Joshua 2

The book of Hebrews contains this verse regarding the prostitute Rahab from Jericho, who trusted the God of Israel in the days of Joshua. “By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.” (Hebrews 11:31)

Rahab lied to an official inquiry from the king of Jericho about the two spies who were sent by Joshua to spy out the city. She hid those two men for a reason. She said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you the land.”

From the standpoint of her own country, this was treason. But the Most High God is above all rulers. As Peter would say centuries later, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge.” (Acts 4:19)

Rahab had heard the report of what God had done for His people. The Lord, who dried up the water of the Red Sea before them and gave Moses victory over the Amorites, was the true God. She believed this, and she took steps consistent with this faith. As James wrote so many centuries later in the New Testament, “Was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?” (James 2:25)

Living faith moves forward with works that are consistent with that faith. Rahab believed, and so she spoke. Even though her speech was a lie, it was an act of war that saved lives. She aligned herself with the Lord against her own people, and cared for the Lord's messengers.

“The Lord your God, He is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath.” This living faith is more than just words. Rahab insisted that her guests promise to remember her because she knew that God was giving the Land to His people.

Christ is coming to judge the living and the dead. The earth is the Lord's and all that is in it. Is the Lord God a household idol that we can safely keep on the shelf?

Rahab kept a scarlet cord in the window through which she let her guests escape. This cord was a visible testimony of faith. The church's regular participation in the Lord's Supper is a public testimony that we have received a promise of salvation from the Savior who gave His body and blood for us. We believe that He will return in victory.

Faith is a sincere commitment to present action in light of a sure future expectation. Faith saves households.

The Lord is coming. I am trusting that He will deal kindly with me and my household for the sake of the solemn oath of Jesus. He will save His people for the glory of God. I want to remember the faith I have professed in Him, and live the life of faith that Christ would have me live again today.