not, however, share his attitude.” Obviously, there’s a little bit of speculation in there, but I think it makes some sense. (I use a the MacArthur Study Bible.)
Basically, his descendants are being cursed for his behavior.
Why did Noah curse Canaan? “20 Noah began to be a man of the soil, and he planted a vineyard. 21 He drank of the wine and became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent. 22 And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father and told his two brothers outside. 23 Then Shem and Japheth took a garment, laid it on both their shoulders, and walked backward and covered the nakedness of their father. Their faces were turned backward, and they did not see their father’s nakedness. 24 When Noah awoke from his wine and knew what his youngest son had done to him, 25 he said,
“Cursed be Canaan;
a servant of servants shall he be to his brothers.””
I believe it is because when Ham saw his father’s nakedness he didn’t cover him up. Instead he told his brothers, who then covered him. Maybe he was disappointed in his actions. Just a guess.
I did some more research on it, and when it says he “saw the nakedness”, there is some discussion on what that meant. It could have meant to just see, but it also could have meant that he performed a homosexual act with him (see Leviticus 20:17) and then others thought he might have made fun of or gossiped about his fathers drunkeness, but I’m not sure how that was derived.
I’m wondering why God left the waters of the foods so long. Any living thing that drowned would die within a few minutes. Maybe the length of time helped dead things dissolve in the water so that when it all dried up, there wouldn’t be bodies everywhere? It was several months of everything being under almost 300 feet of water. Then it took more time for it to all dry up.
I wondered if maybe is was testament to Noah’s faith? God told him that it would rain for forty days and forty nights, but despite that time being over (as far as is in that section) Noah has no words of dissent or questioning God. Instead he waits until the time comes to leave the ark, whenever that may be. If that’s the case it makes Noah creating an altar for God after he leaves the ark all the more powerful. Instead of questioning God after he leaves the ark he continues to worship Him.
I absolutely love what John The Baptist says in verse 30! He must become greater and greater and I must become less and less!! What a great reminder that we must “die” to ourselves daily and surrender all to Him and stay humble!!!
Just curious and could be interpreting this verse all wrong – 22 “As long as the earth endures,
seedtime and harvest,
cold and heat,
summer and winter,
day and night
will never cease.”
I know there aren’t any contradictions in the bible; however, how does this verse correlate with what is said in Revelation about the end of the earth? Any insight is appreciated!!
It may also mean “only” as long as the earth endures… as in, before it is destroyed and made anew, we will always experience normal seasons and day and night, etc. Unlike heaven, where there will be no night and our light will come from the Lamb.
It’s say “as long as the Earth endures”, not that it will endure. At some point it will be destroyed and then there will be a new heavens and a new earth. But this promise of harvests and season until then stood out as a great promise to me! I’d not noticed it before.
In Old Testament days the Holy Spirit empowered specific people for specific purposes, Jesus being God with skin on was the first to be given no limit. Today, because of Jesus’ sacrifice that brought us redemption-part of gift to us includes the ability all believers now have to be filled as well with no limit, our difference is that we still daily have to fight the battle of sinful nature we’re born with and inclined to unlike Jesus. We too can receive this fullness but it requires daily surrender asking God by his spirit to do the work of defeating sin in the flesh that we can’t do on our own and empowering us by that same spirit and grace we receive to love and be Jesus to others. And for those days we fall short, because God knows we’re not perfect, there is grace. Until heaven when flesh and sin will be destroyed and all will be restored to perfection again.
20 ‘For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.
This verse was a great reminder to me of what the lost must overcome, my prayer is that the Lord will lead me in His way to know how to bring light even when it is hated. Thank you Lord that light shines even when it is hated!
“He must increase, I must decrease”
This is the verse that my small group leader shared with me last year when I was too consumed with myself and my own problems to worry about my relationship with God. This is the verse that got me really reading my bible for the first time. I kept this verse as the wallpaper on my phone for a month straight as a constant reminder that I should focus on God, not myself. In the past year I have grown so much in my walk with the Lord, and rereading this verse just reminds me to keep growing, because ultimately I am less and He is more
The drunkenness of Noah is like a second fall. The father of the new generation (like Adam). Ends up failing. Definitely shows the need for Jesus and God’s divine plan.
We see sin in every single biblical character yet God chooses to call them righteous.
I find it comforting that all the bible “heroes” are sinners like me – often far worse than me – yet God declares them righteous by faith (Hebrews 11)
He must increase, but I must decrease. In a world where we try to get ahead all the time and have the best of everything, we are missing the point. We need less of us and more of our savior. This really spoke to me today.
He made fun of his father by telling his brothers.
Disrespecting his father.
I love how the OT shows how Horrible sin really is. Even something we would think shouldn’t be THAT big of a deal. No matter what it is, if it’s sin then it’s worthy of punishment.
He did that because back then the father of the family was like the head of the family so if he was cursed his family was be cursed also and if he was blessed his family would be blessed. Ham was the father of Cannan so Cannan was cursed.
I may be reading into this too far, but can someone explain the significance (if any) of the Raven’s departure and never coming back? When teaching English, I always pointed out to my students that, historically, the Raven is a bad omen. Thanks!
I believe it says the Raven went “to and fro” but the Dove was the bird that first came back with the leaf, a sign that the waters were drying but then finally did not return because it found a place to land its feet. I’m not sure if there is significance in the Raven but the Dove is a reoccurring theme
9 But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark.
How many times have we ventured out and came to find that we had no place to rest?
Realizing that only in the hands of the One who made us we will have true peace.
Jesus is the True and Better Noah.
Just like the waters covered the whole earth and there was no place for the dove, so is our world covered in sin. One day we will be in our final resting place and God will take us and pull us in unto him.
I love the part where God sent the rainbow as a promise that He would never flood the earth again. I think that shows that God is true to His word and cares for Noah deeply. The last part was a little confusing and I would love it if someone could explain it to me.
To me the last part where Noah gets drunk and naked, and his sons show different responses is basically showing that the problem of sin was not done with. Let me expand.
God decided to destroy mankind because of man’s wickedness (sinful ways). God in his sovereign mercy decided to save Noah and his family. Then comes the flood and all but what is in the ark is destroyed. Noah and his family come out and are grateful to God. God makes a covenant with them and promises to not destroy the earth in the same way again. Noah’s family move on with their lives and start doing normal things like cultivating and making wine. This is the point where it all goes awry again.
God had destroyed all wicked men, but the reality is that sin had not yet been destroyed. The destruction of mankind was not the perfect solution to the problem of sin, something else had to be done and this paves the way to the need for Jesus. Because sin was still present Noah got drunk and naked and his son Ham sinned by shaming his father. Noah responds to Ham’s actions by cursing him and his descendants (Canaan). You will be able to see how this curse plays out later on in Genesis.
John the Baptist neatly summed up what I struggle with and pray about most: He must increase and I must decrease. I wrestle with my flesh and the desire to let my will rule the day. I pray so desperately for the courage to hand over my whole heart to Jesus. I was told once that, “You can’t submit to God and expect to keep any part of yourself.” I wish I had the courage to let God have His way completely, but I still find myself resisting. I fear what His changing of my heart and desires might cost me. I am ashamed of this fear, and I tell Him so, yet I still feel it. I know in my head that God is more than enough to satisfy my desires, but in some ways I have yet to experience the fullness and contentment that comes with such strong faith and attachment to Him. Not to worry. God is faithful. He will not start a work that He will not finish. I am the clay, as much as my flesh may resist, and He will mold me and use me as His vessel; I am sure if that.
Amen!! I struggle as well, maintaining the perspective that I must decrease. That I can not serve two masters:myself and God, I must be willing to set down my life in order to live for Christ and obey him. That applying his ways to my life are the best ways to live! Thank you for sharing and I pray reassurance for this new year, that God shows all he has planned for you and that He is enough! In Jesus name! Amen!
You are not alone. I, too, struggle with this daily and pray for a heart that completely gives all of my flesh, blood, soul and spirit to Him. I pray to let go of things beyond my control; not to worry or stress over the things that I have given to God.
Your introspection and recognition of your struggles is incredible. I share the same struggles at times, and your trust and prayerfulness through it all is very encouraging to me. Your trust is his works takes more faith than you know! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for your responses. I never dreamed anyone would read what I wrote, let alone respond as you ladies have. I was mostly afraid that what I wrote didn’t sound genuine. I am so comforted to know I’m not alone in my prayers and struggles. What I have had to do is take it one day at a time, submitting myself to Him every morning. He is faithful, even if I’m not. That can be my greatest comfort, and also my greatest sadness. His faithfulness is a wonderful promise to hold onto. However, my failures and lack of faithfulness are hard to face. If I struggle this much at 19 what will the rest of my years be like? How can I face an entire lifetime trying to do God’s will when my weaknesses are so many and so great? I pray that His strength be made manifest through my weaknesses, because I can do nothing with them. My best efforts have only brought me pain. Let Him use me.
Arden, at 17 I feel the same way. But the craziest thing of all is that his grace is SO much greater than our weaknesses! He can use us with the flaws we possess even when we feel he cannot. He has adopted us into a family of PERFECT love, and he loved us when we were the dirtiest, most revolting, sinful people through his Son’s death. A child cannot adopt herself into a family. The parents do all of it. I pray for the grace of perfect love to be absorbed into your heart today, Arden. Thank you for sharing.
Darby, you are indeed a kindred spirit! Thank you for your encouragement; thank you for ‘sharpening me’ as Scripture says. Like I said, I never imagined that what I wrote would even be read, let alone responded to. My expectations have been further exceeded by gaining a friend. I only wish I could talk to you more. ;)
This part really stood out to me and reaffirms God’s faithfulness to us… He didn’t say when a rainbow appears you remember what my covenant is with me… No he says “14 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, 15 I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. 16 Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”
It’s wonderful because he set the covenant by his words, he speaks and directs the clouds, rain and light to create the rainbow by day aaaand by night so he can reaffirm his faithfulness to us not our faithfulness to him. My understanding of covenants is that the lesser party is trying to bargain with the one who has the greater but here God who needs nothing shows the value he places on us though we have nothing and are nothing in comparison… Then in John 3:16 again we are reminded just how much we are loved by him that he gives his only begotten [greek word monogenes – pertaining to being the only one of its kind or class, uniqueness in kind.] son in exchange for us.
One thing I noticed from yesterday’s reading to today’s (and I hope I get a response to this even though I’m very late), is that in Genesis 5 Enoch didn’t “die,” God “took him” because he was such a righteous man. I’m only confused as to why Noah’s story ends with “and then he died” rather than “and then God took him.” Was Noah not as righteous of a man as Enoch?
My study Bible states that Enoch was taken by God without experiencing death just like Elijah. He was b also the 7th from Adam in the genealogy of Seth. 7 is the number of completeness, so maybe that was the reason he was taken? Noah was 10th from Adam in the genealogy of Seth.
It was the faith he had. It had nothing to do with righteousness Katie, Abraham ,the father of faith was righteous he was a friend of God and still died. The Amp Bible says that Enoch walked in habitual fellowship with God. Meaning that He walked in awareness of God, He walked with God, in a world where wealth, heirs and family was all that seemed to matter to most. Enoch walked in habitual fellowship with God. Something we so are not even trying much. It was his faith in God Katie, read Hebrews 11vs 5 it.God bless.
sometimes i think im too inquisitive for my own good, buuut im curious what is the significance of noah sending the raven? why didn’t he just send the dove to begin with? any idea?
“17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God.”
I think a lot of people, myself included, tend to forget this bit sometimes. We all know and have heard John 3:16 a million times. But what comes after it is so, SO powerful! Jesus isn’t condemning you! A life with Him will change you through realization of your sin amd endless love. But never once does Jesus condemn someone who walks with Him.
I think it was disrespectful of Ham to see his father and then tell his brothers. There are so cultural nuances to this story, but what he did was offensive to all involved.
There was nothing more humiliating to a man than to be exposed naked. When Canaan found his father unclothed in a drunken stupor, he did not cover him up. Instead, he chose to tell his brothers who then did what was right. Noah had just witnessed God destroying the world because of ungodly behavior – this curse was to show the severity of Canaan’s actions. He was clearly not ready to hold an authoritative role in this time of repopulation. Noah allowed him to stay in the house, but made him work for his brothers to make a clear example of Godly standards vs those that fall weak to the world.
Im sure for a father who was given the sole responsibility by God to restart human kind, it was pretty devastating to have a son witness that and still do shameful things.
He did that because back then the father of the family was like the head of the family so if he was cursed his family was be cursed also and if he was blessed his family would be blessed. Ham was the father of Cannan so Cannan was cursed.
Clean being righteous, and able to eat. Unclean, unrighteous, and can not eat. Look in Leviticus 11, that talks about the clean and unclean animals. God gave them rules that Israel could never live up to. They could never save themselves, they have always needed a savior.
Now that Christ has come, and died and rose again, he has fulfilled that law. See Acts 10:9-16
I’m a little late to the party, but I was wondering if anyone could give me some insight on genesis 9:6 Whoever sheds man’s blood, his blood will be shed by man, for God made man in His image.
I think (and this is my opinion) that this is saying those hurt mankind it will be returned tenfold. Man is made in God’s image, therefore by hurting man, you hurt God. Again, my interpretation- no facts or schooling behind it.
I believe that it means that whoever takes another person’s life will be judged by men and condemned for murder (just as is done today in the courts). Life is very sacred to God because man was created in the image of God. As Caroline also said, hurting another person hurts God as well. This is just my interpretation of the text
Gen 7:5 Noah did all God commanded and paid a huge price. And yet Gen 9:23 his 2 sons Shem and Japheth covered their father’s sin. May we give grace to all and cover the sins of our fam and friends.
Did anyone else notice that after Noah entered the boat it took 7 days for the rain to come? How often do we feel God has spoken to us about something but then He doesn’t show up when we think He should. The ESV version shows that God told Noah “in 7 days I will send rain on the earth” but my NKJV and NIV version does not quote this. Let this be my reminder that even though God tells me something, it may not be when I expect it to come to pass.
Thanks for pointing that out! It’s a great reminder. I often find myself inpatient and turning to other means to have my needs met, rather than wait for God’s perfect timing. Yet God knows us better than we know ourselves, and He certainly knows what we need and when.
” He must become greater; I must become less.” John describes perfectly what the relationship between God and his children! We must become less of ourselves in order for Him to be Lord of our lives! Have a great day ladies!!
I have a question, I am just reading the bible for the first time, and was wondering if this follows the bible exactly. I see that each day we are reading some parts of genesis and then some parts of John. The sequence doesn’t seem correct…is the app just making it this way or does the bible really go from genesis to John…back and fourth. I went from reading about how earth was created, to Cain and Abel, and now noah…didn’t know if that was supposed to be like that…jumping around to different stories so quickly. Thanks for any help you can give! :)
Jody, how exciting you are reading the bible for the first time. You are correct that it seems a bit out of order, because it is. This is moving between the New Testament and old. A lot of year long bible plans do this to help you connect history of the Hebrew culture in the old testament to the life and teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.
While the bible in a year is fantastic, for a first time reader I might suggest to start with smaller bites. John, which you’ve been reading so far in this study, is a great place to start. Follow that with Matthew, mark, and Luke. Those are each recanting a of the life of Christ and offer some of the se and different aspects of Jesus ministry, based on the author of the book.
Happy reading!
Jody, I am also excited for your new reading journey! In general, it may seem overwhelming. And as Carol noted, it is jumping around. Allow God to show you what He wants you to get, for this time. Concentrate on what you can…and don’t get overwhelmed by trying to take ~every~ point in. Every time I read a chapter again, something new jumps out… God reveals what we need for the specific “season” we are in. I couldn’t start the plan right on time, so I jumped to the day I was in… I plan to catch up the other days as I can. One day, I could only concentrate on half of a John chapter… That is okay too. I just concentrated on what few verses God was trying to point out to me. My goal is to remain consistent in my reading as much as possible, everything else is based on what God wants to share with me.
I love this app as well! It seems we are all learning together. Love the many replies & pondering notes. Especially that I can do it in my time, and usually in my robe (double bonus!)… :) Glad we can encourage each other.
My study bible says this is the first time God gives permission for them to be carnivorous but the animals blood remains sacred and not to be consumed. It’s an acknowledgement that all life is from God.
This reading made me uncomfortable with God. Actually I’ve come away all three days thinking “god is kind of being a jerk”.
So Noah gets fall down drunk and naked and the son who first finds him is punished and his whole lineage made into slaves?! That hardly seems right.
I had that same though with Cain and Able. Cain made an offering to God using the tools he had and God was displeased with it. Which sent Cain off the deep end.
Old Testament God is deeply troubling to me. And that is impacting the way I see the New Covenant.
I leave this reading more troubled than comforted.
I agree that the Old Testament can be troubling at times, mainly because our brains just don’t think that way. I like how it’s having us read parts of the NT too. It shows God’s wrath but then Jesus’ compassion. There are parts of the bible we will never understand –
Check out Hebrews. That’s one chapter that I know makes a lot of comparisons between OT and NT and attempts to help us understand what the people of that time went through when the Holy Spirit wasn’t available to them. Please keep posting questions and I’ll be praying that the Lord reveals to you his intentions during the remainder of this reading plan.
You are right, so much of the Old Testament does seem to connect with what we know of the God from the New Testament. But as far as Cain goes, what I have learned is that it was a heart attitude. Abel brought his gifts with a true and loving heart where Cain had a heart filled with resentment, manifested more in his behavior with both Abel and God. I believe the same is true with Noah’s son-his heart was not right when he helped his father-whether he mocked him or did the internal eye roll-something in his attitude was less than respectful and God knew it. He knows our hearts and consequences come accordingly. I feel that is the message behind these two stories.
The biggest thing you have to remember while reading the OT, and the whole bible is that we ALL deserve to die and we are ALL slaves to sin. Any blessing and good thing, and mercy from God is undeserved! We are sinners and while we sinning, God loved us to a point that he sent his own son to die in our place, for our mocking, our lying, our selfishness, our darkest filthiest moments. A lot of OT stories are to illustrate just how much God is saving us from… And to show us that he is serious about hating sin. He demands perfection…. If he didn’t his Son lived and died in vain.
YES! What Rachel Nickel said. Whenever I start to think “Why do bad things happen to good people, or why do good things happen to bad people” — I have to remind myself.. Switch up the question and ask “Why does God choose us?” We are so undeserving and enslaved to sin, but God — in his love chooses to save us! It’s really a beautiful thing to see when we truly realize how much we deserve death and God gives us life. Eternal, everlasting life.
I agree. It’s concerning. What I’ve gathered from Cain and Abel is that God found favor with Abels. It doesn’t necessarily mean he didn’t accept Cains. Maybe because Abel put more thought into it where as Cain did it just cause Abel did. Also with Noah’s son, I checked my study bible because it bothered me too and what it sounds like is that Canaan tried to humiliate his father by telling his brothers, indicating that he had evil intentions in his heart. The sole reason God wiped them out to begin with. Hope this helps.
With the case of Cain and Abel, Abel’s sacrifice was an offering to God that was shadowing Christ’s future sacrifice. He brought the animal offering with its blood, which is what the Lord requires for atonement of sin. Cain bringing the fruit of the land isn’t Gods way of salvation and atonement. I think what this is telling us in a spiritual sense is that there is ONE way to God the Father and that’s through the atoning sacrifice of His precious Son on the cross. And any other sacrifices we bring are not pleasing to Him. But God lovingly warned Cain there that it wasn’t His way, and to be mindful of his heart because sin was crouching at the door. I believe His rebuke there was very kind and gentle, but nonetheless Cain killed his brother out of jealously. But still even after that God showed Cain mercy by covering him so that anyone who found him wouldn’t kill him. That right there shows God’s tender side. Just a thought I had about it, because I know that the way God is portrayed in the OT can seem harsh but there are tender mercies sprinkled all throughout the OT and when you see that you’re able to recognize that even though there are sides of God we don’t particularly understand, we can know what a loving God He truly is and His great mercy for us endures forever.
3 “In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, 4 and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry.” GOD had regard for Abel’s offering because it was from the FIRSTBORN of his flock, in comparison of Cain’s offering which never mentions that is from the FIRST fruits of the ground. God was first in Abel’s heart but wasn’t in Cain’s heart and it was obvious in the way each of them may the offerings. God wants to be put first always and Cain didn’t do that and Abel did. That is way God takes Abel’s offering. And this remains true today, God wants to be put first in our lives, he wants the first fruits, not what’s leftover, and we are not really giving him anything, more like returning him a small fraction of everything that he gives us. (With our tides and offerings and also making him a priority in our life, that means above all things, FIRST) hope this was helpful and that you have more clarity, pray before you read the bible that God may reveal to you he’s true message, which is of Love!
29 He who has the bride is the groom. But the groom’s friend, who stands by and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the groom’s voice. So this joy of mine is complete. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.”
I love how “God in Heaven appoints each person’s work” John knew this so well. John is secure in what the Lord has set before him. He knows fully well he is to become less and less and Jesus is to become more and more preparing the way for Him. I want to take this on in my life. In becoming a better friend, sister, daughter of Christ. Let Jesus become greater in me! “He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less”
I’ve been so impressed in this last year with Gods holiness. I find it frightening and awe inspiring. I’m trying to learn more about his love for me and who I am in light of Jesus Christ. I have fear and trembling before a Holy God…. I want to feel the joy of his love and redemption again.
“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.”, Lord help us be lovers of the light!
In the Old Testament law there were animals that could be eaten or sacrificed (clean) and those that couldn’t. Pigs were unclean but Rams were clean. It has to do with hooves, type of food, etc.
I think it just says that Noah lived 950 years and then he died. The reason it says that Enoch was no more and then God took him away was actually a blessing. See Hebrews 11! Enoch didn’t have to see death because of his faith in God!
I have always been taught that God “took him away” or it could be said The Lord called him to himself, and it means that He called him to heaven with out a physical death on this earth.
I don’t think so. People lived longer on the earth at this time. Genesis 6:3 says that God shortened the life span just before the flood to 120 years. After that it looks like people’s lifespan began to shrink.
So mountains are in high altitude and the flood covered the mountains, and the ark was resting on the waters, so the ark was floating in extremely high altitudes! A. That had to be wicked cold. B. How did they breathe? Isn’t there a lack of oxygen that high?
It says there was a covering over the ark. And also that God shut them inside when they were all inside. Maybe this is why God shut them in, to do something to ensure that they had oxygen.
No. It was a similar year. At that period, the atmospheric levels were different allowing for longer life. It is reasonable to assume that they could still breath. Also, many of the mountain formations were likely caused by the flood so the mountains may not have been as high as they currently are.
“But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.” – John 3:21
I was just about to put that verse on here to! Wow, it’s so powerful! I love verse 29 also. What a perfect analogy with the bride and groom and the best man.
I truly love Genesis not only for its wonderful look at how it all started but for its great stories. I also love finding as much humor as I can as I read through scripture.
Can you imagine speaking to our family the way Noah did his youngest in Genesis 9:24-27? Granted, I understand there is a culture difference there, but I can’t imagine my mother turning to my sister and telling her that (as punishment for wrongdoing) she will be my servant! I imagined this as I read it and I couldn’t help but have a hearty laugh. :)
There is a lot of good truth in this book but sometimes, I really love finding those little tidbits that just bring a grin to my lips. Happy new year everyone, may it be wonderful and blessed. :)
This plan is exactly what I needed! I am 27 years old and was not brought up in church persay. I’ve always been a believer and have wanted a better relationship with God. I need God more than ever at this point in my life and I’m hoping with help from others here I’ll be able to make the connection I need so badly!
I’m right there with you Ashley! I’m also 27 was brought up in the church and even graduated from a Christian University where I was always involved in the bible/ church activities etc. lately I’ve been needing God more then ever and feel my relationship with Him is lacking. Looking forward to this study and praying for you and that your relationship with God grows through this study and others in your life!
I am right there with you! I wasn’t brought up in the church either. My husband and I started attending a local a couple years ago and recently have felt this nudge on my heart pushing me to move forward with my faith and building a stronger relationship with God. Delightfully, this study and a couple other studies I am doing has helped open my eyes and build that relationship. I am so encouraged knowing we are in the same position.
I know we should always have an urgency to read our bibles, but this year I feel such a desire to hide His word in my heart. I feel the press and the urgency to read my bible all the way through. I am reminded in these passages that great men had unyielding obedience to an unseen God. So many people want proof, want validation, mandate scriptural reference and want us to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the word of God is true. What did Noah have? Just his faith that God had given him a task. What powerful experience did Noah have in communion with our God that drove to build and take on this task? I am extremely excited for this new year and the promises of God that he has for us!
We all know John 3:16 but today 3:17 stood out…He didn’t send His son to condemn us, but to save us through Him. Makes me think of what I’ve heard older people say “thank God for Jesus!” Simple statement that is so true!
Noah’s immediate no questioning obedience & trust really stands out to me. I love what my study notes say on this…”Often we do the opposite of Noah. We worry about details over which we have no control, while neglecting specific (such as attitudes, relationships, responsibilities) areas that ARE under our control.” Trusting doesn’t mean sitting idle. It means giving control to God and focusing on and doing what He in that moment has given us to do! Love this!
“Trusting doesn’t mean sitting idle. It means giving control to God and focusing on and doing what He in that moment has given us to do!” I just wrote this down to be placed in few areas of my house/work. It is on y heart now more than ever to be in completely submission and surrender to God. I literally envision be “puppeted” by Jesus to do his work. Total submission doesn’t mean to be idle like a vegetable though. I love how your comment has helped me see the significance hold ACTION in submission/surrender.
God’s word is true. What He says will happen, will happen. God controls nature, it obeys Him. He is in control of all He has made. How much more of our own lives? I love God’s promise made not only to Noah and his sons, but also unto us and all living creatures, about never again destroying the earth with a flood.
Man’s heart, himself, can love the darkness, but until the Light steps in, will man continue doing his evil deeds. We’ve once loved darkness, but now we love the true Light – Jesus Himself. Thank You Lord for this great Light!
Something that I hadn’t thought of before was when Noah left the ark and immediately built an altar to sacrifice to the Lord, it has always been portrayed as an act of worship and thanks for sparing him and his family and restoring the earth. And I’m sure it was! But also, God had just sent 6 months of torrential flood and another 6 months of that water washing away the dead bodies, houses, etc of every living thing on the planet as it receded. I’m sure he was thinking “Oh pleasepleaseplease let your wrath be appeased!” Imagine Noah’s relief when God stated that not only had His wrath subsided, but that He would never flood the earth again. I’m sure Noah was terrified at the display of God’s power and took immense comfort in the promise of the rainbow. Noah needed the constant reminder of it being in the sky and God gave him that.
Something that really stood out to me was Noah’s obedience to The Lord. Nowhere do we read of him questioning God, which I admire and am seeking to be more like. I guess what I get caught up in is finding a balance between being obedient to God and being able to do something in a worldly sense. For example, during y upcoming summer break (I’m currently a college student) I’m wanting to work at a Christian day camp for children that has locations across the country, which I love and all the doors have been opened for this opportunity to even be an opportunity I can take advantage of. However, my mom is worried about how much I’ll get paid. I understand her wanting to make sure I’m financially sound, but my only concern is regretting not taking advantage of this ministry opportunity. I just want to go and do because I feel like this is something God has for me to do, but how can I be obedient like Noah while my parents aren’t exactly on board?
When I was in college I constantly struggled with the right thing to do vs the practical thing to do because you always want/need any extra money when you’re in college. However, in those years and up to my life now (I’m 27) I’ve realized more and more that God will indeed provide when you’re in need. So I say take the opportunity to do what God is calling you to do and do not worry about money because that will be taken care of. God does so many amazing things and takes care of those who are obedient. If you can hang onto that feeling and ideal, you’ll find yourself making decisions that grow your faith and make your heart and soul happy. Everything else comes after that :) good luck!
thank you so much for sharing this, I must make a decision today about something very important and it will mean cutting our monthly income short. I’m so scared but I know I have to trust in GOD and put him first.
No, it’s called CentriKid. I believe I’ve heard of Summer Shine before. If I can help you out in any way, let me know Ella! Praying for you as you seek this out and continue your walk with The Lord!
There’s a little phrase I’ve heard a million times, but I’ve found it to be true. “If God calls you to it He will bring you through it.” When God calls us to do something He already has all of your needs worked out. However, if your parents are godly people who are genuinely praying over this situation I always lean toward following your parents advice! Continue praying about it and God will reward your willing heart and obedience to Him and your parents. Blessings!
Amber, I have a son in college also. It has taken me sometime to accept the fact that he has a right to his decision, even if I might not agree with it. I have started the same approach with my 16 year old!
I am not saying to disrespect your parents at all! Listen to their advice, ponder if the money issue will leave you in a “debt” scenario or manageable… ultimately it is a decision between you & God. You can respectfully deny your parents wishes if it doesn’t align with God’s calling. Simple say “mom/dad, I love, I hear you, I understand…but have rationalized every aspect of this scenario, talked to God about it, and believe this is the path I need to take” (whatever that path may be).
Main thing is that you don’t act on a “feeling” only and create a debt scenario long-term. If that is not an issue, then the hard part is just standing on what you want to do & relaying that message to your parents. Will pray for you for discernment.
Thank you so much for the advice and encouragement, Moni! It’s so helpful to hear from a parent’s perspective! My parents are very futuristic thinkers/planners, and with the realization that I will be graduating next May with a theology degree from a private, Christian school means that I will have loans and maybe not always a job where I can pay them off at a certain rate has been at the forefront of their minds. I know I’m called to ministry and to serve Him the rest of my life, and my parents have really begun to be supportive/encouraging of it all, even though we all don’t exactly know what the future holds. This summer and the camp I want to work for is an opportunity that we realize is an open door that God has placed in my life while also not going to put me in a debt scenario. So we’re praying and trusting for God to not only provide in the financial aspect, but to provide peace and more discernment along the way. I REALLY appreciate your prayers and advice!
I love your spirit and your love for the Lord! Into our continued Bible study, Abraham is found replying to God a few times “here I am”… May you hear the voice of God just the same, and your reply to mirror his, “here I am”… (May we all work on replying the same too!) God will bless your obedience…and He created this universe… Therefore, He can certainly cover any extra expenses… I will check back later for possible updates on your amazing journey. Excited what He has in store for you… :))
I am seeking a little understanding here: In the footnotes it states that the quotes sometimes extend all the way to John 3:21. So how is Jesus himself telling Nicodemus “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son”?
It makes little difference if it is Jesus speaking these verses, or the apostle John. Either way, the truth remains the same: it is only through Christ that salvation can be attained. For it being Jesus, he specifically refers to himself as God and the Son of God so verses 16-21 would not be out of character. Further, he often speaks of the truth of his nature (as God) in hidden terms. He didn’t always directly state “I am the messiah,” but he alluded to it. He wants the truth of what he plans to do to be clear, but he also wants people (especially his disciples) to discover it for themselves (I.e. “Who do you say I am?”).
Nicodemus was a learned man and a biblical scholar. He could understand that through these verses (if spoken by Jesus), Christ is specifically labeling himself as God as he clearly knows God’s plan.
One thing that I thought about is the power of God. God created the entire world in 6 days and rested on the 7th. He then destroyed the entire earth just with flood waters. Flood waters so deep that even covered mountain tops. WOW! God is so indescribable!
John 3:30 “He must become greater; I must become less.”
This verse really stuck out to me while reading. So often I forget that in my life God should be my number one and I should put myself after him. With this new year, I will focus on putting God first in my life.
Why did Noah do this? May God extend Japheth’s territory; may Japheth live in the tents of Shem, and may Canaan be the slave of Japheth.” (Genesis 9:27 NIV)
It’s an example of the chosen nature of humans. Certain people were chosen by God. In this case, do to one son’s sin, he would no longer be equal to his brothers. In most studies, it is suggested that Canaan mocked his father or treated him inappropriately. Yes Noah sinned, but his son should have had respect for him and covered him in his sinfulness rather than reveling in it. Does this help?
This passage demonstrates that their are consequences for our sins (the one son mocking his father’s sin, rather than covering it). Also, it demonstrates how God has selected specific lineages for his purposes. Why did God choose Jacob over Esau? For his divine purpose. Why Japheth and Shem over Ham? His divine will.
I’m curious about something… When God banished the people from the earth in Noah’s time, that was before He had sent His Son to deliver us all from death and bring us eternal life… There wasn’t that same hope we have now. So what happened to those people? Were they sent to hell, or did they have a chance to repent and make things right with God? Or were they just done?
God chose us before the beginning of the world (Ephesians). Prior to the sacrifice of Christ and even before the sacrifice and temple system, those who turned to God and followed him could be saved. He is not an unjust God. He allowed for salvation by other means, however, it was not the perfect or complete salvation that we now have in Christ. But we can be certain that people could be saved even before Christ by looking at Hebrews (11 or 12…) as it is the “Faith Hall of Fame.” It is full of individuals from before Christ who were “counted as righteous” because of their faith.
Through Christ is the fulfillment f the Law. However, those who came before could be found righteous by their commitment to the Lord. Abraham did not know the savior, yet he knew God and was saved. Check out Hebrews 11 (might be 10..) which is often referred to as the Faith Hall of Fame. These individuals were counted righteous because they believed even though Jesus had not died yet. There was salvation before Christ, just his sacrifice was the ultimate payment. Now all we need do is look to Him. It is a more beautiful and complete sanctification!
It’s incredible that we were so undeserving of God’s love that He wiped the planet clean, yet He was holding on to His most amazing promise! Despite our sin. He would send His son to seek and save the lost! Jesus has always been the answer. What an amazing thing.
I am in the bed with the flu which has given me a lot of time to read all of your wonderful and insightful comments! Thank you for sharing! I don’t always take the time to read through them everyday so it was very special to me today!
I had never realized before that the waters of the flood came from both the rains from above and the waters below. I had always just imagined a lot of rain. It’s also hard to fathom the mountains being covered in water. I always feel so small when I’m vacationing in the mountains, and to think of them submerged in water blows my mind.
My husband and our family have just started going to church regularly and I had been wanting to read the entire Bible for the first time but found it overwhelming — I am so thankful for SRT and this community!
I am reading each day, and soaking up all of the wonderful comments and insight. God is good!
I found it interesting that “wind” and “spirit” are the same word in Greek…
Genesis 8:1 talked about how God sent a wind to blow over all the earth and the waters subsided. John 3:8 talked about how the wind blows all around us and how we feel/hear it but we do not understand where it came from…
This is what I learned: Life in the Spirit is as if it were the wind of God. He works as He pleases in His renewal of the human heart. If this is all true, then we will find beauty & strength in places we never imagined. Abiding in the Spirit is the good life. :)
I have raved to my husband about all that I am learning and have encouraged him to read the whole bible with me :) we are at such a low place with just losing my job and God just reminds us that there is light inspite of the darkness going on around us!
Same here! It says seven pairs of the approved (“the ones He has approved for eating and for sacrifice” it says in another version). But why seven of those and only one of the others? Seven is considered a holy number in the bible- completion and perfect.
According to my study bible, these animals (7 pairs) were the ones approved for eating and sacrifice for Noah and his family), the one pair animals were to repopulate the earth
The “unclean” animals would only have to reproduce themselves after the flood, but the “clean” animals would be needed also for the burnt offerings that Noah would sacrifice (see 8:20) and for food (see 9:3).
My husband and I woke up this morning stressed out above yet MORE unexpected bills that came in the mail yesterday. We were talking about what to do and stressing that even though we were being diligent with our finances and praying for wisdom it just did not seem that we would ever get out of this place. Then as I read this I was amazed at just how much waiting Noah did. He didn’t just move when he thought the earth was dry enough, or when he was sick and tired of being on the boat. He waited to hear from the Lord. But after all that waiting on the Lord, Gods first directive to them was “be fruitful and increase”, and then gave them dominion over the creatures of the earth. This really encouraged me as we sit and wait even though we want to continue to stress out and take matters into our own hands. I trust in His goodness and am determined to make it through this time of waiting with patience, praise and expectancy.
Waiting is not my strong suit. I loved this part of the Genesis account as well. What an example to follow on Noah of trusting and obeying and waiting well.
I’ve been recently dealing with the fact that I graduate from college in just a few short months and even though I will have my degree…I have NO idea where I’ going. I always thought there would be a bright shining light on my future pointing me every step of the way. However…I’m starting to realize God may wait until the last minute to give me direction. I’ve had to deal with the idea of patience as well as trust in God. A friend of mine tweeted a quote that really resonated with me. It said, “To be anxious declares to the world, ‘my God is not trustworthy.'” That hit me deep because I find myself telling God that I NEED to know certain things.
I felt as if today’s reading was just a reassurance of the idea that our God is trustworthy and that we need not worry because he has a plan in it ALL.
Noah had to patiently wait and follow direction as God instructed him to do something that seemed to him to be completely crazy at the time. John the Baptist preached in faith that the Messiah would come after him, and he patiently awaited his arrival comparing it to that of a bridegroom & describing the joy that comes with hearing the bridegroom’s voice.
Although I am terrified of what is ahead, I have to remember that God has proven that he is trustworthy time and time again.
Good word today SRT! And good word from you too Nicolette!
Keep holding to your faith in His plan. He sent me my first job what seemed to be late {I interviewed a few places and nothing was finalized until after graduation}; but that job opened up even bigger doors. And now, I have my dream job and know God gave it to me. He is good and worth leaning on!
Oh my sweet sister, your words echo my very own. I too am graduating from University in just a few short months and also have NO idea where or what my future holds. For someone who is a real planner and organizational freak, this is incredibly hard. The very thought of the unknown has left me crippled with fear and anxiety multiple times.
I know from looking back at my life that God is faithful and that He is trustworthy. I would not be at this very spot if it were not for Him. I know He has a plan that will prevail but I so very often find myself terrified from not knowing what that plan is. I find myself saying, “Okay God, I know You have it worked out, but I just need to know NOW.” But He does not work on our timing. He works in His, because it is better.
Your words were an encouragement to me, not only because they spoke much needed truth into my situation, but because it is comforting to know someone else is walking this very same path. Be blessed. I will be praying for you and may we continue to cling to truth through this time. He is Lord and He will never, ever leave us.
Ellie, I feel you! I just graduated university and still have no idea what I want to “do”. I’m working at a birth and women’s center as a secretary, but I know that’s not forever. My advice to you is the same that others have given to me: it does not matter what you do, as long as you are following God and glorifying Him in your work. You do not have to have it all figured out, because we are children of the One who DOES have it all figured out!
I really like “1 Then the Lord said to Noah, “Enter the ark, you and all your household, for you alone I have seen to be righteous before Me in this time.” Noah’s whole family & creatures of the earth were spared on Noah’s righteousness alone. How empowering & humbling is that??
I have a hard time reconciling “11 ‘I establish My covenant with you; and all flesh shall never again be cut off by the water of the flood, neither shall there again be a flood to destroy the earth.” With natural disasters today lien tsunamis… I realize these don’t affect all flesh or the whole earth, but they are still difficult for me to reconcile after reading a verse like this.
Glad you pointed that out – amazing what can happen when we humble ourselves and allow God to do his work. Who knows what the affect will be of our obedience!
I was struck with the Grace of God in Genesis 8:21 The Lord smelled the pleasing aroma and said in his heart: “Never again will I curse the ground because of humans, even though every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done.”
Note that humans’ inclination hasn’t changed from before the flood. God stays His hand and promises not to destroy even though we are still a sinful, hot mess. God’s commitment snd the gift of Jesus Redemption and His “making all things new” in Revelation 21:5 gives me unspeakable joy. “And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:5
John 3:21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. -Sometimes I need to dwell on this verse and remember that we are creatures of sin. While we are on this earth, we will never be completely free of it. But by the Grace of God we (He) can overcome it. Our sins cannot enslave us if we bring them into the light. As soon as we do, as soon as we stop hiding them in the deepest pit of our hearts, as soon as we bring that shame into the light; admit that it is real, we can begin to overcome it. The moment I realized that I couldn’t hide it and overcome it on my own. That moment was the turning point for me. This verse just sums it up for me. :)
These comments! Thank you ladies! My focus: He must increase, but I must decrease! (Vs 30) this has been pointed out to me again and again and yet I fall into my earthly ways and put myself first. But God can change that!
I noticed a contrast between Noah and Jesus (John 3) Noah was a righteous man God used but the world was condemned as a result….while Christ was one righteous man used by God to deliver all of the wicked world from condemnation….and I found it interesting that the condemned people in Noah’s time and our present time seem totally unaware or ignorant to their condition. :/ I feel I need to make more of an effort to share Christ with those who don’t believe in him. Did anyone else notice this or have thoughts to any other contrasts?
Wow that is an amazing observation!!! And it shows how love is more powerful than condemnation. Love brings the light more than condemnation. Love allows us to look into ourselves and see the sin, so we can humbly ask God to transform us. Ah I love it!
It always gets me in Genesis 9:18-29 when Canaan is cursed for his father’s sin. It doesn’t seem fair, and I tend to have a very fair and just way of thinking and viewing the world. I think that even if I don’t agree with someone else being punished for the sins of others, it is true. Sometimes other people’s actions affect me. More importantly, I can see that my actions affect others. The way I choose to live today could have an effect on the people around me and my descendants in the future. It puts some weight on the choices I make today knowing that I can’t just think about myself and how my actions affect me.
I think it also shows how powerful the things we speak about others (especially parents to children ) can be. To be cursed or blessed by someone is a common theme in scripture. I think it reminds us fair or not we have the gift/ability to bless others by what we speak…maybe Noah wasn’t thinking clearly since he hadn’t been sober….??? But once he said it he couldn’t take it back. What do you think?
I am reminded how we take certain things for granted, like the sighting of a rainbow! It is not just ‘a rainbow’. It is intertwined with such magnificence…
I never read John 3, like I did today. We can’t open anyone’s eyes. The Spirit is given in abundance!! Each person had to decide. Not my task to shove religion points to anyone, that is God’s job…and He doesn’t shove!
I also love where it says that the son of God didn’t come into the world to “condemn” us… Powerful to say the least! Most of us miss this point (at least I do!). The tendency to walk around in condemnation & defeat can be greater, than walking around in the actual truth! God sent His son to ~save~ us, plain & simple! If we receive it or not, each person decides…
Hiya! What I got was the fact that although Ham saw Noah naked (probably unintentionally) he brought shame to his father by speaking of it to his brothers and Noah punished him and his descendants (the Canaanites) for it! :)
Wasn’t it because he didn’t respect his father? Instead of covering him up and hiding his fathers shame from the others; he ran to show his brothers. The bible takes disrespecting our parents very seriously. There may be a different reason, but that is how I’ve always thought about it.
Maybe it’s because our parent child dynamic is supposed to be a picture of Gods parental dynamic with us. When we dishonor our parents we dishonor God :/ I’m trying to better learn from this even as an adult.
Two things this morning:
1. “But God remembered Noah …”. It’s been said before but the words “but God” have to be the best parts of Scripture. Wouldn’t it be fascinating to do a study of all of the times this phrase shows up?? They change the direction of life. They give hope to all who despair. “But God!”
2. The rainbow. Used by God as a symbol of His promise. We do this with wedding rings. It’s a picture of a great promise. God WANTED to make a covenant with people! That’s amazing. This God created the world out of nothing, and then used a flood to destroy most of it. His power is limitless. But He still wants to have a relationship with His creation. So thankful!
One of my favorite “But God” verses is 1 Cor. 10:13 “No temptation has come upon you except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out so that you may be able to endure it. ” I want to dig deeper into this!! Thank you.
Thank you ladies! Y’all’s comments always open my eyes to things I didn’t see or didn’t understand the first time around.
Today 2 things really stuck out to me Genesis 6:22 & 7:5. Noah did everything God/the Lord commanded. To have faith like that blows my mind. I am always such a questioner, you know “Lord really this what you want me to do, or are you sure Lord?” I want to be more like Noah and just be a doer no questions asked.
That stuck out to me too, Allyson! I find myself getting caught up in the “analysis paralysis” as my family calls it when it comes to decision making, especially with big decisions like internships and summer jobs (I’m currently a college student so every decision feels like a big one to me). But God has really been teaching me lately to stop questioning and just GO or DO! What faith Noah must’ve had!
John 3:30 is my prayer for life. ” He must become greater; I must become less.” Wow! That hit home because it’s something we all say and truly want for our souls, but it is written!
Verse 30 reminds us John knew that he was less than Jesus. I must also seal this in my heart. Our purpose is to be a servant for Christ, and we shouldn’t consider ourselves better than others. We are to be humble and to allow ourselves to be used by God.
True, yet also interesting is that when the complains were directed to Jesus about John, the reply came from John. He was not weak in his boasting, but confident. And understood that each of us have been assigned our own unique gifts…
I am struck in Genesis 8 where God says that ‘every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood…’ And yet in John 3 He sends His one and only Son. (3:16) he knows our heart condition- it has never changed since the flood- and His love for us is so great – He does all He can to provide for us – even giving up His only Son. Amazing grace and love.
That stood out to me today too Maribeth, and also in Gen 4:8. He knows how sinful, deceitful, hurtful we all are, but he sends His son because of His great love for us. How can that be?! God is really speaking to me about my sin heart and how I really have been thinking I didn’t have much. “EVERY inclination of the human heart is evil FROM CHOLDHOOD” (8:21b) Woe!
That’s a great connection between the two passages. I too and trying to read each passage with fresh eyes, trying to learn what God has to teach me. I love understanding the connections between the OT and NT. It’s beautiful how God has so faithfully kept his promises to us throughout time.
This is a section that is hitting me today too. We then see the reflection in John 3:19 … but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.
I have always heard that we are born pure and learn the ways of evil. But what I am seeing here is that no matter what, being born into this world corrupts us. And the real journey is to find the light, the truth and live in that. That is how God sees us and how we get to experience him.
I’m really enjoying the comments here. I’ve read these stories time and time again because of my history and I have a very hard time reading with fresh eyes. My prayer each day before I read is, “Give me fresh eyes to see more, to know You more.”
I love this… fresh eyes! You are right, most of us know these stories like the back of our hand. I am really having to slow down and not glaze over the details. For example, my heart broke when I read yesterday in Genesis that God regretted making mankind–that is huge! But God (how many times do we hear that wonderful phrase?!) had mercy and started over! I am overcome with such grace and love.
Genesis 8:1 seems to be a beautiful foreshadowing of Ephesians 2:4 “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,”
That simple phrase “but GOD” is a history shaper.
Thanks for pointing that out. Genesis 8:1 also reminds me that even when I may feel God has abandoned me after I take the leap of faith he has asked of me. I may not be able to see all that is ahead but I can rest assured that he has not forgotten me and that he promised all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Such a great reminder Claire! I also loved reading this verse, and connecting it with John 3 – God remembered us in the most beautiful way by sending his son to redeem us.
Thanks Claire for that insight – I needed to hear that! Find myself in a place where I felt forgotten by God after a leap- but I must trust-even when the the waters have not receded! He has not forgotten!
That phrase cut to my heart too! How awesome is it to know that the Spirit that lives in us is without limit? With God all things are possible, I just need to trust!
I love how it reveals that we share in His inheritance, it gives me hope when I look around at the mess the world is in, as my Pastor always says, this is the closest to hell we will ever be
Day 3 of reading through the Bible and I am already hooked and mesmerized!!! I pray that God will continue to let His Word illuminate each time I read it. I also pray that I keep the burning desire to read the history of the world as God orchestrated throughout time! Thank you She Reads Truth for prayerfully surrendering to God’s call to give us His Word and challenging us to read it for ourselves everyday!!
Yes this plan is a God-send for me as well. I was a bit afraid of reading through the book of Genesis because i’ve heard the story so many times before. I never realized how much it would teach me. And the comments. What a better way to study the bible than having other women of God read it with me, asking questions I would never have thought of and explaining things that were hard for me to understand. You Ladies will never know what an answer to prayer this is for me. :)
I’m so behind but one day at a time
I just started yesterday so you’re ahead of me haha
One day at a time. Catching up⭐️
such a testament of love❤️❤️❤️
playing catch-up right now because i missed a few days but i’m back! it was great reading about the first covenant but i’m still confused about the canaan part. if anyone understands it better and could help me out that would be amazing :)
Started a bit late but day 3 done✅
To this day I still get amazed at how long Noah lived! I often imagine what people back in bible times looked like as they lived for sooooo long. It amazed me!
I was thinking the same thing.In the old testament people lived such long lives.
Loved this! A fresh wind.
“He must increase, but I must decrease”.
Good and interesting ready today
Yes heard the same – Bible says when Noah realized what his son did to him’ speaks of an act. In the Torah it does explain it.
I think I remember reading something like that but same cannot remember where
The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear it’s sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from of where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” John 3:8. What a beautiful imagery representing the Holy Spirit!
I’ve always wondered this as well. The answer I was given is that it has to do with mockery. Instead of helping his dad he went out and talked about it with his brothers
I’ve always wondered this as well. The answer I was given is that Ava’s
I feel like it comes down to his son making him feel humiliated.
I feel like it comes down to his son making him feel
Very insightful Heidi. Thank you
@Claire Wolfe: I’m a pastor and I have a million questions about things in the Bible! In fact, the more I study, the more questions I have. I don’t think there is anything at all wrong with having questions, I think it shows that you are thinking about what you are studying, and that you trust God’s goodness to know that his love is not contingent on our understanding and agreeing 100% with everything we read in the Bible. I’d encourage you to seek out a trusted pastor or older sister in Christ (she may not be older than you in years but in her relationship with Christ). But know it’s ok to question what they say too! If this walk with our Lord was east it wouldn’t take us all a lifetime ;)
I’m a pastor and I have a million questions about things in the Bible! In fact, the more I study, the more questions I have. I don’t think there is anything at all wrong with having questions, I think it shows that you are thinking about what you are studying, and that you trust God’s goodness to know that his love is not contingent on our understanding and agreeing 100% with everything we read in the Bible. I’d encourage you to seek out a trusted pastor or older sister in Christ (she may not be older than you in years but in her relationship with Christ). But it’s ok to not
I feel like I’ve been questioning a lot of things in the Bible since 2022. I’ve been a believer for 8 years and i know God is true, but sometimes the questions can be really overwhelming. I encourage you to not let unknown answers disrupt your relationship with the king of kings. Because after many web searches about different topics, I find that my heart had begun to grown cold & bitter and i hadn’t even realized it. Because when we start valuing theology or exact facts over leaning into the mystery of who God is, we begin to lose who we are in the process and we become really skeptic people. I encourage you to seek answers because there are answers, but not for everything. I think if God wanted us to truly know all, we would. But isn’t that what faith & trust means? Leaning into the mystery. Hoping and believing in what you can’t fully see or know. I encourage you to despite every question, talk with God about your questions and love him. Everything else will fall where it needs to. All glory be to him.
I have so many questions.. some of genesis just doesn’t make sense and I’m no sure where it go to question this.. and is it wrong to question
Man Praise God! Vv. 15 “…creature that has breath of life came to Noah..” God sent the creatures to Noah and be obeyed. God have him a command and the mean to full full it. And Noah obeyed. Do I do the same? God ask of me and he equips me to fulfill what he ask. What a gracious God, he never leaves me stranded!
Here to encourage any lady who has been craving a fresh start with the Lord – He is with you always, and has never left. Stay close to Him!
I really think the things you pointed out are great things to consider
That is a very good point
In many cultures, mockery is a form of wickedness, disrespect, and/or disobedience. My thought is that because Ham was going to mock his father to his brothers, he was willing to disrespect the patriarch of the family which again in most cultures is the highest rank in the family hierarchy. Because Scripture stated that Noah was blameless in the sight of God, Noah was obviously obedient to God and understood the importance of being obedient, he was upset that his son had disregarded it so easily. If Ham could so easily be so careless with his earthly father, how then would he be with our Heavenly Father?
As for Canaan, I read at one time that the land Ham was given was in the modern day Turkey/Iraq region. Look at how this part of the world has always been in conflict. I think it was mentioned in Scripture, so that we can fast forward the story to see the history of what has transpired since then.
I hope this helps. May God bless you in your study of His Word.
In many cultures, mockery is a form of wickedness, disrespect, and/or disobedience. My thought is that because Ham was going to mock his father to his brothers, he was willing to disrespect the patriarch of the family which again in most cultures is the highest rank in the family hierarchy. Because Scripture stated that Noah was blameless in the sight of God, Noah was obviously obedient to God and understood the importance of being obedient, he was upset that he son had disregarded it so easily. If Ham could so easily be so careless with his earthly father, how then would he be with our Heavenly Father?
As for Canaan, I read at one time that the land Ham was given was in the modern day Turkey/Iraq region. Look at how this part of the world has always been in conflict. I think it was mentioned in Scripture, so that we can fast forward the story to see the history of what has transpired since then.
In many cultures, mockery is a form of wickedness, disrespect, and/or disobedience. My thought is that because Ham was going to mock his father to his brothers, he was willing to disrespect the patriarch of the family which again in most cultures is the highest rank in the family hierarchy. Because scripture stated that Noah was blameless in the sight of God, Noah was obviously obedient to God and understood the importance of being obedient, he was upset that he son had disregarded it so easily. If Ham could so easily be so careless with his earthly father, how then would he be with our Heavenly Father? As for Canaan
21But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”
This is one thing I love about John 3:16 too! That Jesus was speaking to a Pharisee. It adds a whole new layer to its meaning, in my opinion!
Also the verses that follow John 3:16 are just as poignant. I’ve never noticed how much so!
I wish to be just like Noah when it comes to his obedience. God told him what he needed to do, and Noah did it. Noah put his full faith and trust into God and obeyed. I feel like so often we want to be self sufficient and do things on our own. We need God, we need His guidance, Gods plan is always better than our own fleshy plans.
My understanding is that Ham intruded on Noah’s privacy and mocked him, therefore Ham broke his trust and disrespected Noah. Then he went on to tell his brothers to do the same sins. Since Ham was Noah’s son, Noah in turn cursed Ham’s son to bring shame to Ham.
My understanding is that Ham basically mocked Noah, and encouraged his brothers to mock him also.
I was also wondering the same thing.
I’m confused why Noah was drunk and cursed his son and Canaan, did I misinterpreted that?
It’s amazing that Noah obeyed everything that god has said and now he was seen high in the eyes of the lord. Hope, I be the same and praying for that
He must increase I must decrease. ❤️
Noah was obedient to the Lord and I pray that I am being obedient when the Lord tells me to do something. the rainbow is a sweet reminder of how God always keeps His promises!
John 3:16 is one of my fav verses. it’s so deep. thank you Lord for loving us so much. loving me so much that You would send your Only Son down to save us so that we could have a relationship with You and live forever with You in Heaven.
Noah was obedient to the Lord and I pray that I am being obedient when the Lord tells me to do something. John 3:16 is one of my fav verses. it’s so deep. thank you Lord for loving us so much.
“As long as the earth endures,
seedtime and harvest, cold and heat,
summer and winter, and day and night
will not cease.” – Genesis 8:22
It’s amazing that one of the most popular verses (John 3:16) was spoken to a Pharisee, and the context of that verse is so rich!
Yea we just watched that episode the other day!
For he came not to condemn the world but that the world through him might be saved.
He who comes from Heaven is above all!
‘For everyone who does evil hates the light and avoids it, so that his deeds may not be exposed.’ – John 3:20
30He must increase, but I must decrease.”
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Anyone reading this think of the scene in The Chosen with Jesus speaking to nicodemus ??
16“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life”
God is good!
Thank you Jesus
The Lord requires purity- grateful to have Christ intercede for me!
“He must become greater; I must become less.” John 3:30
Amen✨
Everything we are and have is because the Spirit of God is on us
Amen!
Yes agreed 100%
This lockdown is not from God. These tyrants that are demanding the lockdown are not Godly men. Don’t get the story of Noah twisted
I had the same question! I looked it up and from my understanding, the reason he cursed Canaan and not Ham was because the Lord had previously put a blessing on Ham. He cursed him because instead of quickly looking away from his dad’s nakedness and covering him up, he went out and gossiped to his brothers about it. This curse is prophetic and the Lord was using it to set the path for Canaan as we see them as an active participant throughout the old testiment. Without this curse the relationship between Israel (descendants of Shem) and Canaan may have looked very different. This is why even though to US it may seem like a dramatic curse, it was the Lord using it to further the story that leads to the gospel! Also remember, if Noah was that drunk, he was probably still feeling it in the morning when he gave the curse, which could explain why it seems like an awfully dramatic response to what Ham had done. BUT this shows how God is completely sovereign AND gracious. He can use even our sin (Noah’s drunkenness) to further the gospel.
reading this really reminds me that sometimes when we see bad, we have to know that there is a reason. truly holding God in our heart and accepting everything is hard. but even in the bad, i have to know that God is working on me in my life in ways i may not know right away
My mind is stuck on Noah’s obedience. This makes me see this lockdown in a completely different perspective!
Can someone help with interpretation? Gen 9:25 when Ham sees Noah’s nakedness & tells his brothers who then lay clothes on Noah. Noah then curses Ham’s son, Canaan. Why did Noah curse Ham/Canaan anyway? Was it because Ham has informed his brothers aka talking about Noah’s nakedness to them without Noah knowing? But didn’t they help by clothing Noah? Thanks in advance!! Just a little confusing for me
I love the story of Noah and how he obeyed God’s commands. I can’t help but feel like God is calling out to our country for obedience.
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We are amazed by human birth, the miracle of physical life! I just had my baby in November. But in John 3, Jesus elevates spiritual birth even more. When He changes a life and forgives sin, it’s even more mysterious and miraculous!
Joy, I agree, if only the wold saw it like that
Good word♡
It’s interesting to read about Noah in lockdown as many of us are in lockdown now in order to keep safe!
Thinking of our lockdown situation similar to Noah in the ark, the same God will keep us safe just as he did many years ago, because Jesus is the same yesterday, today & forever.
Your comment reminded me of 1 Corinthians 4:7
He > i
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Done with day 3
Got my reading in before I went to bed tonight after moving 4 hours away today!!!
in awe of Gods faithfulness, attention to detail and love
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Genesis 7:16 And the LORD shut him in.
Praising God today for shutting us all in when we trust and obey. He is so faithful!!
✔️day 3! ❤️
Amen! He hasn’t forgotten or left us. He has been here all along.
I had not either. After hearing this story my whole life that never has been clear. I also find it interesting that the dove was used to fulfill God’s promise of the end of the flood too.
I keep thinking about the way Noah was so obedient and patient. It’s no wonder God was pleased with him.
I love the verse of John saying I must decrease so He increases
Such a good reminder that Jesus did not come to condemn but to save the world through him! Loved reading these passages today. Day three done! ❤️
“14And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” Love this so much. Such an easy way to explain the gospel to others.
It struck me that some of the animals on the ark were there solely to become a burnt offering to God after they departed the ark. I hadn’t thought of that before.
I loved that John used the example of the “best friend” standing beside the Groom and so happy for him as he marries his bride (the Church)
This was such a great analogy.
“Other people are children of God, not just me” WOW loved seeing this after today’s reading, what an amazing way to put it
God came to seek & save the lost, not to condemn.
I tried and failed to read the Bible in a year last year. But with this, I am looking forward to getting it done!
So many good take-a-ways from these passages. Have read all before, and it definitely helps to have a study Bible to reference and the comments from other SRT ladies. Love the community of other readers!
I never realized John was the one that said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” It was cool to catch that today.
Yes, same! I was reminded of the past (almost) year consisting of lockdowns and major changes to our lifestyles. Even after nearly a year in the ark, God remembered Noah! Surely He remembers us wherever we are as well.
He must increase and I must decrease, what a beautiful thing to say to Jesus. John is such an example to us.
I totally agree he such an amazing person
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. ❤️
Day 3 done. Love reading about God’s promise.
God shut the door when Noah and everyone loaded up the ark. I never thought about who or how the door was shut. God is God over small details!
I love that God has fulfilled his promise to Noah and us that he would never again destroy the earth. It shows that he keeps his promises.
I’m not sure, but I was wondering the exact same thing!
He must increase, so I must decrease. Powerful words from John. I pray the same for myself, more of you Lord and less of me. Help me to realize that it’s always been about you.
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I feel like the Old Testament and the the New Testament passage in today’s and yesterday’s passage both have a common theme of God’s provision for his people and his love despite our sin. ❤️ Shows the nature of God’s heart for us and loved seeing the parallel of new and old back to back.
Not sure why replies pop to the top! Oops!
Yes this was how I interpreted it too
Day 3❤️
Day 3✅
Thanks for sharing out! You helped me to see that passage more fully! ❤️
I never really thought about the fact that it rained for 40 days but they were on the ark for 150 days.
I found this passage a rather difficult passage to grasp my head around. But after continued reflection and looking at the comments I feel I now have a better understanding
Wow I hadn’t thought of it like that thank you!
Loved today’s passage! Noah’s sons covering the shame of their father rather than exposing it is just like Jesus with us ~ how stunning is grace extended!
day 3:))) I really love what Brittany had to say about today’s reading. i agree completely. I had a hard time fully understanding today’s reading but after reading some comments, devotionals and analyzing further, i think i have a better understanding of the verses today:)
I agree! I would love to just like those comments that I agree with or felt help me. Something for the app developers to look at in future.
Day 3 done- it was hard for me to see a clear overall message from the passages but there were bits and pieces I was able to take and put meaning to. I enjoyed reading the passages about John and Jesus both baptizing. John had spent so much time being in the spotlight that when Jesus started to become popular, someone else felt the need to tell John- it almost seemed like he was trying to instigate a turf war between John and Jesus. Instead, John is humble and says that he was never truly the one in the spotlight but that it has always been the lord.
I have never been baptized- in fact I am at the beginning of my spiritual relationship with god. Reading this makes me excited to be baptized one day and to have my children baptized as well so we can have eternal life in heaven.
Day 3 done
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Love you Father ❤️
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Late start here but it is amazing how much of John 3 is neglected. People love quoting John 3:16 but ignore the rest. So much truth❤
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Loving this app and the chance to share in community through these digital discussions with my sisters in Christ!
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Day 3 ✅
Day 3✅
I wish you could like messages in here!!!
Day 3 ✅
Love this app ♥️
me too!
I love this app!! It makes reading the Bible so convenient and simple!!
A bit behind, but catching up!
Baptism ,to be born again has been on my mind a lot over the last few years. Today’s reading cemented that idea that I need to be baptised when I’m ready.
When I was very young, my parents got divorced and this resulted in a lifestyle in which I didn’t attend church like I should. My mom loves Jesus but for whatever reason did not make it a priority to take me and my siblings to church. When I was a freshman in high school, I found God speaking to me like never before, and I really wanted to be baptized. I felt like I couldn’t get baptized because I wasn’t a consistent member at any church. I eventually was baptized, and I truly believe that it is an important part of showing your faith to God; however, I think it’s also important to remember that being baptized does not MAKE anyone a Christian. I love remembering the fact that I have Jesus in my heart and that is what will get me to Heaven one day, not me being baptized. So if you are struggling with that, I offer you comfort and hope that helps!!!
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Today’s message is definitely what I needed in my time rebuilding my faith. A great reminder.
“Truly truly I say unto you unless a man is born of water and spirit he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Such a clear picture of water baptism and spirit baptism❤
Grace Cox the flood is the reason God needed to send his Son. The flood shows the consequences of sin are death. God hates sin and it seperates us from him. Jesus came in our place to die on our behalf so we didn’t have to. God knows our human nature is evil, he even allows his own Spirit to live inside us if we are to accept the gift so our human nature can be replaced by His God nature. I hope that helps answer some of your questions.
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In him I am made new. Born again. Truly alive.
Why did Noah curse Ham’s generations to be servants whenever it was all of the brothers who covered his nakedness when he was drunk? (Genesis 9)
Hey Lexi!!!!! I was wondering the same thing!! I hope you’re well:) so good to see you on here!!
Also maybe because he went and got his brothers, drawing attention to his fathers state instead of going in and covering him himself quietly. Maybe? What are others thoughts?
I was wondering this as well
I was always told that it was because he saw him and then went and told of it instead of quietly covering him before anyone else saw him.
Adam and Eve were ashamed of their nakedness with God, I think Ham was cursed because what he did shamed Noah. Ham was the only one who saw him naked, his brothers walked backwards so as not to see Noah.
Ham dishonored Noah by telling his brothers of the drunkenness and nakedness! The brothers did the right thing to honor their Father by not looking on his nakedness
From some preachers sermons on this, I’ve heard that there is something implied that Ham had actually done something sexual to Noah. Massbible.org. Has a post on this. It’s kind of a long read but it gives you so much cultural and time context.
I think you’re right from what I’ve studied.
Same. I read a lot online after I read this chapter and I’m pretty sure he did something sexually which is why Noah knew it when he awoke.
I’ve done some studying from commentaries and they seem to believe ham slept with Noah while Noah was passed out drunk. If you study hams descendants this seems to fit the picture because of rampant homosexuality (sodom and Gomorrah)
When I first became a believer and started reading the Bible all the way through I got stumped here. The punishment didn’t seem to fit the crime. But if you study older commentaries it does fit with the sexual aspect
I am enjoying reading John as I have been baptized recently. Actually last Sunday! It jumps off the pages to me and brings my baptism full circle. I must decrease so he can increase.
“He must increase, but I must decrease.” Day 3✔️
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My prayer is for God to become greater and for me to become less.
I love “he must increase and I must decrease” might be my verse for the year, very fitting for myself.
3-362 but I found out it’s a leap year so add one more more day
Day 3. He must increase and I must decrease! My daily prayer ❤️
“Whoever believes in him is not condemned… But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” (John 3:18a, 21)
We have been given the Light of the world, and how beautiful it is that (if we live according to His purposes) we can one day hear that our works have been carried out in God!
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I will work on being obedient from this day forward.
I often wonder why God didn’t just use his power to spare Noah and his family without Noah building the arc… I mean he has the power to allow them to live. And it hit me like a ton of bricks this morning that Noah was displaying his obedience, not that I think God was necessarily testing Noah to see if he had the will to go through with building this extravagant arc, but I do believe God blesses those who are obedient to him. And that is exactly was Noah portrayed.
Yes! Obedience I love how you worded this ❤️
The ark was a beautiful symbol of Christ in salvation. He saved Noah and his family just as Christ saves us.
I love this viewpoint. Very true!
I also wondered at God’s approval of Noah and disapproval of others. How does he feel at my disobedience and sin? He has not changed nor has man
I love the way Noah listens. He was human so I am sure he doubted but he didn’t let his fear or doubt stop him. It reminded me that I might be an over thinker but I can’t let that stop me from what God has planned for me
He must increase and I must decrease….Amen
This was one thing that really stood out to me too!
Yes! Amen!
I have found that I am one of the people who do not believe when God shows his testimony here on earth (John 3:10-12) My job will be to increase that belief through obedience in God’s word and cultivating my relationship with the Holy Spirit. I so identify with this verse in John about believing God’s earthly testimony!
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I agree with those who’ve mentioned how John the Baptist is a great example of showing that the story is about Jesus, and not about us. I love the picture of being “the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, [and] rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice.”—v. 29 One of the best days for me was being able to stand next to my friend at her wedding and being able to rejoice and celebrate her that day. May I be a “bridesmaid of Jesus”, standing with him and celebrating him, instead of making it about me.
Great point Laura!!
So once we believe in the Son (John 3:36), what is God’s expectation of us afterwards? I know I can’t “work” out my salvation or even do things for Him in thankfulness, but how should I live day-to-day? Love Good and love people?
I just try to remember this verse. It’s a good start. 1 Corinthians 16:14
14 Let all that you do be done in love
Yes those are the two greatest commandments! Love god and others… I also like to think of the fruits of the spirit are examples of living like Christ… or a way of constantly being transformed into his likeness- not a striving- but of sound heart and mind- to live in gentleness, patience, kindness, self-control, love, peace, joy and faithfulness …
“He must increase and I must decrease”. I think I found my verse for 2020!
Love it! This is the reason I decided to start this particular plan and a bible study group on Facebook to help keep me accountable. :)
I was reminded that I should not be surprised by sin. Noah was surrounded by sin and then the waters to clean out the sin. John likens sin to darkness. People prefer the dark because otherwise their sin is exposed in the light. May I be transparent and in light to keep me from sin and darkness!
I love this. We need to be transparent and light-loving people!
Day 3! John is an amazing example of unrelenting dedication to what he knew to be true. Jesus is the only way.
I have a habit of reading scripture and seeing what it’s saying about me or how it can relate to me, but I think God spoke to me today to instead focus on what it says about Him. A couple that jumped out to me in John – God LOVES! and God is TRUE! I also thought in genesis how the scriptures speak to God’s desire for order.
Praying for all you sisters right now. May we remain in Him this year as we diligently read his Word, and do it out of love and a desire to be close to Him, and not out of a spirit of obligation. ♥️
Amen to that- and not get discouraged if you are running on obligation a day or two, just keep on and pray for that love and desire to overcome you again. ♥️
Love how John spoke that He must increase and I decrease. He >I
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Love the contrast between how God uses water in these two passages; first the flood and then baptism.
Love that comparison! Also, notice that when the dove did not find dry land, that Noah waited 7 days before sending it back out, (7is the number of perfection) signifying that God’s timing if perfect and Noah recognized that.
Thanks for pointing that out!
I love that comparison! I didn’t even recognize that until you pointed it out! Thank you!
I cannot imagine being Noah. Wow!
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Dang we really did God dirty to have him wipe the whole earth
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He must increase and I must decrease. Great reminder for everyday.
I just pray that God continues to show himself to me throughout my readings & help me stay on track.
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rainbow yuh
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Day 3 complete ❤️
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As long as you believe in Jesus he will be their for you. We have to follow in his ways in order for greater things to come. He made man in his image and then darkness took over. Whenever we are going through a tough time or just having a good day we have to remain in love, in light, in prayer and in his word.❤️
Whenever I read about the Great Flood, I think about how the massive power would have drastically changed the earth. Mountains would be pushed up, canyons would be carved, forest would be petrified, creatures fossilized. Which is exactly what we find on earth and the fossil record.
I love this view point!!
That is a beautiful way to think about it!
Reading this has reminded me how we forget that we have the Lords forgiveness. No matter what I do if I truly wish to change the Lord our God is always there ready to welcome my soul and wash me clean.
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John 3:30 “He must increase, and I must decrease.” This is such a beautiful verse and something that I desperately need help with. Would someone please pray that I have the strength to change my ways in order to hallow God’s name throughout the Earth? Thank you!
I didn’t catch that reading through it the first time those words are hard to hear but I have to trust they are true and right
John 3:16 ❤️ the most important part of our story on Earth. Can someone please explain to me the story of Noah cursing Canaan? The actions of the sons seem good-willed… so why was Noah so upset? Ham did not purposely see his father naked, but he was punished for it? Any insight would be helpful!
I was wondering the same thing…
I’m new at reading the Bible and was wondering the same thing. But rereading it,
22And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father and told his two brothers outside.
Didn’t Canaan see the father (Ham) and then told his brothers, who were the ones to cover there father (Ham) up, not Canaan. So Canaan technically gossiping?
Hi there are many ideas on this but it’s speculated that the line of Canaan was cursed. It’s a complicated answer and I would recommend searching the Blue Letter Bible for more detail. Happy Resurrection Day!
I asked a friend and he said: If we see people of God going through something we don’t have to expose them. Which Ham did cause he went and called, his brothers to see (expose) his father.
Ham could have cover his father without letting other know but he chose to expose him.
Ham telling his two brothers was the mistake. By telling, he shamed his father. The brothers’ response was appropriate. Ham should have covered his father like his brothers had. Jen Wilkin, in her study on Genesis, God of Creation, does a really good job at explaining all of this. Highly recommended!
I cannot imagine how scared Noah’s family must have been to see the rain and get on the boat knowing what the Lord had told Noah about flooding the earth. I admire their faithfulness and how much they trusted the Lord.
Having trust in the Lord may be the most difficult, yet rewarding thing one may do. Whether that be with Noah trusting in the Lord, or Jesus trusting him and leading others among himself, they both are great examples of this.
The fact that Noah built an offering and an alter to the Lord as his first act on Earth after the flood is an amazing testament to his faith!
Agreed. Applies to us all. Our plans our wishes…must decrease so Gods will and purposes can increase. So hard…so true.
Amen!
I agree! He need to be first as well as our relationship with him increase and grow through him everyday!
8The wind blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you don’t know where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
I love that. When I hear the Holy Spirit I need to stop and listen. I need to pay more attention to those winds in my spirit to see if it is the Holy Spirit.
John 3:12 “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” Wow.. this verse really stood out to me because I feel like it’s so true. Some people don’t think God can do even simple earthly things, so they can’t even fathom what he’s actually capable of.
I REALLY admire Noah’s faith. The story of the ark makes me in awe and wonder of what that would have been like. Johns love for Jesus and his reverence for Him is something I want to resemble. “He must increase and I must decrease.”
“God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him” (John 3:17). He came to save. To rescue. To redeem. To restore. Condemnation was the default. Jesus came to break the bondage and overturn our death sentence. Because of Him, we are free!
Day 3 catching up today!
I’m so glad I heard about this app. I’ve been wanting to read the Bible for so long and this is an easy way for me to do it before bed at night. It’s my first time reading a Bible that isn’t for children so I’m a bit confused on the order of how it goes
I was reading this in my physical Bible which has interpretations and things and I read that the Hebrew word for wind is “ruakh” which also is translated as spirit. so in Genesis 8:1 when God blows wind over the earth to subside the waters, He was blowing His spirit over the earth and all things of the earth. That hit me so hard because Noah was obedient and patient for over a year, and finally God blew His spirit over the earth and allowed Noah and everyone on the ark to disembark safely. We need to remember this, that when God isn’t answering our prayers immediately, there is a reason. He is waiting to blow His spirit over that season of your life so that He can let you out of that season safely, just as He did for Noah ❤️
Amazing! I needed to read your words! Thank you!
Beautifully said! And thanks for the reminder to read along in my Bible as I can for these added features!
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Amen ❤️
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Wow. What a beautiful analysis.
John 3:30 hit me like a slap in the face. Feel like God was leading me to that exact verse right now.
Sometimes, when we’re in a bad place, God will flood us with love so we can be reborn. I needed this tonight.
I believe that the rain God sent to the earth was his tears of disappointment at what mankind had become from what he started with Adam and Eve to Noah’s time
I am new to this so please bear with me! I am having a little trouble fully understanding why God would want to bring a flood to kill off everything He created because they have evil in them. But reading on, I see he then says he will never do it again after smelling the aroma. Did he come to love all living things even with sin after smelling the offering, thus allowing us to sin and He loving us anyway?
The best way I can put it is this— God (before Jesus) saw that the people on earth were not following his word or were using the Bible to do bad things. God then started over by sending Jesus so spread what was most important-Love.
I questioned this too and asked many people to explain this to me
Hi Gabriela! You have to remember that the people before the flood didn’t just have a little evil in their hearts, they were continuously doing evil. It wasn’t a little mean joke here or there, we’re talking slander, maliciousness, murder, rape. The worst thing you can think of, that was them. Every single intention of their hearts were evil (Genesis 6:5) there was ABSOLUTELY no good. Except Noah.
Fast forward, they get off the boat and Noah makes an offering to God of only clean animals. The clean sacrifice was what was pleasing to God. 1) A sacrifice can’t be made if there’s nobody to make it and 2) by Noah making that sacrifice, it shows that there is yet a remnant who still loves God and aren’t rushing to do evil. To honor that righteous remnant, if you will, God made a covenant with Noah, his sons, and the folks that would come from them. I hope that makes sense!
Hey Gabriela! I just read your question and I first want to reassure you that God is not scared by questions, and it’s okay to have them! I’m so happy that you are willing to ask them to this community :) now, to answer your questions, much like everyone else has said: the world was evil at the time of Noah. Nobody did right and none but Noah worshipped God.
When God made the promise to never flood the Earth again, it wasn’t because he suddenly decided to start loving mankind despite sin. It was because he decided that he would never again punish the earth because of mankind’s sin, and he wouldn’t repeat the flood later.
16Those that entered, male and female of all flesh, entered as God had commanded him; and the Lord closed it behind him.
36‘He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”
Obedience is important!
I love the picture of the Lord closing the ark behind Noah…what a caring Father!
What does this verse mean?
You shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood. 5And for your lifeblood I will require a reckoning: from every beast I will require it and from man. From his fellow man I will require a reckoning for the life of man.
Is it simply saying that humans shouldn’t eat humans? Sorry for the silly! But curious! :)
Hi Mellanie! I think it’s more to do with the blood of the animals, (and humans too) that it was considered unclean to eat the blood of an animal, or rather to eat an animal who’s blood hadn’t been drained, under the old covenant. Until the new covenant arrives in Acts and it is revealed to Peter what was considered unclean to eat to be clean. Does that make sense?
Hi, yes, thank you!!
Thank you. I was wondering the same thing!
Could anyone explain how there is God saying he won’t hurt the ground because of man, but we suffer so much deforestation and global warming and plastic in oceans? Is it because of the sin of man? Not an attack or anything, just looking for some clarification!!
That’s a good thought! I definitely believe it’s because of our sinful nature as humans. He promised not to flood the earth again, but didn’t promise that we wouldn’t deal with the consequences of our own neglect of the world (deforestation as a result of our need for more energy, paper, etc., global warming from aerosols and other chemical emissions, and plastic in the oceans simply because of the amount of waste that currently takes up space on earth). He did provide us a Savior through which those things could be redeemed! He’s given a lot of men and women the abilities to create new ways to help take care of the planet, for which I’m so grateful!
I think that He just means that he won’t curse the ground to the extent that he did when he sent the Flood. When He sent the flood he intended to destroy everything on the Earth. Now, he sends various forms of natural disasters, allows pollution, etc., but we know He continues to love us in Christ and refrains from destroying all of creation. I hope that helps :)
This may be a silly question- but what does it mean for sea creatures? They weren’t collected by Moses- and one would assume that they would survive the flood. Does anyone know anything about this?
I was thinking the same thing. I think its interesting because we have only discovered a fraction of the sea and sea life. And I personally think this means most sea life survived the flood and that’s why we have some creepy looking things in there!
It’s great to see that even though some of us are behind schedule that we haven’t given up and are pressing on. Way to go!!
Praying for everyone that He would reveal Himself and deepen our faith as we immerse ourselves in scripture.
Day 3 completed. Lord please reveal yourself to me through your word!
Love your thoughts on this!
What did the son do wrong in genesis 9:4?
Do you mean 9:24? Maybe in seeing his fathers nakedness, rather than covering him- he went to tell his brothers about a humiliating situation ?
This really struck me too. Often as Cgristian
This really struck me too. Often as Christians we are so quick to expose others sins and weaknesses we see (even just by drawing in our brothers And sisters in Christ) where truly we may be called to cover them and love the person quietly through their transgression. I don’t know for a fact how would this look like in a church today? Or with our spouses? May God give us wisdom and insight on how to quietly cover those around us who are exposed and to honor Christ in our dealings with sins and the sins of others. Amen
I’m the exact same way! It’s such a big help!
John 3:30 “He must become greater and I must become less.
I love reading everyone’s comments after I have read the scripture for the day. It really helps me understand more of what I read and also pull things from scripture that I did not see myself.
Thank you God. I love u
I love the promise of God to not destroy people or the land again and that the rainbow is a reminder for himself really. That’s pretty interesting!
John 3:10-12 Jesus can be so sassy:) I feel as though through his perfection we sometimes overlook his humanly characteristics and its those characteristics that make me feel so much closer to him
I always love these moments in scripture! Im glad someone else thinks this way too!
I am drinking this truth up trying to not rush through lines to check this off my list, but truly ask God to reveal himself to me.
Thankful for the reminder that the gospel is not just the entry into being a believer but it is everything. Jesus is the beginning, middle and end. He gives his children the spirit without measure that we may walk in power. I am not condemned by my sin, but He is faithful to his covenant and faithful to forgive me as I walk in the light.
Can anyone explain to me exactly what happened with Noah and Caanan? Did he just see him naked? I want to analyze that part of the passage more thoroughly and figure out why Noah was so angry
The way I took it was Ham saw him naked and ran to tell the other brothers rather than covering him or helping him, while the two brothers came in backwards and covered him without looking. So I think he was angry that Ham didn’t help but just spread gossip.
I feel especially inspired and moved by today’s readings. Love this journey to my faith.
I love John 3:8. Really helps with my comprehension of exactly how difficult it can be to understand salvation.
John 3 is such a powerful passage. I love the information and Jesus’s word that is shared here. A good passage to remember to read j times of doubt
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Me too
John 3:30 left me breathless WOW!! Such a simple line but I love it!
Day 3 ✔️.
Praying that I may become the kind of faithful servant that John and Noah were, and that I may work to spread God’s word to others.
Day 3 done
The story of Noah… such a promise
I love my father almighty wonderful creator
Why is Canaan punished instead of Ham? Is the punishment because Ham saw Noah naked? And for telling his brothers?
Canaan descends from Ham, so it is a long term punishment of a whole people group.
Yes. He dishonored his father.
I was wondering the same thing! Thanks for asking
I love reading all of these comments. Sometimes, as believers in an unbelieving world, we can feel alone or as if we there are only a few of us out there. It’s so encouraging to read all of your thoughts. I feel like I’ve found another community of believers! Please continue to share :)
Hi Vanessa! I agree I love reading the comments and knowing I’m not alone. I feel like I have accountability partners to keep me diligent in my reading this year :)
Hi Vanessa! I agree I love reading all the comments on here. It makes me feel like I have accountability partners to keep me diligent in my reading this year! :)
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I think I’ve read genesis about 20 times now… but I always notice something new each time.
John 3:16…..what a beautiful verse telling of His love for us and making a way for us to be saved!
I often find myself reading and rereading (sometimes feeling inadequate) when I do not understand the messages being portrayed in the Bible. That being said, I was in awe while reading how Jesus was able to so simply explain the concept of being born again to Nicodemus. The connection between the wind the spirit has stuck with me most today!
You are not alone, and you are NOT inadequate. You are a child of God and He so loves your devotion to Him and hearing His word! Remember that you are making the efforts to do the reading and putting in the work and that is what truly matters. But if you really want to know what is being said and understand it better going to church has helped me enormously. I spend hours talking with my Reverend and she helps me understand what I do not and answers all of my endless questions.
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What happed at the end with Noah being naked? I didn’t understand what it was saying.
He cursed the son who saw him in his nakedness but blessed the others. It’s an explanation of why later God gives the land of Canaan over to the Israelites (who descend from Shem)
Yay! Me too!
I never realized how long they were in the boat. The logistics of the ark having windows, feeding the animals, scooping poop intrigues me. Haha!
Yeah me either! That was neat to see how long they were on there and it also tells us how God can keep us in his hands❤️
I didn’t either! But I find it confusing that in the same story it references that rain will fall for 40 days and 40 nights…then talks about after 150 days the water abated. And then after 40th night Noah opened the door of the ark.
I’ll never look at a rainbow in the same way again, but will thank God for it and his promise from now on.
When I first started reading the Scripture for today, immediately I thought about Noah’s age. He was over 600 years old when the Lords promise was carried out. Noah worked for years and years with the confidence that the Lord told him to build the ark. He didn’t stop. And the Lord came through with what He spoke to Noah, though it was yearssssss later. It’s such a beautiful reminder that the things the Lord has spoken will be carried out to completion, just maybe not in our timing.
Never thought about it like this! Love it
I love your sentiments so much that I wrote them down! Thank you, Taylor.
YES!
Does anybody else feel a bit freaked out about animal sacrifices? I guess I don’t understand why God would ask people to kill creatures that he had made and why death had to be a punishment for any sin. Do you guys take those stories literally or no? I would call them figurative, but then, that would be saying Christ’s death was figurative which I don’t believe. I hope this makes sense. Interested to see what y’all think.
This might help: https://www.gotquestions.org/animal-sacrifices.html
God required animal sacrifices to provide a temporary covering of sins and foreshadow the perfect and complete sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Animal sacrifices have ended because Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice.
God required animal sacrifices to provide a temporary covering of sins and to foreshadow the perfect and complete sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Leviticus 4:35, 5:10). Animal sacrifice is an important theme found throughout Scripture because “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). When Adam and Eve sinned, animals were killed by God to provide clothing for them (Genesis 3:21). Cain and Abel brought sacrifices to the Lord. Cain’s was unacceptable because he brought fruit, while Abel’s was acceptable because it was the “firstborn of his flock” (Genesis 4:4-5). After the flood receded, Noah sacrificed animals to God (Genesis 8:20-21).
Thanks to Adam and Eve death is already the consequence for sin. The death of an animal is just a temporary covering for that sin. It also foreshadows Christ’s sacrifice. Ultimately it is faith that saves though. Paul talks about this in Romans.
I never noticed how the flood story mirrors and echoes the creation and fall story. The creation of a new earth, if you will, followed by the command to multiply, followed by consequences of the taking of a life (reminder of cain there) and finishing with Noah being naked and shamed. No matter how many times God could want to start over, we don’t change because of the sin from the fall. The story replays itself over and over again. This is why we have the gospel. God so loved the world He sent his son to die to save it. Instead of destroying sinful humanity again in another flood, He died. Hallelujah!
Wow. Thanks for sharing this insight!
Amazing. I never thought of it this way. Thank you, Ingrid!
I never noticed how the flood story mirrors and echoes the creation and fall story. The creation of a new earth, if you will, followed by the command to multiply, followed by consequences the taking of a life (reminder
Done!!
I am somewhat confused about Genesis 9:21-27… why is Noah cursing Ham and Canaan?
Noah was being exposed and mocked by Ham. You can think of it in a way of “God chose this guy, appointed this guy over us and look he’s drunk. He is a fool, a drunk” when in reality by mocking Noah he is mocking God’s decision of appointing Noah. It is common in this time to curse the first born son because that is where all of the fathers inheritance goes. Therefore he mocked Ham’s son Canaan.
From the context it’s because Ham saw Noah’s nakedness and didn’t cover him but instead he went and told his brothers. It sounds very disrespectful to Noah. Almost like ham was making fun of him. But Noah blesses his other 2 sons because they covered Noah and did so backwards indicating they didn’t see his nakedness out of dignity.
In my Old Testament class my professor said scholars assume it was because Ham had potentially physically touched his dad in an inappropriate way because of his nakedness. Because in other translations Noah is like, “Ham, what did you do to me?”
Conflict runs amok in our communities today. Like Shem and Japheth we need to work together to correct others in our faith when they are wrong but to do it with living hearts. And like John, we must recognize the gifts of others and that we may not be the best leader or teacher for some.
I am STRUCK by the friendship and humility of John the Baptist. To be so confident and sure of your place of “preparing the way” for Jesus’ arrival, to then sharing with others and explaining the joy of the bridegrooms best man, just rejoicing in the joy of hearing his friends voice. Makes me so teary eyed, oh how I hope to reflect John’s joy and friendship in the way he lived his life for God!
I found it so beautiful that the LORD set the rainbow as a sign of the covenant between Him and the earth. He is so sweet. It is just a reminder that I have to really appreciate all of God’s creation and the beauty in the small details. Thank you Father for all of your blessings. I choose joy today. I choose you.
I found it so beautiful that the LORD set the rainbow as a sign as His covenantwith us. He is so sweet.
The last verse we read in John today is what really stood out to me: 36Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.
It’s the whoever does not OBEY the Son that really got to me. First it talks about believing, but then it doesn’t stop there, it then talks about obeying.
It was just a good reminder that this life is not my own. It’s not enough to just believe. Even the demons believe and tremble. Faith without works is dead. Let us not compromise in this new year and work hard at obeying His word and everything He asks of us!
So good! Thank you for sharing!
I read this this thought in the book Whisper, today. The author said to read scripture until I get to a verse that tells me to do something and then get up and do it. Faith without works is dead.
Reading complete today ✅
So good! He must increase , I must decrease. God is so good.
I found it interesting that verses 12, 17, and 24 gives us insight into how long the event of the actual flood took place. It wasn’t just a 40 day thing that went away quickly. Noah and everyone on the ark endured months of turbulent waters before they could float along peacefully. Of course then they had to wait a long time for the waters to die down before they could walk on dry land. Can you imagine how grumpy and stir crazy they must have been? Yet the Bible never mentions that they questioned the Lord or cursed Him for putting them through it. I know the Bible focuses on Noah in this account but I think that his family also had faith to be able to endure this trial on the earth. I’m sure they could have ultimately chosen to stay outside the ark if they had wanted to.
That part stuck out to me too! What beautiful insight here for those of us walking through what feels like an endless trial. Thank you!
Done. Where my girls at?!?!?
Mmm so good! Everyone quotes John 3:16 but 17 is what I need reminded of most days! Believers, if you feel condemned by God, it is NOT His voice you are hearing. Most of the time it is my voice, my past voice, the world or the Father of Lies himself- satan. Stand firm that if you have placed your faith in Christ- you stand freely forgiven in unending grace.
Such a sweet and powerful reminder!
I hope throughout my life that no matter what trials I face, I have the trust in God that Noah does.
I wondered, too
I wondered this, too!
He must increase and I must decrease ❤️
❤️
Last year I made a group on Facebook for those of us reading through in a year—search on FB for “The Bible in a Year w/ SRT”. I’d love for you to join us in discussion about the reading & prayer & accountability for each other.
Thanks for this- I am not on FB but know your comments bless many of us- I followed all you posted here last year and always learned from your written thoughts!
Thank you Sarah! I will definitely check that out!
Thank you ladies!
I couldn’t reply to Rebecca Leek’s post but to respond to the question of God needing reminders, I don’t think He needs a reminder. I think that His whole point there is to model remembrance for us. I think those verses are to show us the thought process of remembering. If it is important enough for God to be intentional about remembrance, how much more important for us to remember covenants and gratitude.
Genesis 8:21 says, “for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth”.
There is hope for each of us in John 3:36 “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him”.
I can feel His presence around me this morning! To God be all the glory!❤️
I loved the verses of Nicodemus and Jesus. The way that Jesus speaks truth into his life with all boldness and authority of how we must be born again spiritually. My takeaway is to speak boldly for Christ
❤️
I was curious about the animals being filled with the “breath of life”…. I have sometimes heard the breath of life refers to as the spirit….. thoughts?
But John 16-30 so good.
This passage is not referring to the Holy Spirit. It is just emphasizing all living things except those on the arc died.
He must increase and I must decrease.
Short, powerful verse. I must continue to humble myself if I want the Lord to work in a more powerful way in my life. That was my interpretation ❤️
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
I’m very confused was cannab cursed because his father did not want to help noah
I think it was that and that Cannan’s actions were disrespectful and hurtful. He didn’t tell his brothers asking for help but to hurt his father in my opinion.
❤️
Could anyone tell me what God means by clean and unclean animals?
Great question. Though I’m not 100% sure, I do know that “clean” animals were meant for sacrifice and the animals that were blind or lame wasn’t pleasing to God as a pure sacrifice. It was made mention that God was tired of it. Trying to remember where and once I find it, I’ll let you know. =) not completely sure why there were unclean animals as well but I’m thinking that it might be referring to them not being perfect like they were lame or blind. I’ll look into it tonight for/with you! I’m curious now.
Katie! I found this https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/what-does-the-bible-teach-about-clean-and-unclean-meats/which-animals . This link will bring up scripture in Leviticus and Deuteronomy. =) these are specific animals that are considered “unclean” to eat.
I am constantly in awe of Noah’s obedience! I can’t imagine dropping everything and doing something so crazy lie building the ark and trusting that the storm would come. Think about the criticism he received…
I would love to have the intimate communication that He had with the Lord. He was in such clear direction
Love this! Clear direction indeed! Would love to have that as well
I am a Christian teen and I want to be baptized . Do I need to be baptized in a certain religion or will my baptizing work?
If you are not a certain denomination then you can go to a non denominational church for Christians. I go to a Baptist church personally. I have been to all sorts of denominations and Baptist is what I tend to really enjoy.
Kinaya, I second what Nicole said. I was raised Baptist but go to a nondenominational church now. Both are great! Check out a few churches around you for info on baptism!
Kinaya, I also go to a baptist church and really enjoy it. Being baptized shows other people that you are a believer. It shows people that you believe in the word of God. It does not matter what church you go to as long as it believes that Jesus came down and he is your lord and savior.
The Bible speaks about he right method of baptism. Not all churches follow the Bible way. Also Baptism identifies you with a Church and religion.
I’m confused on why as children we were taught there were 2 animals of every kind when actually there was 14 of the clean animals right? Because the scripture says 7 of the clean animals “male and his female.” Am I right that the male and female is counted as one? Because if they’re counted separately, then there’s an animal without a mate because it’s odd… does this make sense to anyone else? lol
You’re correct in all the math haha. I do not understand either why we were taught 2 of every animal. It’s not biblical.
Hi Ashley! I think God had them take more clean animals because they would eat those animals. They needed more clean animals for food and to produce flocks and beards eventually. Sometimes when I chat with vegan friends I refer to this and the story of Cain and Abel. Looks like God endorsed eating at least some meat from the very beginning of humankind.
Thank you! I also asked my pastor and he said yes the 7 extra animals were to eat and also to be sacrificed once Noah built the alter.
7 pairs of clean animals…so 7 pairs of bulls, 7 pairs of doves, etc. And then only 2 pairs of every unclean animal. I’m not sure why we aren’t taught this correctly. I had never caught it before!
Karlena, that’s so awesome that you’re doing this, and I want to encourage you to keep doing it!
You’re correct in all the math haha. I do not understand either why we were taught 2 of every animal. It’s not biblical.
Noah was obedient. He did “all that the LORD had commanded.” And after being stuck in a smelly boat for such a long time, I could relate to Noah probably thinking God had forgotten about him. Yet we see in Genesis 8:1 “God remembered Noah.” I love this. I love this so much. Even when we think we are alone and He isn’t listening, God doesn’t forget about us he remembers us just as he remembered Noah. It’s kind of funny to be reading this, it’s been raining in my area lately and the other day when I was walking out of Trader Joe’s there was a double rainbow. I kid you not there were like 5 different people standing out of their cars taking pictures. I couldn’t help but think, “haven’t they ever seen a rainbow. I mean even double rainbows are becoming more common.” Yet today I find myself totally humbled. Because what I saw was “another double rainbow.” I am reminded that to Noah this wasn’t just a rainbow, but it was a covenant between Noah and God. This is is the moment when Noah was reminded that God remembers him and doesn’t forget. So the next time I see a rainbow, it’s just a reminder that God remembered.
I love this Angelica!
This is so true
Great post, knowing what scriptures says about it is impactful. I remind my kids all the time where rainbows come from.
I am so new to this, being a part of a group while reading scripture, and I’m even moving to become a member of a church 1/22. Is there a group, like the facebook group where it’s appropriate to ask questions and just have nice chats? I have questions because my relationship with the lord has always just been he and I and not with the Bible helping me understand the LARGE picture.
I’m new, and scared about things and really want to continue with this wonderful set up for the readings ( both this one and the 28 day one that just started)
When I’m reading the daily scripture or the 365 daily bible I feel peaceful. I feel joy. Is that normal?
I’m a 29 year old woman, single, going to school full time and working part time at a hospital. My life is stressful and 99% I don’t have anyone to speak to besides my two cats. It seems the best way to figure out thing is to speak with other people who have or who are going through same tribulations
I’m 31, single, also in school full time and work part time. My dog is my best friend. I know what yourI going through
Hi Karlena. Welcome and I’m so glad that you’re a part of this. I rarely write posts but I try to read up on everyone’s post.
It’s so great that reading the Bible brings you peace. After all, it is God’s word and God’s the peace giver.
I sometimes find it hard to remain steadfast with reading plans but I’m praying for God’s grace to remain steadfast this year.
“But God remembered Noah,” in Genesis 8:1 reminded me of Ephesians 2:4, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us.”
God destroyed the earth because of it’s wickedness and poured out His judgement through the flood, and so we too are all “children of wrath like the rest of mankind,” according to Ephesians 2.
But God had mercy on us! Just like He did to Noah. Except, Noah was righteous in God’s sight, and now we are justified by Christ’s atoning sacrifice on the cross. We are given His righteousness through faith and repentance.
Can I have some prayers? I am going back to school tomorrow and I have had a lot of trouble dwelling on and idolizing guys. Thank you! :)
Mary, thank you for sharing this! I am praying that the Lord will give you strength to dwell on things true, noble, right, pure and lovely. May He bless you in your studies!!!
Good luck Mary. I pray for the lord to give the strength & knowledge to stay true to your studies, and allow dwelling of men & the urges to fall away until your right time.
Praying for you Mary!
Erin, check out Leviticus 11. It talks about clean and unclean animals.
Thank you!
That is amazing how every time a rainbow appears in the sky that we can remember Gods covenant and the flood.
Newbie here… what is meant by “clean animals” and “not clean”? Genesis 7:2
Erin, this is referring to animals that were ceremonially pure and fit for food, etc. This is an interesting read about the topic: http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/4408-clean-and-unclean-animals
Thank you!
And God remembered Noah…
Isn’t it wonderful to be assured that when we’re going through something big our Father in Heaven still remembers us.
I loved verse 29 in John 3 where it talks about the bridegroom and the friend of the bridegroom rejoicing at his voice. Being in a season of life where many friends are getting married this was such a great picture in my mind of watching your friends get married and rejoicing at their happiness and all that goes with the day. They are the ones that are get all the attention that day and there is no greater joy seeing them get the attention they deserve – just as we make Him increase and we decrease – we give Him the attention He deserves because He is worthy of it and it is our joy to do it.
I love John 3:18, I looked up the word condemned and applied what God is not:
He does not dissaprove of me.
He does not critique me
He does not attack me
He does not denounce me
He does not blame me
He does not reprimand me
He does not rebuke me
He does not find fault in me
Love it.
Love this ❤️
Oh! This is so so good!
this is so so good! Thank you for this!!
JOHN 3:17!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! For all who are in darkness and far from God, for all who want to know who God is and what He’s all about… His heart is fully summed up in His plan for us – that not only did He give up His only Son that we might be saved (John 3:16, which everyone quotes) BUT ALSO JOHN 3:17 for Jesus did not come to condemn the world but to save us all.
God’s true heart is revealed in these two verses : love and grace for all is His desire and the purpose of His plan for us.
I just wanna run around my neighborhood and shout JOHN 3:17!!!!!!!! John 3:17, people!!!!!! Get to know the real heart of God… Because so many have such a misconstrued perception of who He is and what He’s about and what He wants… He wants to shower us with His love and bring us all to Himself by grace!!!! ❤️ How wonderful is that?!?!?!
❤️ one of the most beautiful promisses He made for us
It is so wonderful God is so wonderful ❤️
John 3:30 “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
I think this meaning goes so much deeper than John lessening the amount of people that he baptizes. “Less of me, more of Christ” is what I got out of this, because when Christ comes into our lives we become more like him, and less like our flesh.
Sidney this is how I read the verse as well. So true!
I agree. I interpreted this exactly the same. It made me really think deeper.
Love your thoughts, ladies! Ham’s disrespect of Noah also reminds us, that even in their mistakes, we are to show honor to our mother and father. Which is exactly what the other brothers did, despite what I imagine was to Ham’s disappointment. As pointed out by Matthew Henry, perhaps Ham struggled with the sin of drunkenness … and found comfort in exploiting his dad’s moment of weakness so he could hide from his own.
I love God’s Word! It never gets old, always living and active!
In Genesis 8:21 it says that “the Lord said in his heart, ‘I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth…'”
Do you think God felt remorse for bringing the flood? Or do you think he was lamenting the fact that mankind was so depraved that he had to bring justice?
This verse confuses me a bit, because God would have known the outcome yet it seems like He felt remorse in some way…
I feel like He knew what would happen, but Je was still disappointed that our free will given to us by Him led us there. I think about my children: they can choose to obey or disobey, and while sometimes I KNOW what one will choose if still hurts when they choose disobedience/disrespect. I may know it is coming, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt my heart. Does that make sense?
A good reminder to help us keep our thoughts pure!
From what I read about that passage my study bible, Canaan was cursed because of Ham’s reaction to seeing Noah drunk and naked in the tent. Ham didn’t do anything about it, he just went and told his brothers. They respectfully covered him up.
The commentary portion says, “There is no reasonable support for the notion that some perverse activity, in addition to seeing nakedness, occurred. But clearly, the implication is that Ham looked with some sinful thought, if only for a little while until he left to inform his brothers. Perhaps he was glad to see his father’s dignity and authority reduced to search weakness. He thought his brothers might share his feelings so he eagerly told them. They did not, however, share his attitude.” Obviously, there’s a little bit of speculation in there, but I think it makes some sense. (I use a the MacArthur Study Bible.)
Basically, his descendants are being cursed for his behavior.
This helped thank you!
Thanks for this!
That would make sense. I was wondering why he would get cursed for that
Why did Noah curse Canaan? “20 Noah began to be a man of the soil, and he planted a vineyard. 21 He drank of the wine and became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent. 22 And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father and told his two brothers outside. 23 Then Shem and Japheth took a garment, laid it on both their shoulders, and walked backward and covered the nakedness of their father. Their faces were turned backward, and they did not see their father’s nakedness. 24 When Noah awoke from his wine and knew what his youngest son had done to him, 25 he said,
“Cursed be Canaan;
a servant of servants shall he be to his brothers.””
I wondered the same thing. Would love to know.
I’m wondering that too.
I believe it is because when Ham saw his father’s nakedness he didn’t cover him up. Instead he told his brothers, who then covered him. Maybe he was disappointed in his actions. Just a guess.
That sounds right, it’s also what Lisa Kay said.
Yeah i think your pretty spot on but I also think also the when Noah cursed Canaan he was also cursing ham’s whole offspring
I was wondering too, I got confused at that part
I did some more research on it, and when it says he “saw the nakedness”, there is some discussion on what that meant. It could have meant to just see, but it also could have meant that he performed a homosexual act with him (see Leviticus 20:17) and then others thought he might have made fun of or gossiped about his fathers drunkeness, but I’m not sure how that was derived.
I’m wondering why God left the waters of the foods so long. Any living thing that drowned would die within a few minutes. Maybe the length of time helped dead things dissolve in the water so that when it all dried up, there wouldn’t be bodies everywhere? It was several months of everything being under almost 300 feet of water. Then it took more time for it to all dry up.
I wondered if maybe is was testament to Noah’s faith? God told him that it would rain for forty days and forty nights, but despite that time being over (as far as is in that section) Noah has no words of dissent or questioning God. Instead he waits until the time comes to leave the ark, whenever that may be. If that’s the case it makes Noah creating an altar for God after he leaves the ark all the more powerful. Instead of questioning God after he leaves the ark he continues to worship Him.
I love that!! We named just named our son, Noah and I love finding new reasons to love that name!
Love love love how you put this!! Went into my notes
I started late but am trying to catch up I can’t wait to read more tomorrow
Welcome!:)
I absolutely love what John The Baptist says in verse 30! He must become greater and greater and I must become less and less!! What a great reminder that we must “die” to ourselves daily and surrender all to Him and stay humble!!!
Yes amen I said the same!!
❤️
Read this passage in the message translation and see if that brings insight…
I’m reading the Message too. Usually I stick to NKJ so it’s an adventure for me. But I figure if I’m going to read such large sections it will help.
Amen! :)
Just curious and could be interpreting this verse all wrong – 22 “As long as the earth endures,
seedtime and harvest,
cold and heat,
summer and winter,
day and night
will never cease.”
I know there aren’t any contradictions in the bible; however, how does this verse correlate with what is said in Revelation about the end of the earth? Any insight is appreciated!!
Revelation says only part of the earth will be destroyed
It may also mean “only” as long as the earth endures… as in, before it is destroyed and made anew, we will always experience normal seasons and day and night, etc. Unlike heaven, where there will be no night and our light will come from the Lamb.
It’s say “as long as the Earth endures”, not that it will endure. At some point it will be destroyed and then there will be a new heavens and a new earth. But this promise of harvests and season until then stood out as a great promise to me! I’d not noticed it before.
What does it mean to be given “the Spirit without limit”? How do we walk in that daily?
In Old Testament days the Holy Spirit empowered specific people for specific purposes, Jesus being God with skin on was the first to be given no limit. Today, because of Jesus’ sacrifice that brought us redemption-part of gift to us includes the ability all believers now have to be filled as well with no limit, our difference is that we still daily have to fight the battle of sinful nature we’re born with and inclined to unlike Jesus. We too can receive this fullness but it requires daily surrender asking God by his spirit to do the work of defeating sin in the flesh that we can’t do on our own and empowering us by that same spirit and grace we receive to love and be Jesus to others. And for those days we fall short, because God knows we’re not perfect, there is grace. Until heaven when flesh and sin will be destroyed and all will be restored to perfection again.
20 ‘For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.
This verse was a great reminder to me of what the lost must overcome, my prayer is that the Lord will lead me in His way to know how to bring light even when it is hated. Thank you Lord that light shines even when it is hated!
I want to bookmark this verse,but it won’t let me highlight. I’m on my iPad. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Savannah, my daughter, Wendy, used this verse in her blog. She then shared this app with me, and I’m so glad she did.
“He must increase, I must decrease”
This is the verse that my small group leader shared with me last year when I was too consumed with myself and my own problems to worry about my relationship with God. This is the verse that got me really reading my bible for the first time. I kept this verse as the wallpaper on my phone for a month straight as a constant reminder that I should focus on God, not myself. In the past year I have grown so much in my walk with the Lord, and rereading this verse just reminds me to keep growing, because ultimately I am less and He is more
34 for God gives the Spirit without limit.
reminder that everything done in His name, remains set in eternity!
I feel this passage really shows the power and control the Lord has, and it’s a good reminder that he won’t forget about any one of us❤️
“He must become greater, I must become less” John 3:30♡
Shows how we cannot let Christ in us without humbling ourselves and realizing that we are not able to do it on our own
John 3:15-21 is a great reminder that those who follow the path will be rewarded in the end by having eternal life
Also Noah cursing Canaan foreshadows the Canaanites fall in Deuteronomy 7:1-3
The drunkenness of Noah is like a second fall. The father of the new generation (like Adam). Ends up failing. Definitely shows the need for Jesus and God’s divine plan.
I had never thought of it like that before, Madison. Thanks!!!
I love it though_ it shows that Noah was human and fallible – just like the rest of us…
I find it uncharacteristic of Noah, of whom it repeatedly says did everything God commanded of him, to do something like get drunk on wine.
He is human just like you and me, we sin.
We see sin in every single biblical character yet God chooses to call them righteous.
I find it comforting that all the bible “heroes” are sinners like me – often far worse than me – yet God declares them righteous by faith (Hebrews 11)
Amen.
He must increase, but I must decrease. In a world where we try to get ahead all the time and have the best of everything, we are missing the point. We need less of us and more of our savior. This really spoke to me today.
This is what God also put on my heart today. This New Year we need to constantly glorify him and not ourselves because who are we without him?
What did Canaan do wrong?
He made fun of his father by telling his brothers.
Disrespecting his father.
I love how the OT shows how Horrible sin really is. Even something we would think shouldn’t be THAT big of a deal. No matter what it is, if it’s sin then it’s worthy of punishment.
It reminds us how much we need Jesus.
I thought that was Ham?
You’re right. Now we’re both confused.
I thought Ham was also named Canaan.
Canaan was Ham’s son
Ham had found him naked and didn’t cover him up
He did that because back then the father of the family was like the head of the family so if he was cursed his family was be cursed also and if he was blessed his family would be blessed. Ham was the father of Cannan so Cannan was cursed.
I may be reading into this too far, but can someone explain the significance (if any) of the Raven’s departure and never coming back? When teaching English, I always pointed out to my students that, historically, the Raven is a bad omen. Thanks!
I believe it says the Raven went “to and fro” but the Dove was the bird that first came back with the leaf, a sign that the waters were drying but then finally did not return because it found a place to land its feet. I’m not sure if there is significance in the Raven but the Dove is a reoccurring theme
Thanks! :)
Sucks for those animals that survived on the arc for that long just to be sacrificed right after they’re let out!
That’s exactly what I was thinking!
9 But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters were on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark.
How many times have we ventured out and came to find that we had no place to rest?
Realizing that only in the hands of the One who made us we will have true peace.
Jesus is the True and Better Noah.
Just like the waters covered the whole earth and there was no place for the dove, so is our world covered in sin. One day we will be in our final resting place and God will take us and pull us in unto him.
Amen!
Beautiful!
Love this. ❤️
Woah that is so good! I’ve recognized seeing Noah as Jesus but relation of us as the dove. *mic drop truth
Amazing! Love love love this!
I love the part where God sent the rainbow as a promise that He would never flood the earth again. I think that shows that God is true to His word and cares for Noah deeply. The last part was a little confusing and I would love it if someone could explain it to me.
Hi Emerson!
To me the last part where Noah gets drunk and naked, and his sons show different responses is basically showing that the problem of sin was not done with. Let me expand.
God decided to destroy mankind because of man’s wickedness (sinful ways). God in his sovereign mercy decided to save Noah and his family. Then comes the flood and all but what is in the ark is destroyed. Noah and his family come out and are grateful to God. God makes a covenant with them and promises to not destroy the earth in the same way again. Noah’s family move on with their lives and start doing normal things like cultivating and making wine. This is the point where it all goes awry again.
God had destroyed all wicked men, but the reality is that sin had not yet been destroyed. The destruction of mankind was not the perfect solution to the problem of sin, something else had to be done and this paves the way to the need for Jesus. Because sin was still present Noah got drunk and naked and his son Ham sinned by shaming his father. Noah responds to Ham’s actions by cursing him and his descendants (Canaan). You will be able to see how this curse plays out later on in Genesis.
I hope this helps, friend!
Melisa this was so helpful!! Thank you SO much. I have been struggling with this section for awhile now and you helped shed some light on it for me:)
Now I wonder if it was the passage in John that you were referring to as being confusing.
John the Baptist neatly summed up what I struggle with and pray about most: He must increase and I must decrease. I wrestle with my flesh and the desire to let my will rule the day. I pray so desperately for the courage to hand over my whole heart to Jesus. I was told once that, “You can’t submit to God and expect to keep any part of yourself.” I wish I had the courage to let God have His way completely, but I still find myself resisting. I fear what His changing of my heart and desires might cost me. I am ashamed of this fear, and I tell Him so, yet I still feel it. I know in my head that God is more than enough to satisfy my desires, but in some ways I have yet to experience the fullness and contentment that comes with such strong faith and attachment to Him. Not to worry. God is faithful. He will not start a work that He will not finish. I am the clay, as much as my flesh may resist, and He will mold me and use me as His vessel; I am sure if that.
Amen!! I struggle as well, maintaining the perspective that I must decrease. That I can not serve two masters:myself and God, I must be willing to set down my life in order to live for Christ and obey him. That applying his ways to my life are the best ways to live! Thank you for sharing and I pray reassurance for this new year, that God shows all he has planned for you and that He is enough! In Jesus name! Amen!
Thank you for your encouragement!
I am wondering how I know if a direction comes from God or not. How do I know what He tells me to do?
You are not alone. I, too, struggle with this daily and pray for a heart that completely gives all of my flesh, blood, soul and spirit to Him. I pray to let go of things beyond my control; not to worry or stress over the things that I have given to God.
Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability here!
Your introspection and recognition of your struggles is incredible. I share the same struggles at times, and your trust and prayerfulness through it all is very encouraging to me. Your trust is his works takes more faith than you know! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for your responses. I never dreamed anyone would read what I wrote, let alone respond as you ladies have. I was mostly afraid that what I wrote didn’t sound genuine. I am so comforted to know I’m not alone in my prayers and struggles. What I have had to do is take it one day at a time, submitting myself to Him every morning. He is faithful, even if I’m not. That can be my greatest comfort, and also my greatest sadness. His faithfulness is a wonderful promise to hold onto. However, my failures and lack of faithfulness are hard to face. If I struggle this much at 19 what will the rest of my years be like? How can I face an entire lifetime trying to do God’s will when my weaknesses are so many and so great? I pray that His strength be made manifest through my weaknesses, because I can do nothing with them. My best efforts have only brought me pain. Let Him use me.
Arden, at 17 I feel the same way. But the craziest thing of all is that his grace is SO much greater than our weaknesses! He can use us with the flaws we possess even when we feel he cannot. He has adopted us into a family of PERFECT love, and he loved us when we were the dirtiest, most revolting, sinful people through his Son’s death. A child cannot adopt herself into a family. The parents do all of it. I pray for the grace of perfect love to be absorbed into your heart today, Arden. Thank you for sharing.
Darby, you are indeed a kindred spirit! Thank you for your encouragement; thank you for ‘sharpening me’ as Scripture says. Like I said, I never imagined that what I wrote would even be read, let alone responded to. My expectations have been further exceeded by gaining a friend. I only wish I could talk to you more. ;)
Gen 8:1 “God remembered.” Still to this day. He hasn’t forgotten me like the others. I am known.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Love that!
This part really stood out to me and reaffirms God’s faithfulness to us… He didn’t say when a rainbow appears you remember what my covenant is with me… No he says “14 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, 15 I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. 16 Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”
It’s wonderful because he set the covenant by his words, he speaks and directs the clouds, rain and light to create the rainbow by day aaaand by night so he can reaffirm his faithfulness to us not our faithfulness to him. My understanding of covenants is that the lesser party is trying to bargain with the one who has the greater but here God who needs nothing shows the value he places on us though we have nothing and are nothing in comparison… Then in John 3:16 again we are reminded just how much we are loved by him that he gives his only begotten [greek word monogenes – pertaining to being the only one of its kind or class, uniqueness in kind.] son in exchange for us.
Praise God for His faithfulness.
thank you for this. it opened my eyes to God’s humility in his powerfulness. He is greater and we are lesser and yet his mercy and love is limitless
One thing I noticed from yesterday’s reading to today’s (and I hope I get a response to this even though I’m very late), is that in Genesis 5 Enoch didn’t “die,” God “took him” because he was such a righteous man. I’m only confused as to why Noah’s story ends with “and then he died” rather than “and then God took him.” Was Noah not as righteous of a man as Enoch?
My study Bible states that Enoch was taken by God without experiencing death just like Elijah. He was b also the 7th from Adam in the genealogy of Seth. 7 is the number of completeness, so maybe that was the reason he was taken? Noah was 10th from Adam in the genealogy of Seth.
It was the faith he had. It had nothing to do with righteousness Katie, Abraham ,the father of faith was righteous he was a friend of God and still died. The Amp Bible says that Enoch walked in habitual fellowship with God. Meaning that He walked in awareness of God, He walked with God, in a world where wealth, heirs and family was all that seemed to matter to most. Enoch walked in habitual fellowship with God. Something we so are not even trying much. It was his faith in God Katie, read Hebrews 11vs 5 it.God bless.
I love thinking about how God gave the ultimate sacrifice (his son) for us just as Jesus gave this ultimate sacrifice of his life for us.
Love this too, Emma! God is so good!
sometimes i think im too inquisitive for my own good, buuut im curious what is the significance of noah sending the raven? why didn’t he just send the dove to begin with? any idea?
“17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God.”
I think a lot of people, myself included, tend to forget this bit sometimes. We all know and have heard John 3:16 a million times. But what comes after it is so, SO powerful! Jesus isn’t condemning you! A life with Him will change you through realization of your sin amd endless love. But never once does Jesus condemn someone who walks with Him.
That is so true. We are not condemned if we choose to walk with him. Thanks for sharing
Why did Noah curse Canaan?
I didn’t understand that either! I thought maybe because he didn’t cover him up, he went and told his brothers?
Yes that is why. Better for one to see him naked and no one else know, than for one to see him naked and three to know.
I think it was disrespectful of Ham to see his father and then tell his brothers. There are so cultural nuances to this story, but what he did was offensive to all involved.
Look at my explanation below.
Ham was disrespectful, and Canaan is Ham’s son. Often in the OT God will bless or curse both the indemnified person and their offspring.
There was nothing more humiliating to a man than to be exposed naked. When Canaan found his father unclothed in a drunken stupor, he did not cover him up. Instead, he chose to tell his brothers who then did what was right. Noah had just witnessed God destroying the world because of ungodly behavior – this curse was to show the severity of Canaan’s actions. He was clearly not ready to hold an authoritative role in this time of repopulation. Noah allowed him to stay in the house, but made him work for his brothers to make a clear example of Godly standards vs those that fall weak to the world.
Im sure for a father who was given the sole responsibility by God to restart human kind, it was pretty devastating to have a son witness that and still do shameful things.
No
Ham was Noah’s son but if you look at my explanation below this you will understand.
Ham had found him naked and didn’t cover him up
He did that because back then the father of the family was like the head of the family so if he was cursed his family was be cursed also and if he was blessed his family would be blessed. Ham was the father of Cannan so Cannan was cursed.
What do they mean by clean and unclean animals?
Clean being righteous, and able to eat. Unclean, unrighteous, and can not eat. Look in Leviticus 11, that talks about the clean and unclean animals. God gave them rules that Israel could never live up to. They could never save themselves, they have always needed a savior.
Now that Christ has come, and died and rose again, he has fulfilled that law. See Acts 10:9-16
Thank you Hannah.
It’s awesome to have a community to discuss the bible with. I’m behind, but will catch up!
I’m a little late to the party, but I was wondering if anyone could give me some insight on genesis 9:6 Whoever sheds man’s blood, his blood will be shed by man, for God made man in His image.
I think (and this is my opinion) that this is saying those hurt mankind it will be returned tenfold. Man is made in God’s image, therefore by hurting man, you hurt God. Again, my interpretation- no facts or schooling behind it.
I believe that it means that whoever takes another person’s life will be judged by men and condemned for murder (just as is done today in the courts). Life is very sacred to God because man was created in the image of God. As Caroline also said, hurting another person hurts God as well. This is just my interpretation of the text
Gen 7:5 Noah did all God commanded and paid a huge price. And yet Gen 9:23 his 2 sons Shem and Japheth covered their father’s sin. May we give grace to all and cover the sins of our fam and friends.
Did anyone else notice that after Noah entered the boat it took 7 days for the rain to come? How often do we feel God has spoken to us about something but then He doesn’t show up when we think He should. The ESV version shows that God told Noah “in 7 days I will send rain on the earth” but my NKJV and NIV version does not quote this. Let this be my reminder that even though God tells me something, it may not be when I expect it to come to pass.
Thanks for pointing that out! It’s a great reminder. I often find myself inpatient and turning to other means to have my needs met, rather than wait for God’s perfect timing. Yet God knows us better than we know ourselves, and He certainly knows what we need and when.
That is so wonderful and speaks right to my soul!
That is so good! There is this saying all the youth and young adults say at my church, “delay does not mean it’s been denied.” Patience is everything!
” He must become greater; I must become less.” John describes perfectly what the relationship between God and his children! We must become less of ourselves in order for Him to be Lord of our lives! Have a great day ladies!!
I have a question, I am just reading the bible for the first time, and was wondering if this follows the bible exactly. I see that each day we are reading some parts of genesis and then some parts of John. The sequence doesn’t seem correct…is the app just making it this way or does the bible really go from genesis to John…back and fourth. I went from reading about how earth was created, to Cain and Abel, and now noah…didn’t know if that was supposed to be like that…jumping around to different stories so quickly. Thanks for any help you can give! :)
Jody, how exciting you are reading the bible for the first time. You are correct that it seems a bit out of order, because it is. This is moving between the New Testament and old. A lot of year long bible plans do this to help you connect history of the Hebrew culture in the old testament to the life and teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.
While the bible in a year is fantastic, for a first time reader I might suggest to start with smaller bites. John, which you’ve been reading so far in this study, is a great place to start. Follow that with Matthew, mark, and Luke. Those are each recanting a of the life of Christ and offer some of the se and different aspects of Jesus ministry, based on the author of the book.
Happy reading!
Thank you! :)
Jody, I am also excited for your new reading journey! In general, it may seem overwhelming. And as Carol noted, it is jumping around. Allow God to show you what He wants you to get, for this time. Concentrate on what you can…and don’t get overwhelmed by trying to take ~every~ point in. Every time I read a chapter again, something new jumps out… God reveals what we need for the specific “season” we are in. I couldn’t start the plan right on time, so I jumped to the day I was in… I plan to catch up the other days as I can. One day, I could only concentrate on half of a John chapter… That is okay too. I just concentrated on what few verses God was trying to point out to me. My goal is to remain consistent in my reading as much as possible, everything else is based on what God wants to share with me.
Thank you! So happy to have found this app, and love how quickly people have been willing to explain to me what I do not understand so far. :)
I love this app as well! It seems we are all learning together. Love the many replies & pondering notes. Especially that I can do it in my time, and usually in my robe (double bonus!)… :) Glad we can encourage each other.
Love these important reminders!
“But you must not eat meat that still has its lifeblood in it” Gen 9:4- what does this mean?
I think that means eating an animal that is carrying it’s young, maybe?
I always thought it meant don’t consume blood. You drain it out first.
Yes I thought it meant to drain the blood and perhaps cook the meat.
My study bible says this is the first time God gives permission for them to be carnivorous but the animals blood remains sacred and not to be consumed. It’s an acknowledgement that all life is from God.
The Life is in the blood :)
This reading made me uncomfortable with God. Actually I’ve come away all three days thinking “god is kind of being a jerk”.
So Noah gets fall down drunk and naked and the son who first finds him is punished and his whole lineage made into slaves?! That hardly seems right.
I had that same though with Cain and Able. Cain made an offering to God using the tools he had and God was displeased with it. Which sent Cain off the deep end.
Old Testament God is deeply troubling to me. And that is impacting the way I see the New Covenant.
I leave this reading more troubled than comforted.
I agree that the Old Testament can be troubling at times, mainly because our brains just don’t think that way. I like how it’s having us read parts of the NT too. It shows God’s wrath but then Jesus’ compassion. There are parts of the bible we will never understand –
Check out Hebrews. That’s one chapter that I know makes a lot of comparisons between OT and NT and attempts to help us understand what the people of that time went through when the Holy Spirit wasn’t available to them. Please keep posting questions and I’ll be praying that the Lord reveals to you his intentions during the remainder of this reading plan.
You are right, so much of the Old Testament does seem to connect with what we know of the God from the New Testament. But as far as Cain goes, what I have learned is that it was a heart attitude. Abel brought his gifts with a true and loving heart where Cain had a heart filled with resentment, manifested more in his behavior with both Abel and God. I believe the same is true with Noah’s son-his heart was not right when he helped his father-whether he mocked him or did the internal eye roll-something in his attitude was less than respectful and God knew it. He knows our hearts and consequences come accordingly. I feel that is the message behind these two stories.
The biggest thing you have to remember while reading the OT, and the whole bible is that we ALL deserve to die and we are ALL slaves to sin. Any blessing and good thing, and mercy from God is undeserved! We are sinners and while we sinning, God loved us to a point that he sent his own son to die in our place, for our mocking, our lying, our selfishness, our darkest filthiest moments. A lot of OT stories are to illustrate just how much God is saving us from… And to show us that he is serious about hating sin. He demands perfection…. If he didn’t his Son lived and died in vain.
YES! What Rachel Nickel said. Whenever I start to think “Why do bad things happen to good people, or why do good things happen to bad people” — I have to remind myself.. Switch up the question and ask “Why does God choose us?” We are so undeserving and enslaved to sin, but God — in his love chooses to save us! It’s really a beautiful thing to see when we truly realize how much we deserve death and God gives us life. Eternal, everlasting life.
I agree. It’s concerning. What I’ve gathered from Cain and Abel is that God found favor with Abels. It doesn’t necessarily mean he didn’t accept Cains. Maybe because Abel put more thought into it where as Cain did it just cause Abel did. Also with Noah’s son, I checked my study bible because it bothered me too and what it sounds like is that Canaan tried to humiliate his father by telling his brothers, indicating that he had evil intentions in his heart. The sole reason God wiped them out to begin with. Hope this helps.
With the case of Cain and Abel, Abel’s sacrifice was an offering to God that was shadowing Christ’s future sacrifice. He brought the animal offering with its blood, which is what the Lord requires for atonement of sin. Cain bringing the fruit of the land isn’t Gods way of salvation and atonement. I think what this is telling us in a spiritual sense is that there is ONE way to God the Father and that’s through the atoning sacrifice of His precious Son on the cross. And any other sacrifices we bring are not pleasing to Him. But God lovingly warned Cain there that it wasn’t His way, and to be mindful of his heart because sin was crouching at the door. I believe His rebuke there was very kind and gentle, but nonetheless Cain killed his brother out of jealously. But still even after that God showed Cain mercy by covering him so that anyone who found him wouldn’t kill him. That right there shows God’s tender side. Just a thought I had about it, because I know that the way God is portrayed in the OT can seem harsh but there are tender mercies sprinkled all throughout the OT and when you see that you’re able to recognize that even though there are sides of God we don’t particularly understand, we can know what a loving God He truly is and His great mercy for us endures forever.
3 “In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, 4 and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry.” GOD had regard for Abel’s offering because it was from the FIRSTBORN of his flock, in comparison of Cain’s offering which never mentions that is from the FIRST fruits of the ground. God was first in Abel’s heart but wasn’t in Cain’s heart and it was obvious in the way each of them may the offerings. God wants to be put first always and Cain didn’t do that and Abel did. That is way God takes Abel’s offering. And this remains true today, God wants to be put first in our lives, he wants the first fruits, not what’s leftover, and we are not really giving him anything, more like returning him a small fraction of everything that he gives us. (With our tides and offerings and also making him a priority in our life, that means above all things, FIRST) hope this was helpful and that you have more clarity, pray before you read the bible that God may reveal to you he’s true message, which is of Love!
29 He who has the bride is the groom. But the groom’s friend, who stands by and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the groom’s voice. So this joy of mine is complete. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.”
Please Lord let me decrease as you increase!
Amen! Love this verse!
A rainbow joy!
Thanks!
What is the bow in the clouds
A rainbow
Me too ladies!
Amen, Sarah! I’m praying the same in my own life.
I love how “God in Heaven appoints each person’s work” John knew this so well. John is secure in what the Lord has set before him. He knows fully well he is to become less and less and Jesus is to become more and more preparing the way for Him. I want to take this on in my life. In becoming a better friend, sister, daughter of Christ. Let Jesus become greater in me! “He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less”
Love this! The message is so clear! I want the same for me , become less of me, more of him. Its likely the perfect slogan!
I’ve been so impressed in this last year with Gods holiness. I find it frightening and awe inspiring. I’m trying to learn more about his love for me and who I am in light of Jesus Christ. I have fear and trembling before a Holy God…. I want to feel the joy of his love and redemption again.
“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.”, Lord help us be lovers of the light!
Gen. 7:8 – what is the difference between clean and unclean animals?
In the Old Testament law there were animals that could be eaten or sacrificed (clean) and those that couldn’t. Pigs were unclean but Rams were clean. It has to do with hooves, type of food, etc.
I love john 3:17 it’s one of my favorites
Genesis 5:24
Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.
I am confused as to why Noah did not go to heaven.
Or maybe he did? Can someone explain?
I think it just says that Noah lived 950 years and then he died. The reason it says that Enoch was no more and then God took him away was actually a blessing. See Hebrews 11! Enoch didn’t have to see death because of his faith in God!
I have always been taught that God “took him away” or it could be said The Lord called him to himself, and it means that He called him to heaven with out a physical death on this earth.
The bible says that Noah was 600 years old…are biblical years different than years now?
I don’t think so. People lived longer on the earth at this time. Genesis 6:3 says that God shortened the life span just before the flood to 120 years. After that it looks like people’s lifespan began to shrink.
So mountains are in high altitude and the flood covered the mountains, and the ark was resting on the waters, so the ark was floating in extremely high altitudes! A. That had to be wicked cold. B. How did they breathe? Isn’t there a lack of oxygen that high?
It says there was a covering over the ark. And also that God shut them inside when they were all inside. Maybe this is why God shut them in, to do something to ensure that they had oxygen.
Can someone please explain to me why Noah cursed Canaan?
I believe Tara that it was because he had made a mockery out of Noah as he was naked after drinking too much wine…
Random question, does anyone know what the “year” equates too during biblical times? Obviously not 365, but what?
I had the same question.
No. It was a similar year. At that period, the atmospheric levels were different allowing for longer life. It is reasonable to assume that they could still breath. Also, many of the mountain formations were likely caused by the flood so the mountains may not have been as high as they currently are.
“But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.” – John 3:21
He must become greater; I must become less. – John 3:30
I love that verse! ❤️
I was just about to put that verse on here to! Wow, it’s so powerful! I love verse 29 also. What a perfect analogy with the bride and groom and the best man.
Great verse!
“But God remembered Noah…”.
When the storms of life hit we tend to feel alone and forgotten. But God remembers us. Hang on to that hope.
I want to be found righteous in this generation
1 The Lord then said to Noah, “Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation.
I truly love Genesis not only for its wonderful look at how it all started but for its great stories. I also love finding as much humor as I can as I read through scripture.
Can you imagine speaking to our family the way Noah did his youngest in Genesis 9:24-27? Granted, I understand there is a culture difference there, but I can’t imagine my mother turning to my sister and telling her that (as punishment for wrongdoing) she will be my servant! I imagined this as I read it and I couldn’t help but have a hearty laugh. :)
There is a lot of good truth in this book but sometimes, I really love finding those little tidbits that just bring a grin to my lips. Happy new year everyone, may it be wonderful and blessed. :)
I love finding humor in scripture, especially OT! I love John 3 because Jesus and Nicodemus sound so sassy with one another.
This plan is exactly what I needed! I am 27 years old and was not brought up in church persay. I’ve always been a believer and have wanted a better relationship with God. I need God more than ever at this point in my life and I’m hoping with help from others here I’ll be able to make the connection I need so badly!
I’m right there with you Ashley! I’m also 27 was brought up in the church and even graduated from a Christian University where I was always involved in the bible/ church activities etc. lately I’ve been needing God more then ever and feel my relationship with Him is lacking. Looking forward to this study and praying for you and that your relationship with God grows through this study and others in your life!
I am right there with you! I wasn’t brought up in the church either. My husband and I started attending a local a couple years ago and recently have felt this nudge on my heart pushing me to move forward with my faith and building a stronger relationship with God. Delightfully, this study and a couple other studies I am doing has helped open my eyes and build that relationship. I am so encouraged knowing we are in the same position.
I know we should always have an urgency to read our bibles, but this year I feel such a desire to hide His word in my heart. I feel the press and the urgency to read my bible all the way through. I am reminded in these passages that great men had unyielding obedience to an unseen God. So many people want proof, want validation, mandate scriptural reference and want us to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the word of God is true. What did Noah have? Just his faith that God had given him a task. What powerful experience did Noah have in communion with our God that drove to build and take on this task? I am extremely excited for this new year and the promises of God that he has for us!
love this!!
Amen, Eileen. I agree with you and am excited for this journey as well!
We all know John 3:16 but today 3:17 stood out…He didn’t send His son to condemn us, but to save us through Him. Makes me think of what I’ve heard older people say “thank God for Jesus!” Simple statement that is so true!
Noah’s immediate no questioning obedience & trust really stands out to me. I love what my study notes say on this…”Often we do the opposite of Noah. We worry about details over which we have no control, while neglecting specific (such as attitudes, relationships, responsibilities) areas that ARE under our control.” Trusting doesn’t mean sitting idle. It means giving control to God and focusing on and doing what He in that moment has given us to do! Love this!
May I ask where you got your study notes?
It’s from the Life Application Study Bible. New Living Translation.
“Trusting doesn’t mean sitting idle. It means giving control to God and focusing on and doing what He in that moment has given us to do!” I just wrote this down to be placed in few areas of my house/work. It is on y heart now more than ever to be in completely submission and surrender to God. I literally envision be “puppeted” by Jesus to do his work. Total submission doesn’t mean to be idle like a vegetable though. I love how your comment has helped me see the significance hold ACTION in submission/surrender.
Yes!
Thank you for explaining this! :)
God’s word is true. What He says will happen, will happen. God controls nature, it obeys Him. He is in control of all He has made. How much more of our own lives? I love God’s promise made not only to Noah and his sons, but also unto us and all living creatures, about never again destroying the earth with a flood.
Man’s heart, himself, can love the darkness, but until the Light steps in, will man continue doing his evil deeds. We’ve once loved darkness, but now we love the true Light – Jesus Himself. Thank You Lord for this great Light!
Something that I hadn’t thought of before was when Noah left the ark and immediately built an altar to sacrifice to the Lord, it has always been portrayed as an act of worship and thanks for sparing him and his family and restoring the earth. And I’m sure it was! But also, God had just sent 6 months of torrential flood and another 6 months of that water washing away the dead bodies, houses, etc of every living thing on the planet as it receded. I’m sure he was thinking “Oh pleasepleaseplease let your wrath be appeased!” Imagine Noah’s relief when God stated that not only had His wrath subsided, but that He would never flood the earth again. I’m sure Noah was terrified at the display of God’s power and took immense comfort in the promise of the rainbow. Noah needed the constant reminder of it being in the sky and God gave him that.
I’d never thought of that! What a good point!
Something that really stood out to me was Noah’s obedience to The Lord. Nowhere do we read of him questioning God, which I admire and am seeking to be more like. I guess what I get caught up in is finding a balance between being obedient to God and being able to do something in a worldly sense. For example, during y upcoming summer break (I’m currently a college student) I’m wanting to work at a Christian day camp for children that has locations across the country, which I love and all the doors have been opened for this opportunity to even be an opportunity I can take advantage of. However, my mom is worried about how much I’ll get paid. I understand her wanting to make sure I’m financially sound, but my only concern is regretting not taking advantage of this ministry opportunity. I just want to go and do because I feel like this is something God has for me to do, but how can I be obedient like Noah while my parents aren’t exactly on board?
When I was in college I constantly struggled with the right thing to do vs the practical thing to do because you always want/need any extra money when you’re in college. However, in those years and up to my life now (I’m 27) I’ve realized more and more that God will indeed provide when you’re in need. So I say take the opportunity to do what God is calling you to do and do not worry about money because that will be taken care of. God does so many amazing things and takes care of those who are obedient. If you can hang onto that feeling and ideal, you’ll find yourself making decisions that grow your faith and make your heart and soul happy. Everything else comes after that :) good luck!
thank you so much for sharing this, I must make a decision today about something very important and it will mean cutting our monthly income short. I’m so scared but I know I have to trust in GOD and put him first.
Is the summer camp called Summer Shine?
No, it’s called CentriKid. I believe I’ve heard of Summer Shine before. If I can help you out in any way, let me know Ella! Praying for you as you seek this out and continue your walk with The Lord!
Because Ive been looking for more info on that camp as I advance in my walk with God?
There’s a little phrase I’ve heard a million times, but I’ve found it to be true. “If God calls you to it He will bring you through it.” When God calls us to do something He already has all of your needs worked out. However, if your parents are godly people who are genuinely praying over this situation I always lean toward following your parents advice! Continue praying about it and God will reward your willing heart and obedience to Him and your parents. Blessings!
Amber, I have a son in college also. It has taken me sometime to accept the fact that he has a right to his decision, even if I might not agree with it. I have started the same approach with my 16 year old!
I am not saying to disrespect your parents at all! Listen to their advice, ponder if the money issue will leave you in a “debt” scenario or manageable… ultimately it is a decision between you & God. You can respectfully deny your parents wishes if it doesn’t align with God’s calling. Simple say “mom/dad, I love, I hear you, I understand…but have rationalized every aspect of this scenario, talked to God about it, and believe this is the path I need to take” (whatever that path may be).
Main thing is that you don’t act on a “feeling” only and create a debt scenario long-term. If that is not an issue, then the hard part is just standing on what you want to do & relaying that message to your parents. Will pray for you for discernment.
Thank you so much for the advice and encouragement, Moni! It’s so helpful to hear from a parent’s perspective! My parents are very futuristic thinkers/planners, and with the realization that I will be graduating next May with a theology degree from a private, Christian school means that I will have loans and maybe not always a job where I can pay them off at a certain rate has been at the forefront of their minds. I know I’m called to ministry and to serve Him the rest of my life, and my parents have really begun to be supportive/encouraging of it all, even though we all don’t exactly know what the future holds. This summer and the camp I want to work for is an opportunity that we realize is an open door that God has placed in my life while also not going to put me in a debt scenario. So we’re praying and trusting for God to not only provide in the financial aspect, but to provide peace and more discernment along the way. I REALLY appreciate your prayers and advice!
I love your spirit and your love for the Lord! Into our continued Bible study, Abraham is found replying to God a few times “here I am”… May you hear the voice of God just the same, and your reply to mirror his, “here I am”… (May we all work on replying the same too!) God will bless your obedience…and He created this universe… Therefore, He can certainly cover any extra expenses… I will check back later for possible updates on your amazing journey. Excited what He has in store for you… :))
I am seeking a little understanding here: In the footnotes it states that the quotes sometimes extend all the way to John 3:21. So how is Jesus himself telling Nicodemus “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son”?
It makes little difference if it is Jesus speaking these verses, or the apostle John. Either way, the truth remains the same: it is only through Christ that salvation can be attained. For it being Jesus, he specifically refers to himself as God and the Son of God so verses 16-21 would not be out of character. Further, he often speaks of the truth of his nature (as God) in hidden terms. He didn’t always directly state “I am the messiah,” but he alluded to it. He wants the truth of what he plans to do to be clear, but he also wants people (especially his disciples) to discover it for themselves (I.e. “Who do you say I am?”).
Nicodemus was a learned man and a biblical scholar. He could understand that through these verses (if spoken by Jesus), Christ is specifically labeling himself as God as he clearly knows God’s plan.
One thing that I thought about is the power of God. God created the entire world in 6 days and rested on the 7th. He then destroyed the entire earth just with flood waters. Flood waters so deep that even covered mountain tops. WOW! God is so indescribable!
John 3:30 “He must become greater; I must become less.”
This verse really stuck out to me while reading. So often I forget that in my life God should be my number one and I should put myself after him. With this new year, I will focus on putting God first in my life.
Amen!
Why did Noah do this? May God extend Japheth’s territory; may Japheth live in the tents of Shem, and may Canaan be the slave of Japheth.” (Genesis 9:27 NIV)
It’s an example of the chosen nature of humans. Certain people were chosen by God. In this case, do to one son’s sin, he would no longer be equal to his brothers. In most studies, it is suggested that Canaan mocked his father or treated him inappropriately. Yes Noah sinned, but his son should have had respect for him and covered him in his sinfulness rather than reveling in it. Does this help?
Yes. Thank you.
So the action that caused it was going outside and maybe making fun of him. The other brothers tried to protect their father. Thanks!
This passage demonstrates that their are consequences for our sins (the one son mocking his father’s sin, rather than covering it). Also, it demonstrates how God has selected specific lineages for his purposes. Why did God choose Jacob over Esau? For his divine purpose. Why Japheth and Shem over Ham? His divine will.
I’m curious about something… When God banished the people from the earth in Noah’s time, that was before He had sent His Son to deliver us all from death and bring us eternal life… There wasn’t that same hope we have now. So what happened to those people? Were they sent to hell, or did they have a chance to repent and make things right with God? Or were they just done?
God chose us before the beginning of the world (Ephesians). Prior to the sacrifice of Christ and even before the sacrifice and temple system, those who turned to God and followed him could be saved. He is not an unjust God. He allowed for salvation by other means, however, it was not the perfect or complete salvation that we now have in Christ. But we can be certain that people could be saved even before Christ by looking at Hebrews (11 or 12…) as it is the “Faith Hall of Fame.” It is full of individuals from before Christ who were “counted as righteous” because of their faith.
That’s a good question.
Through Christ is the fulfillment f the Law. However, those who came before could be found righteous by their commitment to the Lord. Abraham did not know the savior, yet he knew God and was saved. Check out Hebrews 11 (might be 10..) which is often referred to as the Faith Hall of Fame. These individuals were counted righteous because they believed even though Jesus had not died yet. There was salvation before Christ, just his sacrifice was the ultimate payment. Now all we need do is look to Him. It is a more beautiful and complete sanctification!
It’s incredible that we were so undeserving of God’s love that He wiped the planet clean, yet He was holding on to His most amazing promise! Despite our sin. He would send His son to seek and save the lost! Jesus has always been the answer. What an amazing thing.
I am in the bed with the flu which has given me a lot of time to read all of your wonderful and insightful comments! Thank you for sharing! I don’t always take the time to read through them everyday so it was very special to me today!
I had never realized before that the waters of the flood came from both the rains from above and the waters below. I had always just imagined a lot of rain. It’s also hard to fathom the mountains being covered in water. I always feel so small when I’m vacationing in the mountains, and to think of them submerged in water blows my mind.
My husband and our family have just started going to church regularly and I had been wanting to read the entire Bible for the first time but found it overwhelming — I am so thankful for SRT and this community!
I am reading each day, and soaking up all of the wonderful comments and insight. God is good!
Thank you for sharing! It really is incredible how much easier reading the bible is surrounded by a community of sisters in Christ.
I love how the water has receded by the first day of the first month. It reminds me of the New Year. It’s very uplifting.
Thank you for keeping me in the Word today. Praise the Lord Jesus for you and your team.
I found it interesting that “wind” and “spirit” are the same word in Greek…
Genesis 8:1 talked about how God sent a wind to blow over all the earth and the waters subsided. John 3:8 talked about how the wind blows all around us and how we feel/hear it but we do not understand where it came from…
This is what I learned: Life in the Spirit is as if it were the wind of God. He works as He pleases in His renewal of the human heart. If this is all true, then we will find beauty & strength in places we never imagined. Abiding in the Spirit is the good life. :)
I didn’t notice this! Thanks for pointing it out- it is beautiful!!!!
Yes! Thanks for pointing that out Andrea.
I have raved to my husband about all that I am learning and have encouraged him to read the whole bible with me :) we are at such a low place with just losing my job and God just reminds us that there is light inspite of the darkness going on around us!
Praise Him!!
A little confused why it first says two kinds of every animal and then 7. Help please! :)
Same here! It says seven pairs of the approved (“the ones He has approved for eating and for sacrifice” it says in another version). But why seven of those and only one of the others? Seven is considered a holy number in the bible- completion and perfect.
According to my study bible, these animals (7 pairs) were the ones approved for eating and sacrifice for Noah and his family), the one pair animals were to repopulate the earth
The “unclean” animals would only have to reproduce themselves after the flood, but the “clean” animals would be needed also for the burnt offerings that Noah would sacrifice (see 8:20) and for food (see 9:3).
My husband and I woke up this morning stressed out above yet MORE unexpected bills that came in the mail yesterday. We were talking about what to do and stressing that even though we were being diligent with our finances and praying for wisdom it just did not seem that we would ever get out of this place. Then as I read this I was amazed at just how much waiting Noah did. He didn’t just move when he thought the earth was dry enough, or when he was sick and tired of being on the boat. He waited to hear from the Lord. But after all that waiting on the Lord, Gods first directive to them was “be fruitful and increase”, and then gave them dominion over the creatures of the earth. This really encouraged me as we sit and wait even though we want to continue to stress out and take matters into our own hands. I trust in His goodness and am determined to make it through this time of waiting with patience, praise and expectancy.
Waiting is not my strong suit. I loved this part of the Genesis account as well. What an example to follow on Noah of trusting and obeying and waiting well.
Thanks for sharing Nicolette. Very encouraged to hear your obedience to the Lord in your struggles. I needed to be reminded to do the same.
I feel your struggle!
I’ve been recently dealing with the fact that I graduate from college in just a few short months and even though I will have my degree…I have NO idea where I’ going. I always thought there would be a bright shining light on my future pointing me every step of the way. However…I’m starting to realize God may wait until the last minute to give me direction. I’ve had to deal with the idea of patience as well as trust in God. A friend of mine tweeted a quote that really resonated with me. It said, “To be anxious declares to the world, ‘my God is not trustworthy.'” That hit me deep because I find myself telling God that I NEED to know certain things.
I felt as if today’s reading was just a reassurance of the idea that our God is trustworthy and that we need not worry because he has a plan in it ALL.
Noah had to patiently wait and follow direction as God instructed him to do something that seemed to him to be completely crazy at the time. John the Baptist preached in faith that the Messiah would come after him, and he patiently awaited his arrival comparing it to that of a bridegroom & describing the joy that comes with hearing the bridegroom’s voice.
Although I am terrified of what is ahead, I have to remember that God has proven that he is trustworthy time and time again.
Good word today SRT! And good word from you too Nicolette!
Keep holding to your faith in His plan. He sent me my first job what seemed to be late {I interviewed a few places and nothing was finalized until after graduation}; but that job opened up even bigger doors. And now, I have my dream job and know God gave it to me. He is good and worth leaning on!
Oh my sweet sister, your words echo my very own. I too am graduating from University in just a few short months and also have NO idea where or what my future holds. For someone who is a real planner and organizational freak, this is incredibly hard. The very thought of the unknown has left me crippled with fear and anxiety multiple times.
I know from looking back at my life that God is faithful and that He is trustworthy. I would not be at this very spot if it were not for Him. I know He has a plan that will prevail but I so very often find myself terrified from not knowing what that plan is. I find myself saying, “Okay God, I know You have it worked out, but I just need to know NOW.” But He does not work on our timing. He works in His, because it is better.
Your words were an encouragement to me, not only because they spoke much needed truth into my situation, but because it is comforting to know someone else is walking this very same path. Be blessed. I will be praying for you and may we continue to cling to truth through this time. He is Lord and He will never, ever leave us.
It’s comforting to know you’re not the only one feeling overwhelmed! I’ll be praying for you as well :)
Ellie, I feel you! I just graduated university and still have no idea what I want to “do”. I’m working at a birth and women’s center as a secretary, but I know that’s not forever. My advice to you is the same that others have given to me: it does not matter what you do, as long as you are following God and glorifying Him in your work. You do not have to have it all figured out, because we are children of the One who DOES have it all figured out!
I really like “1 Then the Lord said to Noah, “Enter the ark, you and all your household, for you alone I have seen to be righteous before Me in this time.” Noah’s whole family & creatures of the earth were spared on Noah’s righteousness alone. How empowering & humbling is that??
I have a hard time reconciling “11 ‘I establish My covenant with you; and all flesh shall never again be cut off by the water of the flood, neither shall there again be a flood to destroy the earth.” With natural disasters today lien tsunamis… I realize these don’t affect all flesh or the whole earth, but they are still difficult for me to reconcile after reading a verse like this.
Glad you pointed that out – amazing what can happen when we humble ourselves and allow God to do his work. Who knows what the affect will be of our obedience!
I was struck with the Grace of God in Genesis 8:21 The Lord smelled the pleasing aroma and said in his heart: “Never again will I curse the ground because of humans, even though every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done.”
Note that humans’ inclination hasn’t changed from before the flood. God stays His hand and promises not to destroy even though we are still a sinful, hot mess. God’s commitment snd the gift of Jesus Redemption and His “making all things new” in Revelation 21:5 gives me unspeakable joy. “And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:5
John 3:21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. -Sometimes I need to dwell on this verse and remember that we are creatures of sin. While we are on this earth, we will never be completely free of it. But by the Grace of God we (He) can overcome it. Our sins cannot enslave us if we bring them into the light. As soon as we do, as soon as we stop hiding them in the deepest pit of our hearts, as soon as we bring that shame into the light; admit that it is real, we can begin to overcome it. The moment I realized that I couldn’t hide it and overcome it on my own. That moment was the turning point for me. This verse just sums it up for me. :)
Amen!!!! Going through this as well!
Amen! Thank you for sharing, your words spoke those on my own heart!
These comments! Thank you ladies! My focus: He must increase, but I must decrease! (Vs 30) this has been pointed out to me again and again and yet I fall into my earthly ways and put myself first. But God can change that!
Very true! Such a good reminder
Yes! Love that verse too, Layna.
I bookmarked this verse as well. I need to ask God’s help with this daily!
I noticed a contrast between Noah and Jesus (John 3) Noah was a righteous man God used but the world was condemned as a result….while Christ was one righteous man used by God to deliver all of the wicked world from condemnation….and I found it interesting that the condemned people in Noah’s time and our present time seem totally unaware or ignorant to their condition. :/ I feel I need to make more of an effort to share Christ with those who don’t believe in him. Did anyone else notice this or have thoughts to any other contrasts?
Wow that is an amazing observation!!! And it shows how love is more powerful than condemnation. Love brings the light more than condemnation. Love allows us to look into ourselves and see the sin, so we can humbly ask God to transform us. Ah I love it!
I love that you are able to fix your focus on the power of his love overcoming condemnation ❤️
It always gets me in Genesis 9:18-29 when Canaan is cursed for his father’s sin. It doesn’t seem fair, and I tend to have a very fair and just way of thinking and viewing the world. I think that even if I don’t agree with someone else being punished for the sins of others, it is true. Sometimes other people’s actions affect me. More importantly, I can see that my actions affect others. The way I choose to live today could have an effect on the people around me and my descendants in the future. It puts some weight on the choices I make today knowing that I can’t just think about myself and how my actions affect me.
I think it also shows how powerful the things we speak about others (especially parents to children ) can be. To be cursed or blessed by someone is a common theme in scripture. I think it reminds us fair or not we have the gift/ability to bless others by what we speak…maybe Noah wasn’t thinking clearly since he hadn’t been sober….??? But once he said it he couldn’t take it back. What do you think?
I am reminded how we take certain things for granted, like the sighting of a rainbow! It is not just ‘a rainbow’. It is intertwined with such magnificence…
I never read John 3, like I did today. We can’t open anyone’s eyes. The Spirit is given in abundance!! Each person had to decide. Not my task to shove religion points to anyone, that is God’s job…and He doesn’t shove!
I also love where it says that the son of God didn’t come into the world to “condemn” us… Powerful to say the least! Most of us miss this point (at least I do!). The tendency to walk around in condemnation & defeat can be greater, than walking around in the actual truth! God sent His son to ~save~ us, plain & simple! If we receive it or not, each person decides…
Thank you for your words! ❤️ It amazes me to think of that, the love that God show to everyone.
What exactly happened there at the end of Gen 9? Why did Noah curse Cannan? Any thoughts?
Is he punishing Canaan because Ham saw him naked in the tent? That would be my conclusion.
Hiya! What I got was the fact that although Ham saw Noah naked (probably unintentionally) he brought shame to his father by speaking of it to his brothers and Noah punished him and his descendants (the Canaanites) for it! :)
Oh yeah that makes a lot of sense, thanks!!
Thank you! I didn’t understand this at all, but your explanation makes sense.
i was wondering this too thank you :)
Wasn’t it because he didn’t respect his father? Instead of covering him up and hiding his fathers shame from the others; he ran to show his brothers. The bible takes disrespecting our parents very seriously. There may be a different reason, but that is how I’ve always thought about it.
Maybe it’s because our parent child dynamic is supposed to be a picture of Gods parental dynamic with us. When we dishonor our parents we dishonor God :/ I’m trying to better learn from this even as an adult.
I never considered the parallel between Noah and his son and God and us, I’m glad you pointed that out!
Great point!
I hadn’t thought of it that way! Thanks for your insight.
You are right Roslyn. Ham broadcast, rather than covered, his father’s immodesty.
Two things this morning:
1. “But God remembered Noah …”. It’s been said before but the words “but God” have to be the best parts of Scripture. Wouldn’t it be fascinating to do a study of all of the times this phrase shows up?? They change the direction of life. They give hope to all who despair. “But God!”
2. The rainbow. Used by God as a symbol of His promise. We do this with wedding rings. It’s a picture of a great promise. God WANTED to make a covenant with people! That’s amazing. This God created the world out of nothing, and then used a flood to destroy most of it. His power is limitless. But He still wants to have a relationship with His creation. So thankful!
Yes for that phrase. But also a study on, “God remembered”
Ah! Thanks!!! I was trying to figure out what God’s bow was!!!
One of my favorite “But God” verses is 1 Cor. 10:13 “No temptation has come upon you except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out so that you may be able to endure it. ” I want to dig deeper into this!! Thank you.
Thank you ladies! Y’all’s comments always open my eyes to things I didn’t see or didn’t understand the first time around.
Today 2 things really stuck out to me Genesis 6:22 & 7:5. Noah did everything God/the Lord commanded. To have faith like that blows my mind. I am always such a questioner, you know “Lord really this what you want me to do, or are you sure Lord?” I want to be more like Noah and just be a doer no questions asked.
I am the same way! I always question, I am going to strive to be more like Noah
That stuck out to me too, Allyson! I find myself getting caught up in the “analysis paralysis” as my family calls it when it comes to decision making, especially with big decisions like internships and summer jobs (I’m currently a college student so every decision feels like a big one to me). But God has really been teaching me lately to stop questioning and just GO or DO! What faith Noah must’ve had!
John 3:30 is my prayer for life. ” He must become greater; I must become less.” Wow! That hit home because it’s something we all say and truly want for our souls, but it is written!
Yes! That is a wonderful prayer..it’s my life motto. Thanks for pointing that out.
I totally agree. It stood out to me as well. Love that verse.
I underlined that verse – what a wonderful way to start out a new year! I pray that we are all able to make Him greater in 2015.
Verse 30 reminds us John knew that he was less than Jesus. I must also seal this in my heart. Our purpose is to be a servant for Christ, and we shouldn’t consider ourselves better than others. We are to be humble and to allow ourselves to be used by God.
True, yet also interesting is that when the complains were directed to Jesus about John, the reply came from John. He was not weak in his boasting, but confident. And understood that each of us have been assigned our own unique gifts…
I am struck in Genesis 8 where God says that ‘every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood…’ And yet in John 3 He sends His one and only Son. (3:16) he knows our heart condition- it has never changed since the flood- and His love for us is so great – He does all He can to provide for us – even giving up His only Son. Amazing grace and love.
That stood out to me today too Maribeth, and also in Gen 4:8. He knows how sinful, deceitful, hurtful we all are, but he sends His son because of His great love for us. How can that be?! God is really speaking to me about my sin heart and how I really have been thinking I didn’t have much. “EVERY inclination of the human heart is evil FROM CHOLDHOOD” (8:21b) Woe!
The part of “every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood” also tugged at my heart… A pondering point.
That’s a great connection between the two passages. I too and trying to read each passage with fresh eyes, trying to learn what God has to teach me. I love understanding the connections between the OT and NT. It’s beautiful how God has so faithfully kept his promises to us throughout time.
Agreed Gabrielle! I also love seeing these connections between OT and NT!
This is a section that is hitting me today too. We then see the reflection in John 3:19 … but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.
I have always heard that we are born pure and learn the ways of evil. But what I am seeing here is that no matter what, being born into this world corrupts us. And the real journey is to find the light, the truth and live in that. That is how God sees us and how we get to experience him.
How epic and loving is God!!!!! Praise Him and His Son!
I love that!!! I thank God for this information
I’m really enjoying the comments here. I’ve read these stories time and time again because of my history and I have a very hard time reading with fresh eyes. My prayer each day before I read is, “Give me fresh eyes to see more, to know You more.”
I love this… fresh eyes! You are right, most of us know these stories like the back of our hand. I am really having to slow down and not glaze over the details. For example, my heart broke when I read yesterday in Genesis that God regretted making mankind–that is huge! But God (how many times do we hear that wonderful phrase?!) had mercy and started over! I am overcome with such grace and love.
❤️
Verse 6:6 really tore me up too!!
Yes! I am absolutely going to pray for fresh eyes each day. Thanks! I have read Genesis so many times but each time, I feel/hear/see something new.
Genesis 8:1 seems to be a beautiful foreshadowing of Ephesians 2:4 “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,”
That simple phrase “but GOD” is a history shaper.
Thanks for pointing that out. Genesis 8:1 also reminds me that even when I may feel God has abandoned me after I take the leap of faith he has asked of me. I may not be able to see all that is ahead but I can rest assured that he has not forgotten me and that he promised all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
I like that reminder Claire, thanks!
Such a great reminder Claire! I also loved reading this verse, and connecting it with John 3 – God remembered us in the most beautiful way by sending his son to redeem us.
Thanks Claire for that insight – I needed to hear that! Find myself in a place where I felt forgotten by God after a leap- but I must trust-even when the the waters have not receded! He has not forgotten!
As I’ve grown in my walk the last couple of years those two words have definitely become my favorite phrase
Let’s remember v 34… ‘God gives His Spirit without limit.’ We are limited but He is not! Holy Spirit we need you and want more of you!
Thanks for pointing this out! I missed it the first time through but was struck by how powerful those words are the second time around.
I love that! Same as Ansley, thanks for pointing it out!
How did I miss this too?! Love it. So encouraging.
How did I miss this too?! Love it. So encouraging.
I missed it too! Wow thank you!
That phrase cut to my heart too! How awesome is it to know that the Spirit that lives in us is without limit? With God all things are possible, I just need to trust!
…We have to decrease so He can increase…
Amen! Thank you for highlighting that!
So good!!
I love how it reveals that we share in His inheritance, it gives me hope when I look around at the mess the world is in, as my Pastor always says, this is the closest to hell we will ever be
Day 3 of reading through the Bible and I am already hooked and mesmerized!!! I pray that God will continue to let His Word illuminate each time I read it. I also pray that I keep the burning desire to read the history of the world as God orchestrated throughout time! Thank you She Reads Truth for prayerfully surrendering to God’s call to give us His Word and challenging us to read it for ourselves everyday!!
Yes this plan is a God-send for me as well. I was a bit afraid of reading through the book of Genesis because i’ve heard the story so many times before. I never realized how much it would teach me. And the comments. What a better way to study the bible than having other women of God read it with me, asking questions I would never have thought of and explaining things that were hard for me to understand. You Ladies will never know what an answer to prayer this is for me. :)
I agree, ladies. A true God send…
I feel the same! I pray we keep up with our reading and may we be strong willed to read it for the whole year :)