Just yesterday, I forgot again. It had been a long day, and I was tired—physically tired, but emotionally exhausted too. It seems we live in that place of general fatigue more often than not these days, huh? And when an already-full cup gets bumped, we all know what happens: it spills over, and there is usually a mess to clean up.
I spilled over, and circumstances are not to blame. Circumstances, I’ve lived long enough to know, are always going to shift and change. If I set my hope on them, I’m guaranteed disappointment and discouragement. So, I must set my hope on something else instead—Someone else. I must remember what is true when the stresses of life fill me to the brim. I must remember who is true.
Rahab’s story in Joshua 2 is one of my favorite narratives in Scripture. I love that this loudly-labeled woman defies her definition and turns toward Yahweh in a remarkable plot twist. I love the symbolism of that scarlet cord in the window and the passion I can imagine in Rahab’s voice as I read her words. But the thing that gets me every single time I read Rahab’s story is how she seems to understand from the start something I struggle with daily. She recalls and remembers the acts of Yahweh, and this leads her to worship—right there in the most unlikely and uncertain of circumstances:
“I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the terror of you has fallen on us…
we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea before you…
When we heard this, we lost heart, and everyone’s courage failed because of you,
for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below”
(Joshua 2:9–11, emphasis mine).
Rahab calls to mind what she knows, and this leads her to profess what she believes. What if we did the same? Whether we’ve walked with the Lord for days or decades, we are here opening His Word together because we have seen Him at work in our hearts, our lives, our world, or all of the above. We have seen evidence of His hand, His goodness, His glory, and it’s enough to melt our very hearts before Him in awe and worship. What if we made a practice of remembering this? Not just when it’s easy, but when it’s hard. Not only when blessings are evident, but when they’re hidden. Not in times of ease, but in times of stress.
Join me today in recalling what you’ve seen God do. Join me in remembering who He is. Let the record of His faithfulness draw you to worship, and let’s echo Rahab’s profession together: “The LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below” (Joshua 2:11). We give our moments, days, and hearts to Him.
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151 thoughts on "Rahab & the Spies"
I love that God reveals Himself to anyone. All of His goodness is there for everyone to see and take hold of. I love that God is always in the business of redemption. Even when I am at my worst, He is loving and kind and gracious, guiding me back to Himself, offering His forgiveness, helping me come back to a right relationship with Him. Because He so desperately wants a relationship with us, He does everything He can to bring us to Him. God, in all His holiness, with all His power, with all His wisdom, He still wants an intimate relationship with me. Wow.
I love how also if you flip over to Ruth, this put Rahab in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Gods plan in always far above what we can see and understand. We have to trust him even in uncertain times.
I love this line in the devotional: “Rahab calls to mind what she knows, and this leads her to profess what she believes.” Rahab’s story is one of my favourite stories in the Bible. And because of her strong faith, God puts her in Jesus’ lineage. ❤️
Such a good practice I need to remember…focus on the goodness and faithfulness of God. Make it a daily practice to remember what He has done! ❤️
I never thought that they didn’t fear Israel they feared their God!
The people of Jericho feared the Israelites because they saw how God protected them. It had nothingness to do with the character or qualities of the Israelites.
It’s amazing how often God chose to reveal himself to women who were sinning and outcast by society. Rahab, the woman at the well, Mary Magdalene, the woman caught in adultery the Pharisees wanted to execute. They were looked down on by everyone around them, but God treasured them and saved them ❤️
The Lord my God is God in heaven above and on earth below.
♡
I totally missed that point as well. Thank you for your insight!
Lord, let me not lose heart and forgot all that you have done in past in the Bible and in my life. I don’t want to miss out on all that you have for me in my future because of my failure to remember.
God has been so good & faithful to me thru the years & to my family! I praise you God because you are holy, worthy, & there is no one like You! I remember all of your works & that You keep Your promises!
❤
Beautiful scripture ♥️
Let me be drawn to worship
❤️
Last year was so hard between life changes and sorrow for my family and I. I found myself questioning God through some of those changes. Even when times are hard and seem never ending, knowing that my all mighty God is in my corner is my goal going into this year.
I just got my book so I’m going back through my days and re read the small verse about Caleb.
Numbers 13:30 “Then Caleb quieted the people in the presence of Moses and said “Let’s go up now and take possession of the Land because we can most certainly conquer it!”
Caleb was ignored and they instead gave a negative report. I totally missed that the first time. How often we ignore the positive voice and go to the negative voices. I hope to be more like the voice of Caleb and make sure to hear the voices of the positive even a quiet voice.
The Lord Stephanie’s God is God in heaven above and on earth below.
God’s use of Rahab is a beautiful reminder of His love for all of us.
Hi Erin!!
I may be wrong, but I think the scarlet cord symbolizes the blood of a pure lamb the Israelites put on their doors when the angel of death came to put to death all the firstborns while the Israelites were slaves in Egypt. God told the Israelites to put the blood on their door posts and the angel of death would pass by , saving their firstborn from death. In the same way, Rahab put the scarlet cord (same color as blood) on her door to protect her and her family from death.
I hope that makes sense :)
Yes it does Heidi, thank you.
Can someone please explain to me the symbolism of the red cord that Rahab used? I am trying to build a deeper connection with the Lord and would like to understand as much as I possibly can.
Rahab believed based on the testimony of what God did for the Israelites and chose to trust. What an example for us. Just like Rahab, we were not first hand witnesses to the accounts of God power that we read about in the Bible. Yet, these accounts should cause us to believe and trust. (As well as, the many times we have witnessed God’s power in our own lives.)
What an example Rahab is!
Thank you God for this Word!
Even during times when my faith has been shaky, or the situation looks impossible, one thing that has helped me is what is mentioned here: fixing my heart and mind on what God had done before and trusting in Him to do it again.
Rahab helps the two men trust God even more than before, after saving their life!
Amen! I love how Rahab recognized God’s power over anything else and she decided to Trust him.
This. God uses this woman to not only continue his plan here, but she becomes part of the family tree of Jesus. And just like she was adopted into His chosen, we to are adopted in. This story shows that Women are worthy, we are valued, and honored. We have gifts and purpose and through God we flourish.
I love Rahab’s trust in God that he will save her and even if he doesn’t she is still faith
Lauren, I feel like so many of us can relate to this. You are already on your way to understanding scripture on a deeper level though. You are taking the first steps by reading His word and praying for God to help you connect to it and understand. God knows our hearts, but he wants us to come boldly to him with our cares and prayers. It stood out to me that strict instructions were given for none of the Israelites other than the priests to go near the Ark, but now with Jesus as our high priest, we can go boldly before God. Jesus was the fulfillment of the greatest promise ever made and there is already a scarlet thread (or scarlet cord in this story) leading to the coming of Christ in the story of Joshua. God is El Roi, the God who sees, and he saw Rahab and her heart just as he sees us today. She was spared and from her line our Savior was born. God wasn’t looking for perfection. She was a sinner, but God captured her heart through the miracles he had performed for others. God had shown himself to be the one true God to the Israelites, and Rahab’s heart and eyes were open to see it.
Continuing praying for God to open your heart and mind to the beauty of his word. Trust that the spirit will guide you. Find a spiritual mentor or a friend who would be willing to discuss scripture with you or do these studies alongside you. Try a highlighting method. Right now just look for repeated themes to highlight. (Repeated themes in Joshua 1-5 are trust, courage, obedience.) Later on you can dig deeper into different highlighting methods. There are some great Bible highlighting guides available out there. Find a good study Bible with notes and commentary. Listen to the SRT podcast episodes. The latest episode with Christine Caine will certainly light your desire to want to read more from the book of Joshua. These are just a few suggestions to try. The most important is what you are already doing—opening your Bible and praying for wisdom.
Knowing this took place in the Old Testiment, I have to wonder if it was fear that gave Rahabs faith.
Knowing this took pla
Rahabs words are filled with faith in God. She speaks the truths of Gods works even as she speaks of the destruction of her city. She chooses faith and hope instead of fear. The darkest time in my life was when God met me and carried me. Ironically now I feel that moment in time to remind myself of Gods provision, faithfulness and kindness.
We have our Bibles to help us remember that God is alive and active. But, I have to make a conscience effort each day to get into His Word and remember His blessings. I wish our entire country USA would do this study because we ALL need to return to God and remember.
It’s amazing how Rahab’s faith also inspired the spies’ faith. In the Numbers passage, the spies reported in fear, but after the two spies encountered Rahab, they left full of faith by hearing what the people of Jerico thought of God and were ready to take possession! I pray for faith that helps me and others recall the goodness and greatness of the Lord!
I’m encouraged by the fact that God goes before us. We aren’t told how these spies knew to go to Rehab, but they did because God had prepared a way for them. He is the same God today. I love believing and knowing that He goes before me and prepares my way when I am walking with Him. Who knows who He will bring into our paths that will speak His truth into our lives. God is good at being God.
Rahab did not have a community of believers, a bible, podcasts, apps, pastors preaching the word, and access to sermons from all over the world through the internet- yet she believed. Her faith was so strong, even though she did not have all the resources we do today to strengthen it. God used her faithfulness for the Israelites AND to become the mother of Boaz, great grandfather to David. Amazing!
I love that Rahab, even as she lived a sinful life was able to see the Mighty God of the Israelites and then you seen she believed in her heart that God is mighty. The spies must’ve have also needed this reminder of God’s faithfulness to them in the past. I love that Rahab was the one who pointed these spies back to their Mighty God. I love that she acted on this belief in God and helped to save the spies. Belief and action! I also love that Rahab is in our Dear Savior’s lineage! Not only was she saved but her family too! God is so creative and full of Grace! Such a line of love, provision and Grace!
I can relate to what others are saying hear. My tired mind and eyelids closing over hear make it even more difficult for me to comprehend what I am reading. “I must remember what is true when the stresses of life fill me to the brim. I must remember who is true.” Sometimes I wonder if I would be able to lie and hide someone or something. My heart would be beating so fast and I’d probably be sweating, hoping I wouldn’t be found out. But Rehab seemed so calm, she was strong, courageous and unafraid.
Wow. I love the point of “Rahab calls to mind what she knows and then professes what she believes”. We have the head knowledge but do we live like we believe God is who he says he is?
We give our hearts to him.
I love these last few readings with Esther and Rahab that show how women from the most unlikely places are being used by God. Esther was an orphan and ended up becoming queen and saving the Jews. Rahab was a prostitute. And yet, God used them both. It’s amazing what God does in each and every life!
I have a hard to understanding also. I come to the comments to see if someone has reworded anything and also the after study page helps a lot.
I ask God to take me to a place where I can relate to these his Word and what I’m supposed to get from the passage of scripture. It might not be the season that I’m in that I can fully understand the scripture but I journal about it and pray on it so the times that I need to go back I can read and understand what is meant for me at that time. I pray that you can find a way to get into the Word.
I enjoyed this passage a lot. I saw it in another perspective: When we follow God’s will in our lives other people will see and turn their hearts to believe in Him. Rahab, a prostitute turned her heart and believed in God! She protected God’s men because she believed in God’s greatness! Of course, just like the ruler of Jericho, there will also be people who persecute us because of God. But we must remain faithful for the few who will turn their hearts. We must be strong and courageous!
I serve an amazing n powerful God!!
God is faithful and he has a divine purpose for each of our lives.
Incredible that Rahab believed so fully – to put her own life in jeopardy – with the simple knowledge of God’s past wonders. What grace, to come from such a dark place and become one of the few women listed in the line of Christ. God is so incredibly good.
Lord you are God of heaven above and earth below. Help me to remember what is true and who is true when the stresses of life fill me to the brim.
Humbled by Rahab’s awareness of and belief in God.
Circumstances always shift and change, but God doesn’t. Rahab knew this and acted on it, what a testimony.
Lord i shall be encouraged in you
Amen!
Thank you for sharing ❤️
This story is profound in which God shows his grace and mercy to Rahab by using her to profess who he is and through that word of faith it saved Rahab and her family. I’m committed to profess who GOD is daily.
I feel like I struggle with understanding these stories. The God they speak of seems so distant to today’s times. The culture was so different, it’s hard to even imagine and put myself in their shoes. The God I experience today through the Holy Spirit is the same as the days of Rahab and Joshua but it’s so hard to connect them sometimes. I’m trying to be more honest with God when I feel these disconnects so that He can open my eyes to understand things better and to connect to the scripture on a deeper level.
I was thinking today of how this woman’s story encouraged the Israelites then and now and still encourages US. This ONE DAY of her choosing to believe that the One True God was worth her risk… and that she believed He was good enough to be her salvation (and that of her family)… and THAT is what we remember her for… is just amazing.
Amen.
Remembering what HE has done through the good and the bad. Beautiful reminder.
Amanda, thank you for this devotion today. It was perfect timing (as usual). Just yesterday my MIL told me that she can only think of one person she would call a “true Christian” and that was because of her “quiet faith.” She didn’t proselytize to others, she just lived quietly. :-/ Just imagine if that was how things had been for Rahab….
“I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the terror of you has fallen on us…
we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea before you…
When we heard this, we lost heart, and everyone’s courage failed because of you,
for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below”
It really hurt my heart. Not just because it was a dig aimed at me, but because I truly love my LORD with all my heart and I want the whole world to know. I pray that I will hear the Holy Spirit’s words when I need to speak out and also feel His quieting presence when I should not.
Oh LORD, may the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you.
Hillary
it’s just like in the movies it’s jumping to different parts of the scripture to give a better understanding of the entire plot of what is happening.
Joshua 2 – giving the account but then we switch to numbers 13 which gave you the backstory of the entire movie. Hope that helps
I am here also North Dallas- doing my lesson late and reading all the post and listening to all the songs of remembrance as an encouragement.
I didn’t see anybody comment on this but it struck me funny- how did she know who these men were. She was a bad girl in the Bible.
In a commentary I read today along side chapter to the teacher/ writer of the commentary made reference to Rahab have been confronted with two sinful options “lying or abetting” to the execution of gods people and how she chose to protect them. 
This to me is another precious account of God using ordinary people to accomplish his work. Another great mystery of God.
Ladies: Thanks for the songs. So relevant and another “Stones” for remembrance
Where do I find the podcast for Esther? I really want to listen. Thanks!
You never know when your testimony will affect someone else’s life. Sharing your personal stories of how God has worked in your life is the best way to evangelize to others. Not by throwing scripture at them or even handing them a Bible- tell them your story. It’s the most powerful thing you can do besides pray for them.
So true. Thank you.
Words to live by ♥️ His faithfulness never fails.
This is all so amazing! ❤️ thank you for sharing!
Needed this reminder today! ❤️
Love the story of Rahab and the scarlet cord.
Remember what He has done! Great are You Lord!
God is good all the time, not just in good times and we should worship Him for his goodness at all times.
I was writing notes in my study and than looked at everyone else’s, but did not see it, while writing, as you all saw. I saw that Rahab took a stand and risked everything, including her and her families lives, without having a relationship with the Lord. Just knowing of a God and what she heard and she wanted to be a part of that. As Christians, especially in this time and age, will we even speak up, speak out, and stand for what God’s word says? Risking everything? Made me think how courageous Rahab was and how much MORE courageous should I be KNOWING THE KING OF KINGS!? That no matter what is at stake, we should ALWAYS stand for the WORD and the LORD and nothing else should take the place.
Be courageous through Christ. And remember to be thankful and grateful through EVERY circumstance, for the Lord our God is ALWAYS faithful!!
Such beautiful and heart warming testimonies you all have shared. Such a tremendous blessing for me to read and soak in the goodness of God through your lenses. Thank you ladies!
The love of God and His wisdom is unsearchable. I realized that here in the story of Ahab, it took one person that comes to faith and bring things to fruition, as in Joseph’s story- sold into slavery in a foreign land, became second in command, and delivered the nation, also one person. Someone used to ask this question, how many people does God need to stand firm in faith to change things around for a nation? I saw here, one. Nations can be delivered, by the hand of God through one simple ordinary anybody.
Thank you Ginny for suggesting to look up the Crimson Worm, like the Scarlet thread in Ahab’s story. God is so detailed in his prophetic analogy in Psalm 22. I will copy and paste here what I found:
** Psalm 22 (sometimes called the Psalm of the Cross) is a great chapter of the Bible that tells about the suffering and death of Christ 1,000 years before he actually gave his life upon the cross.
In verse 6 of Psalm 22, Jesus says something odd: “But I am a worm, and no man.”
What did he mean by saying “I am a worm”?
Usually in the Bible, the Hebrew word for a worm is “rimmah”, which means a maggot – but the Hebrew word Jesus used here for worm, is TOLA’ATH, which means “Crimson worm” or “Scarlet worm”. Both scarlet and crimson are the colors of blood – deep red.
When it is time for the female or mother Crimson worm to have babies (which she does only one time in her life), she finds the trunk of a tree, a wooden fencepost or a stick. She then attaches her body to that wood and makes a hard crimson shell. She is so strongly and permanently stuck to the wood that the shell can never be removed without tearing her body completely apart and killing her. The Crimson worm then lays her eggs under her body and the protective shell. When the baby worms hatch, they stay under the shell. Not only does the mother’s body give protection for her babies, but it also provides them with food – the babies feed on the LIVING body of the mother! After just a few days, when the young worms grow to the point that they are able to take care of themselves, the mother dies.
As the mother Crimson worm dies, she oozes a crimson or scarlet red dye which not only stains the wood she is attached to, but also her young children. They are colored scarlet red for the rest of their lives. After three days, the dead mother Crimson worm’s body loses its crimson color and turns into a white wax which falls to the ground like snow.
It is very interesting that, just like the Crimson worm, Jesus sacrificed or gave up his life on a tree so that his children might be washed with his crimson blood and their sins cleaned white as snow. He died for us, that we might live through him!
“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18
So true! It is so easy to remember God’s faithfulness and promise to us in easy times but we should preach this truth to our hearts in difficult times as well.
I needed this reminder today! My family and I are waiting to close our very first home. Unfortunately, our town has been hit by ice and snow and very cold temperatures. There’s a lot of uncertainty right now, a lot of unanswered questions. But I know that the God that has provided the house for us will provide a way for us to move in I just the right time! He knows all of our questions and he already has all of the answers. All we need to do is be patient and trust, easier said than done. He has come through before and he will do it again. This whole process has been a trust exercise for sure. It has tested us, but it is proving to only strengthen my faith. This has all happened during the 40 day fast at my church has been going through. I will continue to remember the ways that God comes through. His ways are not my ways and his thoughts are not my thoughts.
Rahab’s house was on the outskirts of the city. Which means if the city was attacked her and her family would be most vulnerable. The God is heaven and earth saw fit to save her… The one the world thought was least worthy of protection.
I have 3 children. Two of them I almost lost to car accidents and a freak accident. My third I have lost to the world. After thinking he was a Christian he and his wife informed us that they never did really believe. God has shown His Love and Mercy in saving two of our children and I am praying that He will pull my other son back into the fold.
What amazes me is that I don’t look back and see what God has done in the past and focus on the bad that is going on around me now. Wow I just woke up and realized how very blessed we are and nothing is impossible with my God.
Rahab is one of my favorites! Her faith in the God she had only heard of sometimes makes me go back to my own and recommit to the same God, who I know!
I had no idea about this! Thank you so much for sharing. You are exactly right it definitely adds a whole new layers of redemption and goodness❤️
Taylor – thank you for this song, it was needed today
Rebecca Ferrel, since you ask us to share God’s goodness, I’ll try here in short. God healed my broken relationship with my sister & my Mom. He gave me actions that avoided rape or/&death, pulled my Grand Am over snow drifts as high as the car, kept the car driving 1.5 hours in bitter cold abandoned highway on fumes alone, gave me a love for my husband, sent us both on a vacation of a lifetime leaving all my fears of the trip in His perfect hands. He worked out the details beautifully. God orchestrated a plan that eventually led to saving my sons life. Upon realizing i had no change for hospital parking, he sent an angel to provide my need, He gave me the last 7 years of my workaholic dads life to get to know him super well. Twice i have gone through vehicles, once through a sign while driving precariously, but God’s timing is sure and He deleted the incident. God healed me of circulation, bladder, feet and anxiety problems. He allowed me to take part in Him bringing healing to others too. Our business keeps going even through covid; nothing short of a miracle. I love it that when i am bitter but pray to trade it for love, God gives me compassion and a forgiving heart, thus saving me. He owes us nothing but yet gives us the world. I stand in awe of You, my God!
It seems easy to praise and worship God when things are going good. But, it takes focus to do the same when things are not so good. I confess, I struggle in this area. It’s getting better. I have learned some hard lessons over the past few years. They have made me realize there comes a point when all you can do is praise Him and allow Him to work in your lfe. Because even in the hard times there are good times, you just have to look for them.
God has been so faithful in my life. Getting me through the pain of divorce. So many times I was on the floor sobbing out to God and he comforted me. I did not have a relationship with God when I was younger and had bad behavior. Giving me strength to take care of my son. Making me a perfect match to donate my kidney to him. I was scared and he gave me peace. So much peace. The surgery was a breeze. I’ve prayed for Christian women to come into my life and He answered me. Sometimes I forget to remember all that He has done for me.
I actually had forgotten that not only Rahab was promised to be saved, but also her family, or whoever was in her household at the time of the attack.
I love that throughout the Bible, we see how God can use anyone, regardless of their past, their faults, etc…. to fulfill His promises. Although Rahab was probably regarded as one of the lowest in society because she was not only a woman, but also a prostitute, and God used her! Our God is a God of healing and restoration for those that will submit to Him! Rahab knew God’s power and she was “strong and courageous “ to do what she did. I love this story and that she immediately put the scarlet cord outside of her window because she wanted them to remember her! The theme of redemption and scarlet cord that reminds me of the blood shed for our redemption. “The Lord your God is God in Heaven above and on earth below.” Thank you, God, for your redeeming love.
Aimee – praying for you and all those effected by this crazy cold weather.
So many blessings in my 58 years. God is the God of comfort. As I stumble through this life He is always there with an arm to lift me and a peace to keep me and a joy to keep me moving forward.
Rehab – this story always astounds me. In the middle of the chaos it is she that protects them and cares for their needs with a place to stay and with words of the state of the nation. I tend to look to great leaders for this type of information. Gods work is often so countercultural, and it reminds me of those overlooked around me that could be the biggest asset instead of being shunned. How would I respond to a couple of men coming back with news they learned from a prostitute? Probably not so favorably!
“Join me in recalling what you’ve seen God do” What if we all shared God’s faithfulness in our lives? If this stream of comments was a stream of his faithfulness to remember.
God has shown up in big ways and small ways in my life. He has cared for the catastrophe and he has cared for the quiet, secret tears of my heart.
When my husband had a severe accident that left him with a year of recovery and no way to bring in income God blessed us with Christ Family who paid our mortgage just when we were on the verge of panic.
When I held hurt and pain like an armor in my marriage God pulled me close and taught me to forgive. He lead my husband toward surprising tenderness that paved the way to heal brokenness in our marriage.
As I recall so many other ways he has been kind and faithful in my life it reminds me of the old hymn “Great is thy Faithfulness”
Rahab – an outsider with a less than desirable background not only saved the spies and turned to faith in God, but she is one of the few women of faith recorded in Hebrews AND she is in the genealogy of Jesus! (See Matthew 1) – she is the mother of Boaz! The kingsman redeemer for Ruth (the great great grandmother of David). Rahab was married to an Israelite named Salmon. He isn’t mentioned in Joshua specifically but some scholars believe he was one of the spies that Rahab hid. If that is true it adds a whole layer of God’s redemption and goodness to the story. ❤️
Wow, I wasn’t aware of that.
It is so encouraging to hear all your guys thoughts and encouraging words. Praying for you ERB and those in Texas and without power. The same thing here happen to people in Oregon and my parent in law have been without power for a few days now. As I read this story of Rehab and how she recalled God’s goodness and mighty hand over Israel I am encouraged but saddened how quickly I forget how much God has moved in my life and in these last few years. I was told my daughter wasn’t going to make it due to low amniotic fluid and it might be best to end the pregnancy but here I am reading God’s word to her when I do my devotional in the morning placing in her bouncer and babbling to herself. She is my miracle and my daily reminder of God’s healing hand. For those who are struggling and discouraged remember who God says he is and that he is carrying you through these moments.
The story of Rahab is a lesson in discipleship. Like I couldn’t help but think “who told Rahab these stories about God?” It’s a lesson I’m learning now with this study, that people are watching and listening and who knows what mighty things I could be influencing with my actions and words.
Very interesting perspective
Ladies, your responses uplift me. I posted yesterday about being in a season I didn’t think I would revisit so soon (but here I am in less than a year). I thank you for your prayers. Please keep them coming. I pray for guidance and faith and understanding in the days, weeks, and months to come. Have a great day.
My people at work are my Rahabs….who knows the plans God has for them to be a part of….I’m just fertilizing the soil. I may never know what comes of it this side of heaven…but today I’ll look at them as this amazing woman!
Shouting with you Nanak, singing with you Tina. Our God is immutable, compassionate, Creator, Lord of Armies, Faithful and so full of grace!! Audrey Lo praying with you for your step as you look to the One who makes the lame walk, He will be there you can know He is walking with you as you step in faith!Sherry praising God and praying for your scans. Erb praying for your medical tests for Jesus, for God’s best outcome. Jaedyn praying with you for your Dad’s turn around and for him to feel Jesus near as He recovers. To our God be all glory! Praise God for Rahab’s faith! Please Lord keep my eyes on you my Redeemer! Love and His light to you Sisters.
Some events happened this weekend that should’ve left me as a complete mess. My family checked in on me thinking I’d be devastated, but I’m okay. I’m more than okay. I feel the presence of my Jesus like He’s right beside me. I know He has me sheltered under His grace as He has done for me over and over and over. I know He loves all His children, but sometimes, at times like these, I feel like I’m His favorite. Stay close to Him, friends. Let Him be your constant and He will fill you with joy and peace beyond all understanding.
God, in His grace, reaches out to those with sordid pasts and no history with Him. Joshua 2:11, God in heaven above, and in earth beneath”: She confessed the realization that He is the sovereign Creator and Sustainer of all that exists. The recognition of God for who He is will get a person saved. Rahab has fulfilled the Scripture in Romans:
Romans 10:10 “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”.
Rahab does not know this God of Israel personally, but she believes in her heart that He is truly God. Rahab realizes the idols are not real. She expresses here, that the LORD, He is God of everyone. This type of faith gets God’s attention. The sinful life she is living cannot keep her from being redeemed. God will wash her and make her sins white as snow.
Those, whose lives Rahab had begged for, will have to be in her home to be safe. The scarlet thread is speaking of red. Red means blood or life. This red thread is symbolic of the blood of Jesus Christ, which saves all who will dare to believe. It was the blood of the lamb, which saved the Hebrews in Egypt. This type of sign of safety is throughout the Bible. It began with the blood covenant God made with Abraham.
This is the very same thing as the blood on the door of the Hebrews houses. If they were not inside the house with the blood, they were killed like the Egyptian firstborn. This is speaking of the blood of the Lamb of God protecting Rahab and her family, who are covered in the blood. Christians are washed in that same blood, and made righteous in God’s sight.
In her devotional she speaks about her cup spilling over and how easy it is to concentrate on those specific spills alone and getting frustrated … this really resonated with me. I easily take on each “spill” in daily life and let them take over me mentally and physically. I sometimes forget to take a second and look to God during these times of daily struggle and see the bigger picture. Yes life throws things at you .. but God is our constant place to fall and find comfort. If we remember that, than those daily spills won’t seem so big ..
@candy B – thank you for your insight! This spoke to me this morning. I love the contrast of Rahab’s report vs the report in Numbers. Don’t focus on the giants. Focus on the promises of God and remember his greatness!
God is so timely. Three years ago today I was sitting in a hospital waiting room while my husband was having major open-heart surgery; the kind of surgery where they lower your body temperature, divert all the blood to your brain and stop your heart. He had an aneurysm on his aortic stem. It’s a huge God thing that they even found it. Usually, they discover this when it ruptures and you die. He was in surgery for 7 hours, ICU for four days, and in the hospital for another 7 days. It was the worse days of our marriage, but looking back, remembering I wouldn’t trade the things that I saw, heard, and learned for anything. God was so incredibly present. The people He sent into our lives, the songs on the radio, words spoken by complete strangers…to this day I am still in awe of Who He is and what He did for us. He is truly the God in heaven above and the earth below.
Amen Candy! The contrast stuck out to me too!
I was thinking that too! I wonder if hanging it immediately was also also serving as a reminder to herself in the days to come that God would save her!
God is faithful even when I’m not. I want to remember even when it’s hard. I never want to forget my God, Our God is faithful! We can trust Him.
I believe it was because of the first spies that came back with the negative report that the people of Israel wandered the desert for 40 years. The only people to enter the Promised Land from that original group were Joshua and Caleb. Only their descendants were allowed to cross the Jordan.
Amanda, thank you so much for your words this morning. They have inspired and challenged me!
Today’s devotion reminds me of the song “Evidence” by Josh Baldwin. I used to listen to it on my walk to my clinical at the rehab hospital. The main chorus goes “I see the evidence of your goodness all over my life” SO TRUE! And how tangibly I’ve seen God’s faithfulness in carrying me through the trials of my clinical, to studying for my boards, to passing my boards, and now in the job hunt I trust He holds my future in His hands.
Also can we talk about how Rahab is in the Hall of Faith (Hebrews 11)? So cool how God can use a “loudly-labeled woman” as Amanda stated, to further His Kingdom! NO ONE is past redemption!
Lastly, lifting up all those who requested prayer so far today: Sherry, Jaedyn’s family, and ERB.
Have a blessed Tuesday sisters!
Praying for you ERB. I’m so thankful for this group of amazing women and all that God does in our lives and how he uses ordinary people for his purpose.
Candi B, continuing what you’ve pointed out. The power of perspective is apparent in the contrast between Rahab’s confession and the account in Numbers. One was focused on the size and power of their enemy in the land. The other recalling the powerful acts of the God of the Israelites. When we focus on the enemy or problem at hand, it may look impossible. But when we put our sights and hearts on the might and power of our God, remembering his faithfulness in the past, we see that the battle is already won.
It’s sobering whenever you see someone outside of the faith remind you of just Who God is! I know that growing up in the church, being saved as a young girl, it’s so easy to become complacent and to “forget” what God has done. Daily, actively remembering what God has done, not just in my life but throughout the ages, is such a good practice and I need to do it more. God truly has done so much in my life…I am who I am today because of Him. It’s truly awesome. I so quickly forget and let the daily grind of life and circumstances cloud my mind. But when I remind myself of how faithful He has already been, the natural next step is to trust He will continue to be faithful!
My prayer is for hope (tiqvah) as tangible as the scarlet cord (also tiqvah) that Rahab hung out her window-brought RESCUE for her entire family. Jesus is our RESCUER-our Living Hope.
Amanda, thank you for your words of encouragement, and oh so timely (as usual). Just yesterday my MIL said the only true Christian she could think of never “spoke” of her faith. That made me sad for so many reasons….mostly because I love Jesus and I hope I take ever opportunity GOD provides to tell others about the wonderful things HE has done in my life. Think how different this story would be if Rahab had not heard of the mighty power of GOD!
May I shout it from the mountain tops for all the world to hear: “GOD is GOD in Heaven above and on earth below,” yesterday, today, and forevermore!!!!!
I just thank God so much for being so faithful and wonderful, for all He is! I am in awe of Him! ❤️
Rahab was a prostitute and yet God saw in her something else! God does this all the time. We need to always do the same. Seeing people for who they really are. She was scared but knew enough about God that she put her faith in his hands. Faith is the most powerful connection we have with God! I need to remember to put my faith in Him every day!
I know God is good and faithful even when things don’t happen on earth as I hoped they happened. The God who transformed my life is asking me to take a step. God I believe, help my unbelief may I trust you enough to take a step.
Praying that you walk in the peace that passes understanding as you meet with your medical team and that they will be encouraged by your faith.
I wondered why she hung the cord immediately, thinking there wouldn’t be a battle for maybe a week? Jews call it the Tikvah rope. Rope of hope. Interesting. Also found out that the word for scarlet is same word for a scarlet worm. See Psa 22. “I am worm and no man”. Same word. Look up the life cycle of the scarlet worm. Fascinating!
So sorry to hear it’s been so tough, Erika. All of that totally makes sense why you’d be feeling so emotionally weary. Your faith is so strong! Hard won, no doubt. Praying you’ll keep sensing His presence with you to help you through. ❤️
I love the connection that the devotion makes to the spiritual discipline of remembrance! That was the last one in the Faith in Practice study (which I only just completed yesterday), so it’s fresh in my mind. Before that, I never would have picked up on Rahab’s example of remembrance of how God has moved. Amanda B W, what a great insight into how we can apply Rahab’s example in our own lives, to walk by faith and not by sight in hard times.
❤️
Great reminder to look back on all God has done for me. The song “Great Things” by Phil Wickham comes to mind. He has been faithful through ever storm and will be forever.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4CY3nf1Mvw
Dana-Your prayer could be my prayer, with the exception of time (more like 17 years). I have seen Him in my life every day. There are moments I allow the world to seep in, BUT GOD (Tina) is there and pulls me back so my eyes are on Him. I too know there is so much more I can do to show my faithfullness to Him. He is setting the stage for bigger things. He is grooming me to share my experiences. He is allowing me these moments now, in small amounts. Permitting me to get my footing so I can Glorify Him in greater ways. I am so blessed, and Praise our merciful Father for bringing me to His presence. Thank you, Dan for sparking that fire and for allowing me to remember through your prayer.
❤️
Praying for you, ERB, as you face this big medical test. You are not alone. God has this.
Praying for guidance and peace. Praying for wisdom. I pray you will be reminded of about God is.
A few months ago I asked for prayer because I was having a biopsy. The biopsy came back non diagnostic. Which means they could not determine if the tissue was cancerous. So now I have scans to see if there has been changed. Today I meet with my doctor to find out if my newest scan shows change. What an appropriate devotion for me today. I am remembering what my God has done not just when the blessings flow but when they are hidden. But God!
What a stark contrast from the report of the 2 spies mentioned in Joshua to the one given in Numbers. The phrase that came to mind is “Everything is not as it appears.” Especially now, it is easy to get caught up in what I see and hear via the news and social media leading me down a path to worry and fret. But God…God is still in control and He already knows the outcome. This morning’s reading reminded me not to rely on the reports of others about all the “giants” in the land but instead to recall the faithfulness of God who says He will never leave or abandon me. (Joshua 1:5)
I am grateful for the shared reflections on here! Thank you
Well said, Kelly ♥️
How did Rahab hear so much about the God of Israel? How did she know such details? Simply because someone told her. Maybe more than one. The God of Israel was apparently the talk of the town. May it be so too, in our sphere of influence. May we talk of our God and the great things He has done for us. May others hear and know because we boldly speak out. Our personal testimony is often more effective, and more memorable, than a theological treatise. May others come to know because we shared what we know.
ERB – praying for you and the upcoming test! May you feel His presence and His peace that passes all understanding. Be strong and courageous- God is with you dear sister and He loves you so much! ❤️
Dana – your words touched my heart today and your faith encouraged me. Thanks for posting!
“The record of His faithfulness” I love this! The idea of claiming out loud what he has done resets that Holy fear of His might and promise! Today I proclaiming a four year old victory- the life of my son! He thrives only because of the Lords great faithfulness and answer to many prayers! God IS who he says He is and His promises are true! It’s not always easy, but His faithfulness remains and the hardships are proof positive of His truth. May be daily proclaim with boldness as Rahab did to remind ourselves that whatever our current circumstances are, He sees the end and WILL see us through.
Hi Rebecca,
The passage from Numbers took place before the passage from Joshua. Moses was still alive when the spies first went to scope out Canaan (Numbers 13) but in Joshua 2, it seems like Joshua sent another group of spies to check things out again since they were getting close to trying to take the land. I’m not sure how many years passed between the 2 spy missions, though. Hope that helps!
Good morning, Hillary! There were two separate Bible passages in our reading. The first one was from Joshua 2 where they reported back to Joshua. The second was a passage from Numbers when they had first spied out the land back when Moses was still alive.
I am not good with order of events when it comes to historical events. In chapter 1 it clearly states Moses is dead and then continues to refer to him in past tense. In chapter 2 it sounds as if the two spies report first back to Joshua but then also to Moses. What am I missing here? Can someone help me with this small detail? Thanks!
I always find it interesting the two stories of spies going to scout out the land. The first time, the Israelites were overcome by fear of the strong people and large fortified cities. Their lack of faith sent them back into the wilderness. This time the people in the land are the ones terrified and the Israelites are strong and courageous. What changed? The circumstances certainly didn’t. Their faith in their great God did. May my faith direct my attitude toward my circumstances, not the other way around.
A thankfulness practise has been my routine for almost three years. But lately I get chocked up thinking about all the tiny details that God aligned in order for me to have the life that I am currently living. It also makes me want to be present for my life right now as I know that we are setting the stage for the rest of my life. I am also keenly aware that my story is setting the stage for my children, and that chokes me up with equal parts joy, and fear if the Lord.
Today’s theme is so powerful! For those of you who’ve been praying for my dad & looking for an update – first of all thank you! He is still in the ICU and has actually been airlifted to a different, bigger city to receive better care. He’s still in critical condition but just like today’s devotional says, God has a history of being good. He’s never not been faithful and he’s in the business of miracles so we’re not in despair. I’m believing for a complete turn around and that healing is taking place, even if it’s slow.
Thank you so much, again if you’ve been praying. I’m hoping for a positive update soon!
Sisters I am asking for prayer… tomorrow (feb 17th-18th) I have a big medical test that lasts for 24hrs. This test and its results could change my life and I greatly covet your prayers and support. Thank you!!
God has given me so much proof that he is who he says he is — and still I forget. Instead, I fight and complain about why things aren’t going my way.
God, help me remember and proclaim your love and faithfulness everyday.
I take today’s reading and hold it in my heart. How brave of Rahab and how important it is for us to do the same. Our faithful God – he goes before us, he prepares the way, he knows the land. Be strong and courageous!!
If I can not recall anything…I will always remember the Cross
It’s amazing that even though she’s not an Israelite, she remembered the works of God. It’s so easy to forget in today’s world with the constant badgering from social media and 24hrs news cycle. I hope we can, in spite of the noise, always remember. God never fails. His love is like springtime and just as we know that after every winter comes the rebirth of spring, we must know God’s love and grace will come WITHOUT fail.
The LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below” (Joshua 2:11). We give our moments, days, and hearts to Him.
Absolute.
Absolute.
Truth!
I remember a time in my life when all it seemed to conspire against me.. when the chips were down and the battle, it seemed was won… but not by me! When sleep was something that others had, when the worry and the fear just seemed to multiply by the moment.. I do remember…
But I also remember..
But God..
But God…
This amazing, faithful God who walks alongside me silently, and though sometimes I know my redeemer is there, there are in times of trouble and strife a default that appears, without warning, and causes me to forget, for a moment, for a day, for a time.. But God..
What I love about Rahab is that she is going on what she heard, the stories of long ago, what was written or spoken of, by those who experienced the miracles and promises of God..Rahab was going on hearsay! To be honest, whst have you to lose, when you feel you are backed into a corner and you feel like there is nowhere else to turn but the hope and praises(to someone higher) of others!
How much more me.. who has seen, been a recipient and knows the wonderment of God. Me, who remembers and most often worships in praise on the good days, and oftentimes forgets in the storm!
Promises( Maverick city) at the moment, is my song.. the line.. “..God of Abraham
You’re the God of covenant and faithful promises
Time and time again
You have proven
You’ll do just what You said…Great is your faithfulness to me. From the rising sun to the setting same, I will sing your praise…”
Lord God, may this be my lifes anthem. To remember that through the ages you have been, still are and will always be our God who does, who works for our good, and forever has our best at heart.. always…
Lord I look to you..
Amen..
Blessed Tuesday Sisters, wrapped, always in love..❤
When Rahab recalled it all she was filled with fear, she knew that the Lord was against her people and her declaration of faith was from a place of fear. How glorious that, when we are in Christ, these powerful things which should lead us to cower in fear can give us the strength to be brave and courageous because the one we should fear is our heavenly father who loves us with an immeasurable love. Gives foundation to the be brave and have courage of yesterday!
Amen!!! Such a simple task to recall what God has done in my life, yet the daily tasks of life get in the way of remembering. However the times I am reminded the times I allow myself to confess Gods faithful are the times I feel most victorious and encourage and uplifted. I KNOW that whatever situation I am in I am not defined by the circumstances! I am marked and set apart! God is faithful, amen!
Father, only You could have given the abundant blessings You gave 17 months ago that changed my life for the better. Only You could display Faithfulness throughout my entire life…I see You at every turn; Protecting, Providing, Loving, Guiding. I am beyond grateful and I strive to bring You glory with my life. I’m far from perfect, and often times feel I have failed You again and again, but Your arms are always open and Your ears are bent near so when I cry out for You to change my heart and make me whole I know You hear me. Because of Your Faithfulness I know to Trust in Your timing and not fear silence. I long to always be so faithful to You. I love You Lord. Thank You for everything You’ve done and everything You will do. Amen.