The example of Noah

Genesis 9:9 says that 'Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God'.

The Bible is full of verses with threefold areas to focus on. Here three elements are something to aim for.

Firstly, Noah was a righteous man. When we are in God's family we bear His name and we long for what is on his heart. Righteousness is central to that. Seeking justice, fairness and all that is right is part of wanting to see His Kingdom come.

Secondly, he was blameless among the people of his time. So many Bible characters stood out in society for their contribution, their attitude, their integrity. Paul encourages us similarly in 1 Thessalonians 4: 11 & 12 to make it our ambitions to lead quiet lives, minding our own business (not busybodies or gossips) and working hard. By so doing our lives will win the respect of outsiders. We're to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the Lord. To be blameless among the people of our time.

And of course, thirdly, he walked with God. Noah and Enoch are listed as ones who walked with God. Moses talked with God as a man talks with a friend, face to face. We should seek to walk with God. Not ahead of Him, not away from Him, not too far behind Him, but with Him. Jesus saw what the Father was doing and then did that. So should we. We don't invite God to walk with us, and to grant what we want. We should seek His will and His kingdom, and get alongside Him in what He is doing.

So, as we start this new year make Noah your example. Desire righteousness, seek to be blameless among the people of our time, and walk with God.