Devotion

Noah's Ark: A Devotion on Faith and New Beginnings

"But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord... Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God." - Genesis 6:8-9

The story of Noah and the ark is one of the most beloved tales in the Bible, but it's much more than just a story about animals and a big boat. It's a powerful reminder about faith, obedience, and God's amazing grace.

Imagine Noah's surprise when God asked him to build a massive ark in the middle of dry land! There was no ocean in sight, no storm clouds gathering. Yet Noah trusted God's word and got to work. For years, his neighbours probably thought he was crazy as he hammered away at this enormous boat.

Sometimes God asks us to do things that don't make sense to the world around us. Maybe it's being kind to someone who's been rude to us, or standing up for what's right when everyone else stays silent. Like Noah, we're called to trust God's plan even when we can't see the whole picture.

God didn't just save Noah and his family – He made sure every kind of animal was preserved too. From the tiniest insects to the mightiest elephants, each creature had value in God's eyes. This reminds us that every person in our school community matters – everyone is precious to God.

After the flood waters receded, Noah and his family stepped onto dry ground to begin again. God placed a rainbow in the sky as a sign of hope and new beginnings.

We all need fresh starts sometimes - when we've made mistakes, said things we regret, or feel like we've disappointed others. The story of Noah reminds us that God is always ready to give us a clean slate and a new beginning.

We are looking at the story of Noah this week in Chapel and it helps us to remember Noah's example:

• Trust God's plan even when it doesn't make sense to others
• Value every person around us, just as God values every creature
• Embrace new beginnings and the opportunities they bring
• Look for God's promises – like rainbows after storms

Prayer

Lord, thank you for the example of Noah, who trusted You completely even when Your plan seemed impossible. Help us to have that same kind of faith in our daily lives. When You call us to be kind, courageous, or different from the crowd, give us the strength to obey.

Open our eyes to see every person in our community the way You see them – as precious and valuable. 

When we make mistakes or face difficult times, remind us of Your promise. Thank You that with You, every day can be a fresh start filled with hope and possibility.

Guide us to walk faithfully with You, just as Noah did, bringing Your light into our classrooms and friendships.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Blessings!

Will Wallace

Principal