Love God Greatly: In the BeginningНамуна

Blessings and curses are a main theme in the book of Genesis. In Genesis chapter 9 Noah cursed his son Ham and blessed his sons Shem and Japheth. Ham’s actions were improper and disrespectful while Shem and Japheth went out of their way to honor their father and protect his modesty. 

In this moment God gave Noah insight into the future relations between his descendants. Moses, the largely undisputed author of Genesis, used this story to communicate the coming reputations and traits of the descendants of Noah’s sons based on their actions. Shem was the ancestor to God’s chosen people, the Israelites, while Ham’s descendants became known as the Canaanites, whose land was handed over to the Israelites. 

This story also offers us insight into how God wants those who follow Him to act. Shem and Japheth were blessed for honoring their father while Ham was cursed for his actions. God’s people are to handle corruption according to His Word, not according to their own gains. The righteous conduct of Shem and Japheth was rewarded, not only in their lifetimes, but for their descendants as well. 

Shem and Japheth’s actions marked them as children of God. It was abundantly clear they had chosen to walk with God and honor His commands. Noah praised the Lord, calling Him “the God of Shem!” When we are in step with God’s truth and walk daily in His commands, those around us will know who we serve. When we are in step with the Spirit we make God’s name great.

Prayer:

Lord, You are God. I long for my life to be a testament to Your glory and goodness. Keep me from sin. Open my eyes to temptation and give me a way out. Allow me to live a life that honors You and glorifies Your name in all circumstances. You are worthy of praise, and I want to follow You and not the world. In Jesus’ name, amen.