A terrible storm with subsequent avalanches ravaged the Annapurna region of Nepal. The area is a popular one for hikers from around the world, and many were caught out on the mountains, leading to their death from the cold or the avalanches. Astonishingly, rescue attempts were hampered as crews were forced to assist new hikers to the area—those who still wanted to challenge the mountains despite the obvious dangers and repeated warnings. The likelihood of more avalanches was great, while high winds and impossible navigation over paths that had simply disappeared made it extremely dangerous.
Noah knew all about warning people of impending danger.
You likely know the story of the great flood and the fact that Noah was found to be righteous in God’s eyes (Genesis 6:9). But the reference in 2 Peter that Noah “warned the world of God’s righteous judgment” shows that he must have been doing something more than just building an ark! (2 Peter 2:5).
It’s clear that Noah was telling the people around him to turn back to God and away from their sin. Peter describes him as a herald—someone telling of God and His right ways to a generation that had been pursuing evil.
Peter used this Genesis account to show how important it was for his own generation to turn back to God. He wanted his readers and listeners to know that God compassionately desires that people turn from their sin and find forgiveness in Him, for His judgment of sin is far more serious than avalanches or storms. Yet many people continue to head down dangerous paths away from God. May we be prepared, as Peter instructed, to lovingly warn others and encourage them to find their rescue in Jesus (1 Peter 3:15).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Matthew 14:13-36
More:
Consider the words of Jude 1:14-15 and what it means to warn and encourage people to turn back to God.
Next:
How prepared are you to share your faith with others? What will you do today to share God’s good news with those around you?
Gary Shultz on July 17, 2016 at 6:51 am
Hi Russell, anyone today familiar with the Noah story and the subsequent scripture “Just as it was in the days of Noah” has to consider that statement in light of our present day affair. As did Noah’s family, being a testimony, we still need to be pointing out that the path being taken certainly leads to destruction, and figure out how to do it in love. I think at times people’s thoughts convict them, either they don’t care or really believe that God is relevant. Some are just totally opposed to anything of a godly nature, as Jude refers…. As the folks at Nepal, we may not be able to save all, but we should certainly warn those we can. Wasn’t Noah’s action a constant reminder and wonderment to people in his day? Thanks Russell, it won’t be an ark this time.
hsnpoor on July 17, 2016 at 8:53 am
“In love” is the key and the hard part for me. I start there, but have difficulty remaining there in the face of opposition. It’s still love, but the expression can get a bit shrill when it hits a brick wall. Prayer, please….
crossman61 on July 17, 2016 at 11:21 am
I understand what you mean . I fail at times with this also hsnpoor Kim . I will Pray for you and I could use it too please..
hsnpoor on July 17, 2016 at 4:27 pm
I’ve prayed for you and will remember you as I continue to pray on this in the future, Gary too.
crossman61 on July 17, 2016 at 11:15 am
Thanks Russell , I like this, to compare how we as humans can be Rebellious . There are warning signs we should pay careful attention to, just through life’s situations we face. And Gods warnings for us in His Word . I do like hiking , never was overly obsessed with it . And what I call hiking a mountain, probably compares to hill climbing in what these mountains are in Nepal . I never could understand why someone would allow themselves to be put in these dangerous predicaments . Maybe its because I already have enough physical pain , I don’t want to inflict more on myself ? I believe I would do it ,if it were to help someone else . Or if it were somehow to exalt Our Father in Heaven I would do it . The Minister of the Church I attend has been hiking very challenging mountains for 30+ years , he does have some inspiring stories of the views he has seen , And he knows its all from Our Creator . A few years ago I was mountain/hill climbing with a buddy and I was struggling on this 40 minute hike , and as I was doubting if I could make it to the top , I said to him , Is this is what Jesus was talking about when he says with enough Faith we can move mountains ? we were moving the mountain under our feet every step we took , and keeping the faith we made it to the top. I usually try to look at things humorously . when I am being challenged.
gagirllive on July 17, 2016 at 7:51 pm
Please pray for our country…for our world. And let’s make every effort to show others the Way.
hsnpoor on July 18, 2016 at 7:04 am
You know it, GF!