Hashem existed before He created time and space. Hashem also exists beyond time and space. Essentially, all of His creation has only one function: to exclaim the wonder of the Creator. As long as each part of creation serves that function, it has a right to exist. When it doesn't, its raison d'etre ceases and eventually, so does its very existence cease as well. Ultimately, all of creation will unite in an eternal song of exultation. In the interim period, however, a process of selection is continuously taking place, a process that is weeding out the non-productive parts of creation. Thus, the more people will take upon themselves the yoke of bringing the world to its fruition, the lighter the load will be for each of them to carry, and the faster we will all reach our collective destination. However, when the number of souls participating in this existential task diminishes, Hashem constricts His Presence to dwell on those few who serve Him wholeheartedly. It may be only one person, possibly a few; in the end it makes no difference. The world will continue to exist and, if need be, its purpose will be transmitted through the few.
How does Hashem relate to people who are not participating in the collective purpose of creation? Basically they are ignored. Not wanting to live for anything beyond the fulfillment of their selfish needs, they are left to fend for themselves in a world controlled completely by rigid, ruthless laws of nature. Like deer are prey to lions and small fish are fodder to bigger fish, sadly, they are haplessly consumed. Since they are not part of the general plan, they have limited themselves to merely being specks of dust in space.
Noach's generation were given the optimum conditions to bring the world to its ideal state. They lived for hundreds of years in which they could strive to ever higher heights, they lacked nothing in material needs, and the weather was always pleasant. However, instead of utilizing this ideal period, they became lax. Eventually they even gave up the quest for perfection, preferring to bask in the pleasant sun and enjoy the merry-go-round. When the time came for just desserts, Hashem sent down a tremendous influx, which, had they been worthy of it, would have been the giving of the Holy Torah. Instead, it turned into material blessing, which washed away the face of the earth. Although they failed their calling this time around, the same souls were brought down to the world again to receive the Torah. This time, however, they had to emerge from the slavery side of the fleshpots of Egypt, and did not enjoy Egypt's plenty.
May we all learn to utilize the opportunities we are given, and not have to learn our lesson the hard way.
Adapted from Rabbi Vali's book on Dvarim, and on the book Adir Bamarom, written by his teacher Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato (RMCH"L). Questions and subscriptions can be mailed to: the Yeshiva
Chag Kasher Vesameach