Scripture to Read: Genesis 10:21-32
Today we look at Shem’s lineage. We see a difference in the way Shem’s lineage is introduced as compared to Japheth's and Ham’s. In Genesis 10:21, God’s Word says, To Shem also, the father of all the children of Eber, the elder brother of Japheth, children were born. The order of the listing of the sons changed here. In Genesis 10:21 God intentionally signified something important about the lineage of Shem. God mentions Shem’s great-grandson, Eber, in Genesis 10:21. Then, we have to read down to Genesis 10:25 before we find out a little more about Eber. Here is what God has Moses pen about Eber in Genesis 10:25, To Eber were born two sons: the name of the one was Peleg, for in his days the earth was divided, and his brother's name was Joktan. So, Eber’s two sons are Peleg and Joktan. God mentions that Peleg lived in the days when the earth was divided. Peleg’s name in Hebrew means “division.” This “division” relates to God’s division of people at the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11. From Answers in Genesis we find: “A careful search of the context of Genesis 10:25 reveals that the division of the earth refers to the dividing up of the post-Flood people on the basis of languages and families, and moving them into different geographical locations.” So, God uses Genesis 10 to show how Noah’s family was divided into three divisions based on his three sons. God is detailed, and that means He cares about every detail of our lives as well.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about even the smallest details mentioned in the genealogy of Genesis 10?
2. How does knowing that God cares for even the smallest details of our lives change the way you look at your life?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!