Love God Greatly: In the BeginningSample

The meaning of Genesis 6:1-4 is debated by evangelical scholars. One possible interpretation says the sons of God were the line of Seth and the daughters of men were descendants of Cain. Cain’s wicked descendants enticed Seth’s descendants, who were committed to God, to sin. Another interpretation believes the sons of God were fallen angels who left their position in heaven and the daughters of men were women whom they slept with. 

While we do not know definitively the actual meaning of these verses, the hearts of people had clearly become wicked. Wickedness became great and every thought from every mind was evil. The Lord was offended and even regretted making humans. 

But grace. Even in the midst of such wickedness, even in the midst of a horrible offense against Him, God provided redemption. Noah found favor in the eyes of God, not by anything he had done, but by God’s grace alone. God extended grace to humanity, allowing the race to continue through Noah’s family.

Humanity is still wicked and sinful. We have been born into sinful existence, always turning away from God. We have all fallen short of His glory and righteousness. God justifies us anyway. God is rich in mercy, full of love, and great in compassion. He overwhelms us with His grace by sending a redeemer, Jesus Christ. We have all sinned and fallen short of His standard, but by His grace alone, we are justified and redeemed.

Prayer:

Lord God, I am in awe of Your grace. I am undeserving of Your incredible love and compassion. I do not deserve Your grace and Your redemption. I praise You for Your kindness and forgiveness to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.