The ark had been a refuge and provided safety during the storm. But the future necessitated leaving the ark of comfort. Noah, his family, and the animals all needed to step into the new, unknown post-flood earth. Leaving the ark meant stepping into a new, unfamiliar world. Even though the flood was over, there was likely some apprehension.
God commanded that they leave the ark and they obeyed. Genesis 8: 15 Then God said to Noah, 16 “Leave the boat, all of you—you and your wife, and your sons and their wives. 17 Release all the animals—the birds, the livestock, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—so they can be fruitful and multiply throughout the earth.” 18 So Noah, his wife, and his sons and their wives left the boat. [1]
Leaving Our Comfort Zone
Just as Noah had to leave the ark, Joshua had to leave the wilderness to take the nation of Israel into the promised land. It wouldn’t be easy, but God encouraged him. Joshua 1: 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. [2]
The people entering the promised land only knew the wilderness. They had no GPS or maps, so how would they know the way? Joshua 3: 3When you see the Levitical priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord your God, move out from your positions and follow them. 4 Since you have never traveled this way before, they will guide you.[3] God would guide them through the priests.
We all have “arks”—the situations, habits, or relationships that provide comfort and security, even if they aren’t necessarily healthy or fulfilling. At times, God calls us to leave them behind and step into the unknown. This requires that we trust He will be there to guide us. This can feel intimidating, but it’s often essential for growth and progress.
Entering the New
For Noah and his family, leaving the ark symbolized a fresh start, a new beginning in a world cleansed by the flood. God offers us new beginnings through Jesus. Ephesians 4: 21 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, 22 throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. 24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.[4]
God can redeem our past mistakes, heal our wounds, and provide us with new opportunities for growth and service. Even when we struggle or face difficult times, God’s grace makes fresh starts possible. Ephesians 2: 8 God saved you by his grace when you believed…10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.[5]
To learn more about leaving the ark of comfort, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/navigating-the-floods-of-life
[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.