Grace in the Midst of Ruin

Day 1 of 11 | Noah Study


📖 Scripture

“The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart. But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.”
Genesis 6:5–8 (ESV)


📚 Background

By Genesis 6, humanity had spiraled far from God’s original design. The wickedness wasn’t just outward behavior—it permeated the heart, mind, and soul. God, in His holiness and love, grieved over this brokenness. In the sea of corruption, one man stands out—not for perfection, but for walking with God. This is the beginning of Noah’s story—not with an ark, but with favor.


💬 Devotional

When we think of Noah, we often jump straight to the ark, the animals, and the flood. But the most profound part of his story begins right here: “Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” Before God gave Noah instructions, before any rain fell, there was grace.

The contrast in these verses is stunning. On one side: humanity’s overwhelming wickedness. On the other: God’s deep sorrow. Yet in the middle stands Noah—an ordinary man caught in the current of chaos, yet chosen by God. Not because he was flawless, but because God’s grace found him faithful.

This is the heartbeat of the gospel, even here in Genesis: in the darkest moments, God still seeks out those who are willing to walk with Him. And He gives favor—not as a reward, but as a calling. Noah’s story reminds us that grace is the starting point of every redemptive journey.


🔍 Reflection

  1. How does it affect you to know that God grieves over the brokenness of the world?
  2. What does “finding favor” with God mean to you personally?
  3. Are there areas in your life where God might be calling you to walk differently than the world around you?

🙏 Prayer

Father,
Thank You that grace begins before I even take a step. In a world filled with noise, help me to hear Your voice and follow You faithfully. Teach me to walk with integrity even when it’s unpopular. Let me find favor not because I am worthy, but because You are merciful. Use my life as a light in dark places. Amen.


🛠️ Application

Today, pause and examine your heart. What “cultural currents” might be pulling you away from God’s ways? Write down one area where you want to walk differently—and take one small step in obedience.


📌 Takeaway

Even when the world drowns in sin, grace floats. God looks not for the flawless, but for the faithful.

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Verse of the Day

Isaiah 30:15 (NIV)
“This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…’