Living a Legacy: The Power of Obedience
Summary
What an incredible season we are living in as a church family! Coming off a record-breaking Easter where 132 people gave their lives to Christ, we are reminded of the power of invitation and the faithfulness of God to answer our prayers. As we continue our “God First” journey, we are challenged to move beyond a partially surrendered life and to put God first in every area, refusing to compartmentalize our faith. Today, we look to the life of Noah—a man who stood alone in his generation, fully committed to God, and whose boldness changed the course of history.
Noah’s story is a powerful reminder that one person’s obedience can have a profound impact, not just on themselves, but on their family, future generations, and even the world. When God saw Noah’s integrity, He didn’t just spare Noah, but his entire family—even though the Bible never says his family was righteous. The favor on Noah’s life spilled over, illustrating the ripple effect of a life lived with God-first boldness. This principle is true for us as well: the way we live our lives directly impacts those closest to us, and the legacy we leave can shape generations to come.
Reflecting on my own family, I see how the faithfulness of my parents and grandparents has blessed not only me and my brother, but also this church and countless others. But even if you didn’t inherit a legacy of faith, you can be the one to start it. Your decision to serve the Lord today can change the trajectory of your descendants for generations.
Noah’s obedience also made a difference for all future generations. God’s covenant with Noah was for “all generations to come,” and we are living in the blessing of that promise. Our lives are not just about what we leave for others, but what we leave in them—a legacy of faith, courage, and obedience. Whether you lead a church, a business, or simply have influence in your family or community, you are a leader, and your example matters.
God is always searching for those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. He doesn’t require extraordinary talent, but extraordinary willingness. Noah was 600 years old when he finished the ark, proving that God can use anyone, at any age, who is willing to walk in obedience. Don’t let perceived limitations hold you back—God is not limited by what you think limits you.
If Noah could speak to us today, he would urge us: never be afraid to take a stand for what’s right, never be afraid to be the first to follow God into something new, and never be afraid to fully trust God to do what He has promised. Our obedience unleashes God’s power in our lives and leaves a legacy that endures.
Key Takeaways
- The Ripple Effect of Obedience: The way we live our lives never just impacts us alone. Our faithfulness to God can spill over into our families, blessing those closest to us even if they are not yet walking with God. The seeds of integrity and commitment we plant today can bear fruit for generations, shaping destinies beyond what we can see. [09:15]
- Legacy Over Inheritance: There is a profound difference between leaving an inheritance and leaving a legacy. An inheritance is what we leave for someone, but a legacy is what we leave in someone. By consistently walking with God and sharing His faithfulness with the next generation, we equip them to set their hope anew on God and to remember His mighty works. [21:54]
- God Uses Ordinary People: God is not looking for the most talented or gifted, but for those with a heart fully committed to Him. He delights in using ordinary people who are willing to stand in the gap, obey Him, and trust Him even when it’s costly or unpopular. Our availability and willingness matter more to God than our ability. [23:30]
- Age and Limitations Don’t Disqualify: God is not limited by our age, experience, or perceived shortcomings. Whether young or old, God can use anyone who consecrates what they have to Him. Noah was 600 years old when he completed the ark, reminding us that it’s never too late—or too early—to make a difference for God’s kingdom. [25:42]
- Bold Faith Requires Risk: Taking a stand for what’s right or stepping into something new with God often means facing criticism, loneliness, or uncertainty. True leadership means being willing to be the first, to look foolish in the eyes of others, and to trust God’s promises even when they seem impossible. God honors those who push all their chips in with Him, because He is not just a promise maker—He is a promise keeper. [27:58]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:10] - Celebrating Easter and the Power of Invitation
[03:05] - Introducing the “God First” Series
[05:00] - The Story of Noah: Standing Alone for God
[09:15] - Feeling Outnumbered: The Difference One Can Make
[11:30] - Noah’s Obedience and the Ripple Effect on Family
[14:45] - The Power of Spiritual Legacy
[17:06] - Planting for Future Generations
[19:30] - Legacy vs. Inheritance
[21:54] - Teaching the Next Generation
[23:30] - Making a Difference for God
[25:42] - God Can Use Anyone at Any Age
[27:58] - Lessons from Noah: Boldness, Obedience, and Trust
[30:00] - God is a Promise Keeper
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: “God First Boldness – The Ripple Effect of Obedience”
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### Bible Reading
- Genesis 6:5-9
The LORD saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The LORD regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the LORD said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.” But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God.
- Genesis 7:1
The LORD then said to Noah, “Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation.”
- Psalm 78:4-7
We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Genesis 6, what set Noah apart from the rest of his generation? What words are used to describe his character and relationship with God?
2. In Genesis 7:1, why did God invite Noah’s whole family into the ark? Does the passage say anything about the righteousness of Noah’s family?
3. In Psalm 78, what are God’s people commanded to do for the next generation? What is the intended result of this?
4. The sermon mentioned that Noah’s obedience had a “ripple effect” on his family and future generations. What evidence do we see of this in the passages and in the sermon? [[09:15]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says, “The favor that fell on Noah’s life because of his commitment to God spilled over into his family.” What does this suggest about the impact of one person’s faithfulness on those around them? [[09:15]]
2. The difference between inheritance and legacy was highlighted: “An inheritance is something you leave for someone, but a legacy is something you leave in someone.” How does this distinction challenge the way we think about what we pass on to others? [[21:54]]
3. The sermon points out that God uses ordinary people, not just the most talented or gifted. Why do you think God chooses to work this way? [[23:30]]
4. Noah was 600 years old when he finished the ark. What does this say about God’s ability to use people regardless of age or perceived limitations? [[25:42]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon shared stories of family faithfulness and how it shaped future generations. If you grew up with a legacy of faith, how has it impacted you? If not, what would it look like for you to be the one who starts a new legacy in your family? [[09:15]]
2. Think about your current sphere of influence—family, friends, workplace, or community. What is one specific way your obedience to God could create a positive ripple effect for those around you this week? [[09:15]]
3. The difference between inheritance and legacy was discussed. What is one thing you want to intentionally “leave in” the next generation (your children, friends, or church family)? How can you start doing that now? [[21:54]]
4. The sermon said, “God is not looking for great talent. He’s looking for people with great willingness and availability.” Are there areas where you’ve been holding back because you feel unqualified or too ordinary? What would it look like to offer your availability to God this week? [[23:30]]
5. Noah’s story shows that age and limitations don’t disqualify anyone from being used by God. Is there something you feel “too old,” “too young,” or “not enough” to do? What step of faith could you take to trust God with your limitations? [[25:42]]
6. The sermon challenged us to “never be afraid to take a stand for what’s right, even if you’re the only one.” Can you think of a situation where you need to take a stand for God, even if it’s unpopular or lonely? What’s holding you back? [[27:58]]
7. The pastor said, “Our obedience unleashes God’s power in our lives and leaves a legacy that endures.” What is one area where you sense God is calling you to obey Him more fully? What’s one practical step you can take this week to move forward in obedience? [[29:02]]
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Closing Prayer:
Ask God to help you put Him first in every area of your life, to use your obedience to bless others, and to give you courage to leave a legacy of faith for future generations.
Devotional
Day 1: The Unseen Influence of Obedient Living
Obedience to God is never isolated; it creates a ripple effect that extends beyond the individual to impact families and communities. When one person chooses to live with integrity and faithfulness, it can bless those around them—even those who have not yet embraced faith. This ripple effect is a powerful reminder that your daily choices in faithfulness plant seeds that may bear fruit for generations, shaping destinies in ways you cannot immediately see. Your commitment to God today is not just for your own life but for the lives of those closest to you and those who will come after you.
Living with God-first boldness means refusing to compartmentalize your faith and recognizing that your obedience influences your family and community. Just as Noah’s integrity spared not only himself but his entire family, your faithfulness can open doors of blessing and transformation for others. This is the power of a life fully surrendered to God’s leading. [09:15]
“By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.” (Hebrews 11:7)
Reflection: Who in your immediate family or community is most affected by your daily choices? What is one practical way you can live out your faith more visibly to bless them this week?
Day 2: Planting Faith That Transforms Generations
There is a profound difference between leaving an inheritance and leaving a legacy. An inheritance is material and temporary, but a legacy is spiritual and enduring—it is what we leave in the hearts and lives of others. By consistently walking with God and sharing His faithfulness, you equip the next generation to set their hope anew on God and to remember His mighty works. This spiritual legacy shapes not only your descendants but also the wider community and church.
Legacy is about investing in people’s faith and courage, teaching them to trust God through every season. Even if you did not inherit a strong faith tradition, you have the opportunity to start a new legacy today. Your obedience and faithfulness can become the foundation for generations to come, just as Noah’s covenant with God was for “all generations to come.” [21:54]
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)
Reflection: What is one spiritual truth or practice you can intentionally teach or model this week to someone younger or less mature in faith? How can you begin to build a legacy of faith in your family or community?
Day 3: God’s Call to Ordinary Hearts
God is not searching for the most talented or gifted, but for those with hearts fully committed to Him. He delights in using ordinary people who are willing to stand in the gap, obey, and trust Him even when it is costly or unpopular. Your availability and willingness to obey matter more than your ability or status. This truth encourages you to step forward in faith, knowing that God can use your obedience to accomplish His purposes.
Noah’s story reminds us that God’s power is released through ordinary people who say “yes” to Him. You don’t need extraordinary skills or recognition to make a difference. What God desires is your wholehearted commitment and readiness to be used, regardless of how you perceive your own limitations. [23:30]
“The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)
Reflection: What is one area where you feel inadequate or unqualified? How can you surrender that feeling to God and offer your willingness to be used despite your limitations?
Day 4: Age and Limitations Are Not Barriers to God’s Work
God is not limited by your age, experience, or perceived shortcomings. Whether young or old, God can use anyone who consecrates what they have to Him. Noah was 600 years old when he completed the ark, showing that it is never too late—or too early—to make a significant difference for God’s kingdom. Your current stage of life or past failures do not disqualify you from God’s calling.
This truth invites you to trust God’s timing and power rather than your own. When you consecrate your time, talents, and resources to God, He can accomplish great things through you. Age and limitations are not obstacles but opportunities for God to demonstrate His strength in your weakness. [25:42]
“Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.” (Isaiah 46:4)
Reflection: In what ways have you allowed age or limitations to hold you back from serving God fully? What is one step you can take today to consecrate your current season to God’s purposes?
Day 5: Courageous Faith Demands Risk and Trust
Bold faith requires risk—it means taking a stand for what is right, stepping into the unknown, and trusting God’s promises even when they seem impossible. True leadership often involves being the first to follow God into new territory, even if it means facing criticism, loneliness, or uncertainty. God honors those who fully commit to Him because He is not only a promise maker but a promise keeper.
Noah’s example challenges you to never be afraid to be different or to trust God’s word when it feels risky. Your obedience unleashes God’s power in your life and leaves a legacy that endures. Bold faith is not reckless but rooted in confident trust that God will fulfill His promises. [27:58]
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
Reflection: What is one area where God is calling you to take a bold step of faith today? How can you practically trust Him to keep His promises as you move forward?
Quotes
The way we live our lives never just impacts and affects us only. Deep down we know this. Our lives have a very real and very profound ripple effect to many people sometimes that we don't even recognize or realize. We may not always see it immediately or while we are in the middle of the fight but I will promise you it still happens just the same. And when God sees the integrity of Noah, God instructs him to begin construction on the ark and it doesn't just spare his life. It doesn't just affect him but I want you to see what the Bible says in Genesis 7. When everything was finally ready the Lord said to Noah, go into the ark and all of your family as well. Now I want you to notice that the Bible never says his family was righteous. The Bible never says his sons were righteous. The Bible never says his wife was righteous. The Bible never says his family conducted themselves in any type of a manner that was reflective of Noah. For among all the people of the earth I know that you alone you alone are righteous. The favor that fell on Noah's life because of his commitment to God spilled over into his family. The way our that way that we live our lives directly impacts those that are closest to us and then God only knows how that ripple will extend out. [00:12:11] (76 seconds)
He'll never probably live long enough. They were little orange trees. They were little grapefruit trees and I remember thinking why is he doing all of this? Why is he going to all of this trouble? Why is he out here in the heat of the day knowing he probably won't eat anything even off of these trees? And then I realized one day he didn't plant them for himself. [00:18:44] (21 seconds)
My grandfather didn't plant those trees for him. He didn't plant all that stuff for him. He knew even if he didn't get to eat from it somebody would. Noah's God first boldness didn't just affect his family. It affected you. It affected me. And God said this is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you. It's a covenant for all generations to come. You know who you are? You're all generations to come. [00:18:50] (27 seconds)
God is not limited by the things that you think limit you. God can use anybody, anywhere, at any time to accomplish his purpose. And if you're in this room or you're at the UC and you think you're too young, just remember that Jesus miraculously fed 5 ,000 with just a little boy's lunch who was willing to give what he had to God. [00:25:18] (18 seconds)
When my man completed the ark, you know them joints was creaking, boy. 600, when he finally finished the ark, you're never too young, you're never too old, you're never too limited, you're never untalented enough. God can use anything and anyone and anybody if they're willing to walk at God first boldness and do the right thing. Just consecrate who you are and what you have to God at any stage and he will shock you at what he will accomplish through your life. [00:25:42] (35 seconds)
Every time you look up in the sky, I want you to hear this. Every time you look up in the sky and see a rainbow, you need to remember that whatever he is leading you to do is covered. He did it before. He's the same yesterday, today, and forever. If he made a promise to you and you step out in obedience, just like he honored his word to Noah, he's going to honor his word to you. He's going to honor his word to that thing he's called you to do. Our obedience to God, our willingness to walk in God first boldness, unleashes his power over our lives to meet the challenges before us. So whatever you feel like God may be stirring in you to do, Noah's word would be this, never be afraid to push your chips all in with God. He ain't just a promise maker, baby. He's a promise keeper. [00:30:16] (56 seconds)
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