In the Bible, the number eight is often used as a sign of new beginnings. Here, in Genesis eight, the human race got a new beginning when Noah and his family left the ark to begin their new life on the earth. But, before they left the ark, the waters must subside. Then, after they left the ark, Noah builds an altar to God and the Lord is pleased. God has not left them without hope. As the chapter begins, God remembered Noah.

This passage describes the depths to which sin will take man if he refuses to repent and return to the Lord. We see here the progressive nature of man’s rebellion and the steps God takes in turning from man. This passage stands as a warning to all of us about the danger of straying away from God.

In this chapter, God gives Zechariah two visions of warning. First, he sees a flying roll, which is identified as the curse. This pictures the law of God and the curse on those who disobey it. Second, he sees a woman sitting in a basket called an ephah (after the size of the basket). This vision is called wickedness and portrays false religion.

God has filled this short chapter with vivid pictures of redemption and wonderful verses of encouragement. Perhaps the theme of this chapter is that the Lord

In this psalm, we see a discouraged saint lifted up by meditating on the wondrous works of God. The first nine verses vividly describe the depths of despair. But in the tenth verse, we see a decision to remember the blessings of God. The next few verses (v.11-15) meditate on the works of God and the psalm closes with the saint finding God in the depths of the sea. O glorious message of encouragement!

David established a standing army as well as officers over different areas of the economy. God gave David a genius for organization that is clearly seen in this chapter.

In a long list that began at verse fifteen, the Lord continues to describe the curse that will fall on Israel if they fail to do the commands that He has given them in the law. This chapter has 14 verses of blessing and 54 verses of curses. Though we are not under the law today, we can learn much from this lesson about how much God hates disobedience to His word.

In this chapter, God sent the flood that destroyed all breathing beings on the face of the earth. But first, He ensured the deliverance of Noah, his family, and all kinds of animals by shutting them in the ark Noah had built in obedience to God

Paul speaks of his desire to preach the gospel as a debtor to all men. He also speaks of the responsibility of all men to respond to the revelation given to them.

Zechariah sees the vision of the golden candlestick and the two olive trees. The olive oil is a picture of the work of the Holy Spirit. God accomplishes His work, not by might or by power, but by the working of His Spirit. The entire vision centers on this truth.