God saw the earth, and indeed it was ruined, for all living creatures on the earth were sinful.
Into the Text
When God created Adam, he was given a job. God told him to care for the earth. But after the fall, we see that following this command was not heeded. In fact, God tells Noah that all of creation had become sinful.
The earth was filled with violence. From the idyllic, peaceful, lush, and free garden of Eden to utter violence. This was not God’s intention for creation.
Proverbs 21:7 says “The violence done by the wicked will drag them away because they have refused to do what is right.” Have you ever noticed that when you do the right thing, little by little, small decision after small decision, it becomes easier to do the right thing? And vice versa, when you do the wrong thing, little by little, it becomes easier to do the wrong thing? I think this is what it means to be dragged away by our actions.
But there is hope. Believers are called to repentance, which leads to change and restoration. We are to confess our sins, turn from them, and run wholeheartedly towards Christ. It is the action of going the other way. We seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance as we say no to that thought, action, or word and seek to live in obedience to God’s ways.
Do you feel dragged away by the decisions you’re making, or are you living a life of obedience? Jesus is our only hope! Romans 6:23 says that the payoff of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Though the people around Noah were marked by sinfulness and violence, your life can be marked by faithfulness and freedom, and it’s all because of Jesus.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t want to live a life characterized by sin and violence. Thank you for giving me the gift of eternal life through your Son Jesus! Help me to seek your will and your way each day. Amen.