Introductory Thoughts
The days preceding the flood were evil in many ways, but they were specifically identified as days filled with violence. In fact, the LORD specifically told Noah, “The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.” In Ezekiel’s day, the scriptures declare, “the land is full of bloody crimes, and the city is full of violence” (Ezekiel 7:23). The presence of excessive violence expresses much concerning the nature of any time (past or present). Although the Lord promised not to destroy the earth again with a flood, worldwide violence moves the Lord to bring judgment.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Violence refers to an act of physical force with the intent to injure another. Cain was violent when he killed Abel (Genesis 4:8). Herod showed that he was violent when he ordered his men to slay children (Matthew 2:16). The Ninevites were a violent people, but repented in hopes that God would not destroy them (Jonah 3:4-10).
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(For everyone): What is the present level of violence upon the earth? Would it be safe to say that the earth is becoming more filled with violence every year? How will this fact one day move the Lord to judge?
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Many acts of violence are illegal while some have become legal forms of entertainment. What are some violent forms of entertainment? How does this show the wickedness of our generation?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to show you His view of violence.
- Ask God to help you avoid the worlds love for violence.
Song
WHOLLY THINE (HAWKS)
