Have you ever felt God asking you to do something that seemed overwhelming or didn’t make sense? If so, you’re in good company. Today, we finish Genesis chapter six, focusing on Noah and the ark—a story not just of judgment but of incredible hope. This passage reminds us of what it looks like to trust God in the middle of the unknown and embrace big obedience for a big God.

“But I will establish my covenant with you, and you will enter the ark…”  Genesis 6:18 (NIV)

Noah’s story is more than a children’s tale about animals and rainbows; it’s about God’s promise to protect and provide for those who follow Him. While the flood represents God dealing with the brokenness of humanity, the ark symbolizes salvation and hope.

God gave Noah detailed instructions: build a massive ark from cypress wood, coat it with pitch, and make it large enough to house his family and two of every kind of creature. The sheer size of the ark was staggering—450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high—larger than any ship of that era. Even modern-day visitors to the life-size ark replica in Kentucky are amazed by its magnitude. But what stands out most isn’t just the size or the instructions—it’s Noah’s response: “Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” (Genesis 6:22).

Think about that. God asked Noah to build something beyond anything he had ever seen, something that likely didn’t make sense at the time. Not only was the ark massive, but it had no rudder or sail. Noah wasn’t just building a boat; he was building trust. God didn’t ask Noah to navigate the journey—He asked him to be obedient and let Him handle the direction.

How often do we hesitate to obey God because we don’t understand the entire plan? Noah shows us that understanding isn’t always required, but obedience is.

God’s instructions also included bringing animals on board: two of every kind, with additional pairs of clean animals for future sacrifices. This wasn’t just about survival—it was about worship and continuing a relationship with God beyond the flood. Even in the middle of judgment, God was preparing for restoration.

Noah’s faithfulness wasn’t just about his obedience; it extended to his family. They boarded the ark with him, protected by his willingness to follow God. That kind of influence speaks to the power of living out our faith consistently. Our obedience can be a blessing not just for us but for those around us.

Perhaps one of the most powerful words in this passage is the word “but.” God described the coming destruction, “But I will establish my covenant with you.” (Genesis 6:18). That one word changes everything. While the world around Noah was facing judgment, God was making a promise of protection and purpose. In the face of overwhelming odds, God’s “but” introduces hope.

What are the “buts” in your life? Maybe you feel unqualified, overwhelmed, or unsure. But God has a plan. But God provides. But God is faithful.

When God calls you to something big, remember Noah’s story. Big obedience opens the door for God to work in ways beyond what you can imagine. It might not make sense at the time. It might feel overwhelming. But when God establishes His promise, you can trust that He will see it through.

God, thank You for Noah’s example of obedience and trust. Help us to listen for Your voice, even when what You ask of us seems impossible. Give us the courage to say yes, to trust You with the details, and to remember that Your promises never fail. Let us walk in big obedience to see You move in big ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ready to go deeper? Listen to the full episode : Doing Big Things For God

The Ark: A Story of Hope, Obedience, and God’s Promises

Have you ever felt God asking you to do something that seemed overwhelming or didn’t make sense? If so, you’re in good company. Today, we finish Genesis chapter six, focusing on Noah and the ark—a story not just of judgment but of incredible hope. This passage reminds us of what it looks like to trust God in the middle of the unknown and embrace big obedience for a big God.

“But I will establish my covenant with you, and you will enter the ark…”  Genesis 6:18 (NIV)

Noah’s story is more than a children’s tale about animals and rainbows; it’s about God’s promise to protect and provide for those who follow Him. While the flood represents God dealing with the brokenness of humanity, the ark symbolizes salvation and hope.

God gave Noah detailed instructions: build a massive ark from cypress wood, coat it with pitch, and make it large enough to house his family and two of every kind of creature. The sheer size of the ark was staggering—450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high—larger than any ship of that era. Even modern-day visitors to the life-size ark replica in Kentucky are amazed by its magnitude. But what stands out most isn’t just the size or the instructions—it’s Noah’s response: “Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” (Genesis 6:22).

Think about that. God asked Noah to build something beyond anything he had ever seen, something that likely didn’t make sense at the time. Not only was the ark massive, but it had no rudder or sail. Noah wasn’t just building a boat; he was building trust. God didn’t ask Noah to navigate the journey—He asked him to be obedient and let Him handle the direction.

How often do we hesitate to obey God because we don’t understand the entire plan? Noah shows us that understanding isn’t always required, but obedience is.

God’s instructions also included bringing animals on board: two of every kind, with additional pairs of clean animals for future sacrifices. This wasn’t just about survival—it was about worship and continuing a relationship with God beyond the flood. Even in the middle of judgment, God was preparing for restoration.

Noah’s faithfulness wasn’t just about his obedience; it extended to his family. They boarded the ark with him, protected by his willingness to follow God. That kind of influence speaks to the power of living out our faith consistently. Our obedience can be a blessing not just for us but for those around us.

Perhaps one of the most powerful words in this passage is the word “but.” God described the coming destruction, “But I will establish my covenant with you.” (Genesis 6:18). That one word changes everything. While the world around Noah was facing judgment, God was making a promise of protection and purpose. In the face of overwhelming odds, God’s “but” introduces hope.

What are the “buts” in your life? Maybe you feel unqualified, overwhelmed, or unsure. But God has a plan. But God provides. But God is faithful.

When God calls you to something big, remember Noah’s story. Big obedience opens the door for God to work in ways beyond what you can imagine. It might not make sense at the time. It might feel overwhelming. But when God establishes His promise, you can trust that He will see it through.

God, thank You for Noah’s example of obedience and trust. Help us to listen for Your voice, even when what You ask of us seems impossible. Give us the courage to say yes, to trust You with the details, and to remember that Your promises never fail. Let us walk in big obedience to see You move in big ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ready to go deeper? Listen to the full episode : Doing Big Things For God