Genesis 36

Scripture:  Genesis chapter 36

Observation:  An entire chapter dedicated to the lineage of Jacob's twin brother Esau, also known as Edom. It's noted that Esau and Jacob lived separate due to the fact that their families and livestock were too large for them to be close to each other.  Esau took his family south of Moab to a territory which would be called Edom after the name given to Esau which means Red.  Mount Seir is a notable landmark.

Application:  The lineage of Esau is listed for an important reason.  Not only because this was a son of Isaac, but because later on the Edomites and the Israelites would be enemies.  Although Esau made up with Jacob, their animosity was never truly gone, and hatred between both nations would be evident throughout Bible history.  Here is where we see it start.  One bad decision made by Esau brought thousands of years of trouble for his descendants and those of his brother.  But we all make bad decisions at some point; does that mean our lives and the lives of our descendants are all doomed because of it?  No.  Esau's bad decision brought trouble between him and his brother, but unforgiveness and hatred continued it throughout their families.  It's important to break that chain of unforgiveness if our children are to have peace.

Prayer:  That is my desire today, Lord, to have full and complete forgiveness for those who have wronged me, so that I don't live with that dread in my heart for the rest of my life.  You know what has been done to me; You see the injustices, and You will take care of me.  Help me to forgive those who hurt me.  Help me to move on from my pain.  In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.