(story told in Genesis 5:28-10:32)
The story of Noah begins when the world had become filled with evil and violence. People had turned away from God, and their hearts were full of wrongdoing. But one man, Noah, was different. He was righteous and walked faithfully with God. Because of this, God chose Noah to play a special role in preserving life when He decided to send a great flood to cleanse the earth.
God told Noah to build a large ark, a massive boat made of wood, and to bring his family inside. He was also told to gather pairs of every kind of animal—male and female—so they could survive the coming flood. Noah obeyed everything God commanded, even though others likely mocked him for doing something so unusual.
When the time came, the rain began to fall, and the waters rose, covering even the highest mountains. Every living thing outside the ark perished. But Noah, his family, and the animals inside were safe. After many months, the water finally began to go down, and the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat.
When the earth dried, Noah and his family left the ark. Noah built an altar and offered sacrifices to thank God. God was pleased and promised never again to destroy the earth with a flood. As a sign of His promise, God placed a rainbow in the sky.
Noah’s story shows how faith and obedience can bring protection and hope, even in times of judgment. It reminds us that God values righteousness and always provides a new beginning.