Genesis 1:7 | Pastor Burns' Study Notes

Here the action described in verse 6 is carried out. God made the firmament and divided the waters below from the waters above. Once again the text emphasizes the accomplishment of God’s Word: “and it was so.” What God decrees is done.

There is no resistance in creation to the command of God. His will is executed immediately and perfectly. The world obeys Him better than man often does. The sea stays within its bounds because God appointed its place. The skies remain above because God ordained them. The universe moves according to His word.

The waters above may refer to the cloud systems, water vapor, or atmospheric waters. The exact physical arrangement has been discussed by many, but the main truth is plain: God created the expanse above us and established the world in a structured, livable way.

This verse should increase our confidence in God’s power. If God can divide waters and form the heavens by His word, He is not hindered by the impossible situations in our lives. He is the God who speaks and it is so.