Chapter 10 lists the names of each of Noah's three sons' descendants (5) beyond the account of chapter 11. This chapter also explains Genesis 9:19. Many of the sons' names represent the kingdoms that their descendants later established and the regions they occupied.

Among them, Nimrod, a descendant of Ham, was known as a “mighty hunter before the LORD” (8), meaning he was known to be mighty on earth—and opposed the LORD above. He claimed the territory from Shinar, where Babel stood, to Assyria, where he built the great cities of Nineveh and Calah. While Ham's descendants seemed to prosper despite the curse of his father Noah, God was raising the children of Japheth and Shem as well. God fulfilled his blessing for them to “increase in number and fill the earth” (9:1) with full provision.

People want to plan their own way and make their name known according to their pride. Yet God's purpose for us is clear: through the history of human affairs, we will seek him and come to know him better (Acts 17:26-27).
Application: Father, you faithfully provide for us and keep your promise. I want to fix my eyes on you today so that I may not be lost in the rumors and news of the world but see how you consistently carry out your plans and blessings.
One Word: The nations spread out over the earth