Year of the Bible: Part One of Twelveনমুনা

Noah: A "New Adam."

Stop here and read today's scriptures.

Starting again is difficult, especially when the outcome of such a "restart" is uncertain. Noah certainly would have felt a level of uncertainty about the effects of all that had recently taken place.

Question: Is God inviting you to start fresh in your relationship with Him or someone else? Maybe, He wants to teach you new ways of relating to your spouse, family, and friends or a new way to run your business or be involved in your community. One thing is sure; God is inviting you into new places. Will you say yes?

Prayer Focus: Courage is required when following Jesus and accessed only when we step into the place where it is needed. Humble yourself and ask for the courage you need to take the next step in your walk with Him.

Go Deeper: We see God give Noah a command to be fruitful and multiply. (This command is the same command he gave to Adam and Eve.) This reset in the world is an opportunity to do things God's way. Yet, once again, we see controversy and choices resulting in curses. When Ham looks upon and gossips about his father's nakedness, Noah Curses Canaan, Ham's youngest son. This instance is the first time we hear Noah speak in Scripture. Sadly, it is a curse. The controversy with Ham tainted the opportunity for a restart with Noah and his sons.

How often do you start something and have fresh eyes, only to be taken down a notch or two by an emergency, a wrong choice, or making a mistake that you regret? Today's passage reminds you that human experience has been similar throughout history. Yet, You have new life in Jesus; the curses spoken throughout human experience have no hold on you because of the finished work of Jesus on the Cross. He offers you a new start every morning because He is healing all your wrongs. What a joy to be renewed in Him!