Scripture: Joshua 2:8-13
8 “Before the spies lay down for the night, she went up on the roof 9 and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you. 10 We have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. 11 When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lordyour God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.”
12 “Now then, please swear to me by the Lord that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign 13 that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them—and that you will save us from death.”
Observation
Rahab, one whose occupation would define her as sinful, shows great faith and professes that the spies’ God is the one true God. She recounted all God had done to bring the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. She saved the spies’ lives and asked for her family to be saved in return. We do not know why the spies chose to hide out in her home. It was a place where people entered and left regularly. This is proof that we should not disqualify someone from coming to faith or how God could use them to help us on our mission.
Rahab spoke boldly. Her faith did save her and her family and she is listed in the lineage of Jesus. These spies showed much more faith than those who spied out the land 40 years earlier.
Application
I need to remember God loves and can redeem all people, even ones who seem to be the most lost. This is encouraging to remind me to not give up praying for my family. The works of God somehow had become known to Rahab. Testimonies of what God has done are powerful in turning hearts toward Him. I need to share God’s power and love so the lost can be drawn to him. I also need to keep my eyes open. God may use someone that I would never expect to bless me and provide what I need.
Prayer
Father God,
Your works are wonderful. There is no one whose heart cannot be opened by you to come to faith. Please help me do my part and not give up on those I am praying for. May I share testimonies freely of all you have done. When I am seeking you for answers to challenges I face, may I keep my eyes open to any method you choose to bring it about. You love and care for all. Your plans are marvelous. Thank you for all you do. Amen
- Cindy Howard
