January 3
Faith in God’s Sustaining Power
Today's Reading
Old Testament
- Genesis 6-8
- Psalm 104
- Mark 3
Devotion
In Genesis 6-8, we read the story of Noah, a man who found favor with God in a time when wickedness covered the earth. Amid widespread sin, God chose Noah because of his faithfulness, instructing him to build an ark to preserve life from the impending flood. Noah obeyed, building the ark and gathering his family and the animals as God commanded. The flood was a powerful demonstration of both God’s justice and His mercy. While sin was judged, God also provided a way for life to be renewed and restored through Noah and his family. When the floodwaters finally receded, God made a covenant, promising never to destroy the earth in that way again. The rainbow, a sign of this covenant, reminds us of God’s commitment to His creation and His mercy toward us.
Psalm 104 beautifully echoes the wonder of God’s sustaining power over creation, celebrating His handiwork and His provision for every living thing. Every part of creation—the mountains, the seas, the creatures, the seasons—bears witness to God’s power and His care. The psalmist’s praise reminds us that God’s faithfulness sustains all things, from the smallest creature to the vast oceans, just as He sustained Noah through the flood.
In Mark 3, we see Jesus embodying this sustaining love as He heals, teaches, and calls His disciples to join Him. When He heals on the Sabbath, He challenges people to understand that God’s love and mercy are at the heart of His law. Jesus’ authority to heal and forgive shows us that He is Lord over all creation, actively restoring and renewing it. Just as God sustained Noah through the storm, Jesus sustains us, inviting us into a relationship where we find healing, rest, and purpose.
Each of these passages reveals God’s unwavering faithfulness. In the midst of floods, storms, and trials, God provides a way for life to continue and for hope to be restored. Noah’s story reminds us that even when the world feels chaotic, God’s promises stand firm. Just as Jesus called His disciples to follow Him in faith, He calls us to trust in His sustaining love, knowing He is with us through every challenge.
Psalm 104 beautifully echoes the wonder of God’s sustaining power over creation, celebrating His handiwork and His provision for every living thing. Every part of creation—the mountains, the seas, the creatures, the seasons—bears witness to God’s power and His care. The psalmist’s praise reminds us that God’s faithfulness sustains all things, from the smallest creature to the vast oceans, just as He sustained Noah through the flood.
In Mark 3, we see Jesus embodying this sustaining love as He heals, teaches, and calls His disciples to join Him. When He heals on the Sabbath, He challenges people to understand that God’s love and mercy are at the heart of His law. Jesus’ authority to heal and forgive shows us that He is Lord over all creation, actively restoring and renewing it. Just as God sustained Noah through the storm, Jesus sustains us, inviting us into a relationship where we find healing, rest, and purpose.
Each of these passages reveals God’s unwavering faithfulness. In the midst of floods, storms, and trials, God provides a way for life to continue and for hope to be restored. Noah’s story reminds us that even when the world feels chaotic, God’s promises stand firm. Just as Jesus called His disciples to follow Him in faith, He calls us to trust in His sustaining love, knowing He is with us through every challenge.
Reflection Questions
- How do you see God’s hand sustaining you through difficult times?
- What does Noah’s story teach you about obedience and faith in God’s promises?
- How can you respond to God’s love and sustaining power in your daily life?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness and sustaining love. When life feels overwhelming, help us remember that You are with us, guiding and protecting us. Thank You for the example of Noah’s faith and the reminder of Your power in creation. Help us to trust in You more deeply, to walk in obedience, and to reflect Your love to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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