JANUARY 10, 2026
Topic: “STAYING CLOSE TO GOD KEEPS YOU SAFE“
Text: Genesis 7:13-23
Memory Verse: “Only Noah was left and those with him in the ark” – Genesis 7:23c.
Imagine an island nation where authorities issue a warning about a powerful tsunami approaching. They advise everyone to seek refuge in a specially constructed shelter on the highest ground, built according to specific safety guidelines. Officials spread the word about the approaching danger and the location of the safe shelter. Some people take the warnings seriously and head to the shelter, while others disregard the warnings and remain in their homes or try to find their own ways to protect themselves.
As the tsunami approaches, those who heeded the warnings are safely inside the designated shelter. The tsunami impacts the island. The shelter, built to withstand the force of the waves, protects those inside, while those who did not take refuge are exposed to the danger.
While Noah and all those with him in the Ark enjoyed peace and safety with God among them throughout the period of the flood, life outside the Ark on the other hand was chaotic and tumultuous. Everybody and everything perished.
The disciples of Jesus also had a taste of the privilege of being close to Him in the face of a deadly squall on the Sea of Galilee. It was on one of their evangelistic outreaches as they travelled across the sea to the land of the Gadarenes. The violent winds beat hard against their boat, almost to the point of drowning, thereby causing a great panic among the disciples. The presence of Jesus with them in the boat made all the difference at the end of it all. By His divine authority, Jesus rebuked the wind and it died down and all was calm again (Matthew 8:23-27). The disciples enjoyed safety on that trip by simply being close to Jesus to whom they cried in the face of danger.
Our ability to align with God must come from a place of intimacy with Him, thereby guaranteeing our safety in every situation. Wherever Jesus is, the power of God is there to take charge of whatever may arise. So, with him we would have nothing to fear. I encourage you to take all necessary steps to stay close to Him and enjoy the many benefits that come with it.
Prayer: Lord draw me closer to you and let my heart find its rest in you, Amen.