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The Story of Redemption
whereon they offered human sacrifices. These which God detested
were torn down in His wrath before them, and they were made
to tremble before the power of the living God, the Maker of the
heavens and the earth, and they were made to know that it was their
abominations and horrible, idolatrous sacrifices which had called
for their destruction.
The violence of the storm increased, and there were mingled
with the warring of the elements, the wailings of the people who
had despised the authority of God. Trees, buildings, rocks, and earth
were hurled in every direction. The terror of man and beast was
beyond description. And even Satan himself, who was compelled
to be amid the warring elements, feared for his own existence. He
had delighted to control so powerful a race, and wished them to live
to practice their abominations, and increase their rebellion against
the God of heaven. He uttered imprecations against God, charging
Him with injustice and cruelty. Many of the people, like Satan,
blasphemed God, and if they could have carried out their rebellion,
would have torn Him from His throne of justice.
While many were blaspheming and cursing their Creator, others
were frantic with fear, stretching their hands toward the ark, pleading
for admittance. But this was impossible. God had closed the door,
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the only entrance, and shut Noah in and the ungodly out. He alone
could open the door. Their fear and repentance came too late. They
were compelled to know that there was a living God who was might-
ier than man, whom they had defied and blasphemed. They called
upon Him earnestly, but His ear was not open to their cry. Some in
their desperation sought to break into the ark, but that firm-made
structure resisted all their efforts. Some clung to the ark until borne
away with the furious surging of the waters, or their hold was broken
off by rocks and trees that were hurled in every direction.
Those who had slighted the warning of Noah and ridiculed that
faithful preacher of righteousness repented too late of their unbelief.
The ark was severely rocked and tossed about. The beasts within
expressed, by their varied noises, the wildest terror; yet amid all
the warring of the elements, the surging of the waters, and the
hurling about of trees and rocks, the ark rode safely. Angels that
excel in strength guided the ark and preserved it from harm. Every