READ GENESIS 8
GO DEEPER
If you have ever encountered a thunderstorm or flood, you are likely familiar with the peaceful and quiet aftermath. The silence can be almost eerie, as we wait for signs of life as well as to assess the damage and to formulate a plan to rebuild and start anew.
Whether we have faced a literal or metaphorical storm in our lives, we often find ourselves questioning if God has forgotten us and if He is there, paying attention.
In Genesis 8, we are met with a reassuring response to our inquiries. In the calm following the storm, it is mentioned that “God remembered Noah” (vs. 1). In the Hebrew language, the word “remember” holds a deeper meaning than its English counterpart. It encompasses not just recalling someone but also taking action on their behalf. This concept of remembering in Hebrew always entails acting on behalf of the individual brought to mind. Therefore, when God remembered Noah, He turned His attention to him and took action on his behalf.
Following the devastation and desolation, God remembered and intervened. He formulated a plan to assist, restore, and rebuild when Noah was unable to do so for himself. This divine intervention is evident throughout Scripture and in our lives - God offers us new beginnings, restores us, and saves us when we are unable to save ourselves.
Rest assured, God has not forgotten you. Although you may be going through a painful season and cannot see a way for things to be rebuilt or restored, God sees you. He knows your situation and is attentive to your needs. He was in control when the storms began as well as when the storm ceased, and He remains in control today. God is good, trustworthy, and can be relied upon.
QUESTIONS
1. After departing the ark, the initial action Noah took was constructing an altar and presenting a sacrifice. What do you believe was his motivation for doing so?
2. Noah chose to wait for guidance from the Lord before leaving the ark. In what areas of your life should you seek God's instruction before taking action?
3. Understanding that in Hebrew culture, remembrance involves taking tangible actions to assist the individual being remembered, how does this realization impact your viewpoint?