How long did it take Noah to build the ark? And why does it matter?

As I’m reading through the Bible according to the chart that I sent you last week, I’ve hit upon Noah and his ark. It made me think, “That’s a massive ship that Noah built. Couldn’t God simply provide the ship to Noah rather than having him build it?”

What would be the purpose in having Noah build the ship?

The whole time he was building it, he had to exercise faith. He had to endure ridicule from his neighbors. He probably had to deal with family members who were incredulous. He might have had doubt himself as to whether it was really going to happen! After all, nothing like that has ever happened!

It is hard living by faith. Every inclination is to live by sight and live like everyone else around. And thoughts like, “Am I nuts? How do I know if God is real? Am I just wasting my time? Why shouldn’t I just live for the world which I KNOW is real?”

Obey, and then you will see… That’s how God works.

Problem: The way we think is, “God, show me and then I will obey.” But God sits there and says, “Obey first, and then you will see!”
so, we are at an impasse. And guess who can wait longer?

If you’re having a crisis of belief, obey. “But I need evidence first, you say.” Obey and you will see evidence….

What is God convicting you to do?
What is God telling you to throw off?
Where is God telling you not to visit?
What are you telling yourself is not sin even though your conscience says otherwise?

Obey. And you will see.

PH