Devotions – Page 20

CATEGORY ARCHIVES: Devotions

By Faith

Posted by Karah

Pause

Ponder this quote from A.W. Tozer as you begin your quiet time:

“The man that believes will obey; failure to obey is convincing proof that there is no true faith present.”

Think about people in your life who you have to obey: teachers, parents, and others in positions of authority. What’s the reason behind your obedience? Respect? Love? You just don’t want to get in trouble? Journal your response.

Skim over Genesis 6:1-22 in your Bible. As you read, underline any words or phrases that help you to understand what fueled Noah’s obedience to God.

Read Hebrews 11:7. Look for the word or words that describe why Noah obeyed God.

“By faith Noah, after he was warned about what was not yet seen and motivated by godly fear, built an ark to deliver his family. By faith he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.” —Hebrews 11:7

Noah’s obedience was good, but meaningless without faith. Look back at Cain and Abel’s story to refresh your memory. God knows what fuels your obedience to Him, and it matters. He knows when you’re faking it, and He’s not fooled when your motivation to obey is more about having a good reputation or the fear of getting caught than honoring Him.

It’s easy to get the idea that your obedience to God can earn you favor with Him. But that’s not what Hebrews 11:7 describes. God warned Noah that destruction was coming and Noah obeyed Him, building the ark. Noah’s faith fueled his obedience, not the other way around.

The Point

Noah’s obedience flowed from His faith. Our faith should fuel our obedience to God, too.

Respond

What fuels your obedience to God? Examine your relationship with God and motives for obeying Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth and confess any motivation that doesn’t come from faith.

Are there specific ways that you know God is calling you to be obedient to Him, but you haven’t taken any steps to do so? Now is the time to step out in faith. Jot down two steps you’ll take to follow Jesus in obedience in those areas this week.

For further study, read 1 John 5:3.

Behind the Story

Noah isn’t the only one described as obeying God because of faith. The entire chapter of Hebrews 11 records men and women whose faith fueled their obedience to God in the most difficult of circumstances. Clearly, faith is key to God’s redemption story. Faith brings a confidence in God’s promises and shows our trust in His character.

Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Weekly Devotions | Leave a reply

The God Who Rescues

Posted by Karah

Pause

Focus your heart and mind on God by singing your favorite worship songs. Consider “Came to My Rescue” by Hillsong Live (The Very Best of Hillsong Live, 2010).

Think about a time when you needed someone to rescue you from something. Maybe you were involved in an accident, trapped by the consequences of your own decisions, or unable to free yourself from a situation. What kinds of emotions did you feel when your rescuer arrived? How did you feel when you were free? Jot down a few thoughts.

The truth is that we all need to be rescued from sin. It overpowers and enslaves us. There is nothing we can do to rescue ourselves. The good news is that God has already provided our rescue in Jesus.

Read Genesis 6:17-18 in your Bible and Romans 5:8-9 on this page. Keep both open at once and consider the questions below:

“But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us! Much more then, since we have now been declared righteous by His blood, we will be saved through Him from wrath.” —Romans 5:8-9

What word begins both Romans 5:8 and Genesis 6:18? How does this word help us to see that something is about to change, that hope is on the way?

In both passages, sin caused the issue. But in both passages, God came through. How did He do that in each passage? Explain.

God provided the ark which saved Noah, his family, and the animals from God’s wrath against sin. How did Jesus do the same for us? Explain it in your own words.

The Point

God provided a rescue for Noah and He does the same for us in Jesus.

Respond

When you read Noah’s story, you can know that God values your life just as much as Noah’s. The thing is, you don’t have to build an ark to be rescued. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, God built the bridge Himself; all He requires from you is faith.

When did you first realize that you were a sinner who needed to be rescued from sin? If you have never sought forgiveness from your sins and placed your faith in Christ, talk to someone about doing that today!

If you are a believer, thank Him for rescuing you. Praise Him for being your Rescuer.

For further study, read Galatians 1:3-4; Colossians 1:13; and 1 Thessalonians 1:8-10.

Behind the Story

God’s wrath didn’t end with the flood. God never changes, and His anger regarding sin is the same today as it was in the days of Noah. God is holy, and He cannot tolerate sin. But Christians can rest in Jesus because He took God’s wrath upon Himself on the cross so we would never have to face it.

New Beginnings

Posted by Karah

Pause

Consider this quote from Louis L’Amour:

“There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. Yet that will be the beginning.”

“Then God spoke to Noah, ‘Come out of the ark, you, your wife, your sons, and your sons’ wives with you. Bring out all the living creatures that are with you—birds, livestock, those that crawl on the ground—and they will spread over the earth and be fruitful and multiply on the earth.’” —Genesis 8:15-17

Read Genesis 8:1–9:17 in your Bible. As you read, look for examples of new life and new beginnings.

Now, focus on verses 15-19. Ask yourself:

Compare Genesis 8:15-19 to Genesis 1:26-28. How are they similar? Why is it more accurate to recognize the flood as a new beginning rather than an ending?

Consider the quote above. What does it have to do with today’s passage? Explain.

We often say that God makes all things new. Today’s passage is a clear example of that idea. What has God made new in your life?

The Point

God is a God who makes all things new.

Respond

God didn’t destroy the earth to end it; He made all things new. Take some time to reflect today on the things God desires to put an end to in your life and the new things He wants you to experience as a result. Record your response as a prayer in the space below.

For further study:

Read 2 Corinthians 5:17 and John 10:10.

Check out “A New Beginning” by Sally Lloyd-Jones in The Jesus Storybook Bible.

Behind the Story

God didn’t tell Noah to come out of the ark until the earth was dry. It wasn’t a muddy mess, evidenced by the fact that the first thing Noah did when he came out was build an altar of fire. Sometimes we have to wait on God’s promises to be fulfilled, but when He does fulfill them, He does so with completion.

Means and Method

Posted by Karah

Pause

Reflect on this quote from the Holman Old Testament Commentary to begin your time with God:

“Man does not earn God’s grace, but he is to respond to it appropriately.”

Turn to Genesis 7 in your Bible and read the entire chapter. Picture Noah and his family, the ark, and the animals. Think about the emotions they would have felt and the things they would have seen and heard.

“So Noah, his sons, his wife, and his sons’ wives entered the ark because of the waters of the flood.” —Genesis 7:7

Consider this:

God had been very clear about the destruction that was coming to the world. He’d given Noah detailed instructions about the rescue He would provide. But Noah and his family would not experience God’s salvation until they placed their faith in the means of rescue He had provided. To be saved, they had to get on the ark.

Think through these questions:

The ark was the means of rescue God provided; Noah’s obedience was the method. How does this truth relate to the rest of God’s story of redemption? How does it relate to you?

God is still offering salvation to us today. How would you explain God’s plan of salvation in your own words?

Think about the world today. Where do you see people trying to find salvation instead of in Christ?

The Point

God made provision for His people, but they had to trust the means of salvation He had provided.

Respond

Noah responded in faith in the midst of a faithless, godless world. Pray that you will respond the same way in today’s world.

Salvation is found in no one but Jesus. You can’t earn it, nor is it based on anything you can do. Admit to God any false ideas you’ve allowed to shape your understanding of salvation. Ask Him to help you focus on Christ alone.

Behind the Story

Noah was 600 years old when the flood came. He had lived among godless people for centuries, and now, in his old age, God wanted to use him to start things over. At this point, saving himself probably wasn’t all that important to Noah. He had lived life already. Why spend 40 days on an ark with a bunch of animals only to step off that boat still a tired 600-years-old? Because until God calls us home, He calls us to obey His commands in faith.

Finding Favor

Posted by Karah

Pause

You may be so familiar with the story of Noah that you think there’s nothing left to learn. Skim over all of Genesis 6. Ask God to bring you face-to-face with its truths in a fresh new way.

Read Genesis 6:5-10 carefully. Note everything these verses reveal about Noah and his character. Record your findings.

“Noah, however, found favor in the sight of the Lord. These are the family records of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among his contemporaries; Noah walked with God.” —Genesis 6:8-9

Consider these questions:

Look closely at verse 9. Noah, like his ancestor Enoch, walked with God. What does that tell you about the kind of relationship he had with God? Explain.

Compare how God described the world in Genesis 6:5 to how Noah is described in the verses you studied today. How was Noah different from the rest of the world?

From the beginning, God’s story has been one of bringing people into relationship with Him. Why is it important that at this point in history, when the world was dark with sin, God was still seeking out people of faith like Noah to follow Him? Explain.

The Point

The world was rife with sin, but God was intent on redemption. He chose to move His story forward through Noah.

Respond

Like Noah, you play a part in God’s redemption story. How He uses you to have an impact on the future depends, in part, on your willingness to walk with Him. Like Noah, when you walk with God, you can be a glimmer of His light in a dark world. In your journal, record a prayer of commitment.

Thank God for His favor in your life. Be specific about ways He has shown you favor and blessed you.

For further study about the kind of people who find favor in God’s eyes, read Psalm 84:11; 2 Chronicles 16:9; and Proverbs 3:33-35.

Behind the Story

Noah’s father was named Lamech, not to be confused with Lamech the descendent of Cain. Noah came from the line of Seth, the godly line. Interestingly, both Lamechs are the only people in their genealogies who have quotations attributed to them. The Cainite Lamech spoke of murder and violence (Gen. 4:23-24); while Noah’s father spoke words of hope (Gen. 5:29). Lamech declared that his son would bring relief to humanity from the wearying labor that had resulted from Adam’s sin.

Walk with God

Posted by Karah

Pause

Reflect on what you’ve learned the past few weeks about the destruction of sin and redemption of God. Thank God for making a way for you to have a relationship with Him.

Read Genesis 5:1-32 in your Bible, then focus on verses 21-24.

“Enoch was 65 years old when he fathered Methuselah. And after the birth of Methuselah, Enoch walked with God 300 years and fathered other sons and daughters. So Enoch’s life lasted 365 years. Enoch walked with God, and he was not there because God took him.” —Genesis 5:21-24

Dig a little deeper by answering these questions:

Look over the list of names in this passage. How is the description of Enoch different from everyone else’s description? Explain.

In Scripture, the phrase “walked with God” denotes a close fellowship with God. The term literally means to walk about or live with God. Enoch’s life was characterized by his devotion to God. Every part of his life was focused on and submitted to God.

Does that describe your relationship with God? Why or why not?

How would you describe your own relationship with God? Is it like a casual acquaintance? Best friends who talk about everything? Extended family who only gets together on holidays? Neighbors who see each other but don’t talk much? Explain your answer.

What keeps you from walking more closely with God? Be specific.

The Point

God offers redemption so we can have a deep, personal, ongoing relationship with Him. Our lives should show the world what redemption really looks like.

Respond

As Christians, we are called to walk with God daily, living out His story of redemption in a world that is held captive by sin.

Look at your list of things that you are allowing to keep you from walking more closely with God. Honestly admit them to God and turn from them. Ask God to focus your heart and mind on pleasing Him in every part of your life.

Focusing your mind, heart, and life on God isn’t something that just happens. It takes discipline. You have to be intentional about pursuing Him, talking to Him, studying His Word, and applying it to your life. Make an appointment to meet with God on your calendar each day this week and keep your appointments!

To learn more about Enoch, read and study Hebrews 11:5.

Behind the Story

A prominent phrase in Genesis 5 is “then he died.” Enoch’s description is the exception. Hebrews 11:5 declares that Enoch did not experience death, but that God took him away because Enoch pleased Him. Enoch is one of two people in Scripture who did not experience physical death. Elijah is the other (2 Kings 2:11).

Greater Love

Posted by Karah

Pause

Listen to a worship song to begin your quiet time. Ask God to open your eyes to those He places in your path today.

Think about a time when someone reached out to you in kindness or a time when someone failed to do so. What difference does it make when someone cares for another? Journal your response.

“Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Where is your brother Abel?’ ‘I don’t know,’ he replied. ‘Am I my brother’s guardian?’ —Genesis 4:9

Return to Genesis 4:1-10 and skim over the passage. Then, focus on verse 9. Think through these questions:

Read Cain’s response to God in verse 9 aloud. What words would you use to describe his attitude toward God as reflected in that answer?

Cain and Abel were brothers. God had placed them in a relationship that involved mutual respect, love, and care. Cain had a responsibility to honor and protect Abel, and he chose the opposite. In what way has your attitude toward others been like Cain’s?

We live in a world full of people who truly care about others. But as believers, how does the redemption we’ve received from Christ make our compassion toward others different?

The Point

Because of Christ’s redemption, we have the ability to love and care for others with a depth that people don’t have apart from Him.

Respond

As Christians, our lives are not solely about ourselves and our needs. We have a responsibility to love, care for, and share the good news with the world around us.

Ask God to help you notice people who need compassion and kindness. Go out of your way this week to care for them, even when it’s inconvenient or unpleasant.

The early Christians showed God’s love during plagues that swept through the Roman Empire. Look up the selfless ways Christians cared for the sick during the plagues, then consider ways you can show others love because of Christ’s redemptive work in you. Record three ideas you’ll put into practice in your journal.

Behind the Story

God’s question to Cain in verse 9 wasn’t a request for information. God knew what Cain had done and asked the question to give Cain an opportunity to repent. It echoes the question God asked Adam in the garden (Gen. 3:9), tying both acts of disobedience together. Scholars say this is to show us that Cain’s murderous act had its antecedents in Adam’s sin.

A New Legacy

Posted by Karah

Pause

Romans 2:4 tells us that God’s kindness leads us to repentance. How has God’s kindness affected you? Meditate on His kindness as you begin your time with Him.

Skim over Genesis 4:17-24, then read Genesis 4:25-26 very carefully. Compare Cain and Seth’s legacies. We know that Cain’s sin was multiplied by his descendents. It appears that Seth’s faithfulness was also multiplied by his. If you were designing a symbol to reflect each legacy, what would you use? Write or sketch your thoughts below.

“A son was born to Seth also, and he named him Enosh. At that time people began to call on the name of Yahweh.”

—Genesis 4:26

Enosh: Like the name Adam, Enosh means humanity or humankind. The term is often used in the Old Testament to refer to the frailty or insignificance of humanity. How does Enosh’s birth mark a new and brighter future for humanity?

Call on: From a Hebrew word that can mean cry out for, preach, or proclaim. The phrase is used to denote worship of God. Even in a world riddled with sin, God was still calling people to Himself, seeking out believers who would put their faith and trust in Him.

Yahweh: God’s personal name, as revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:15. How does the use of God’s personal name reflect His desire for a relationship with humanity? How does it point to His redemptive nature? Explain.

The Point

Even though our world is immersed in sin, God is still calling people to Himself.

Behind the Story

The world described in Genesis 4 contrasts sharply with the perfection found in Genesis 1. Instead of the peace and security of the garden, the Genesis 4 world is characterized by violence, murder, and conflict. In this chapter, two groups begin to emerge: those who are indifferent to sin and those who worship the Lord. How is this a fitting description of our world today?

Respond

Prayerfully consider what kind of legacy you’re leaving. If you aren’t a Christian, you’re leaving a legacy of sin and hopelessness, like Cain. Today, will you accept God’s invitation to know Him intimately and leave a legacy of hope and faith to those around you?

If you are a Christian, think about how Seth’s dependence on God became a legacy for the generations that followed. Meditate on this question: If your faith and actions were multiplied to those around you, what kind of faith would you be passing on?

As a believer, you are a glimmer of hope in a dark world, just as Seth’s line was. What choices will you make today to proclaim the name of the Lord in your actions, words, and thoughts? Jot down three.

A New Hope

Posted by Karah

Pause

Think about a situation that seemed hopeless (and maybe still does). Praise God that all hope rests in Him. Rest in that hope as you begin today’s devotion.

Remember when it seemed like Frodo wouldn’t get the ring to Mordor? Remember when the White Witch killed Aslan and it seemed all hope was lost for Narnia?

Today, we come to a point in God’s story where it feels like all hope is lost. God’s perfect creation was shattered. Adam and Eve had been banished from the garden. Abel was dead, and Cain and his lineage of sin had spiraled out of control, wanderers with no respect for God. God had promised redemption would come from the woman’s offspring, and that seemed impossible. Or was it?

Read Genesis 4:25-26 in your Bible. Ponder these questions:

How did Seth’s birth bring renewed hope to Eve? Explain.

Now, read Luke 3:23-38. Pay close attention to verse 38.

In light of this lineage, how did Seth’s birth bring renewed hope to the entire world? Explain.

When have you or someone you know experienced something that you thought not even God could redeem? How has God shown you otherwise?

Why is it good news that God’s plan of redemption cannot be thwarted?

The Point

God’s redemptive plan isn’t limited by the sinful failures of humanity.

Respond

Think about those situations in your life that feel hopeless or impossible. Place your hope in God and His plan to make all things new. Journal your prayer.

Spend some time in prayer, asking God for the faith to trust His plan, even when it doesn’t make sense.

Behind the Story

The name Seth sounds like the Hebrew word for “granted” and the two are probably related. In Genesis 4:25, Eve attributed Seth’s birth to God’s mercy. God had granted her another son in place of the righteous Abel. Through Seth, God would fulfill His promise that Eve would be “the mother of all the living” (Gen. 3:20).

Chaos

Posted by Karah

Pause

This week, you’ll study Genesis 4 in-depth. Read over the entire chapter, prayerfully asking God to open your mind to what He has to teach you.

Last week you learned that God’s perfect world was no longer perfect. Sin had entered the world and left its mark on everything. In Genesis 4, we find a world mired in sin and characterized by murder, malice, and antagonism. Read Genesis 4:1-12 in your Bible.

“If you do what is right, won’t you be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.”

—Genesis 4:7

Reread verses 6-7, then fill in the blanks on the chart below.

Verse Cain’s Attitude God’s Response

Genesis 4:5-6

Genesis 4:8-9a

Genesis 4:9b-12

Ask yourself:

Look at verse 7. If you were writing it in your own words, what would you say?
How did God demonstrate His redemptive nature to Cain in this passage?
God gave Cain a chance to do what was right, but Cain chose to let sin fester in his heart, which led to murder. When have you chosen to allow sin to fester in your heart?

The Point

God always seeks to offer redemption, but people often choose their own destruction.

Respond

Even in a world where sin had been given free reign, God was reaching out and inviting people to turn away from sin and follow Him. Praise Him for how He has done the same thing in your life! Be specific in your praises.

Consider how easily a bad attitude can lead to destructive sin. In what ways does your attitude need to change? What will you do today to make your attitude more honoring to God?

For further study, read 1 Peter 5:8-9. Journal about how these verses compare with Genesis 4:6-7.

Behind the Story

Cain’s destructive downfall began with a poor attitude, which escalated into destructive sin. In these verses, God is closely involved with Cain, instructing him and responding to his every move. However, even with God’s clear warning and wise advice, there is no evidence that Cain ever repented of his attitude or his sin. His poor choices continued to affect his family for generations.

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I know you miss camp. Since you can't be with us, we want to bring a little Camp Ridgecrest to you each week. Here you will find weekly devotions to remind you of what you learned about God; news, pictures, and videos of camp as we make improvements or just do something ridiculous; and even some posts from the road as we travel to see you and your friends! We will update you a few times a week, so check back often!
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