CHANGED
Today’s Scripture: “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, ESV
Theme: Like Rahab, we can celebrate that shameful labels no longer apply to us.
FINISHING WHAT THEY STARTED
Rahab could have believed in God and made commitments, but that would not have been enough. She put "feet to her words" and followed through with her actions. Likewise, Joshua and the spies honored their own commitments to Rahab. Because she revered God, Rahab's obedience spared the spies' lives and brought about salvation for herself and her whole family. Her boldness and faith encouraged the spies and Joshua. Because of their continued obedience, God would fulfill His plan to give them the Promised Land. What a heritage and blessing! What joy for the people to see Jericho topple and witness their first victory in their new home!
FAITHFULNESS REWARDED
Because of her faith, Rabab “the prostitute” is listed in the “faith chapter” found in Hebrews 11. She is named right alongside Abraham, Moses, David, and Samuel. Her small act had huge consequences. God changed her life. Though she is still described as a prostitute, she is praised for her faith and obedience. She is celebrated even today as a “hero of the faith.” She was made for and capable of so much more than the label she had gained earlier in life.
OUR CHOICE
In each life, there is opportunity for growth, even glory. We certainly have opportunities to fail and embarrass ourselves. But we can rest assured that nothing that we do for God will be left unseen, unrewarded, and uncelebrated. In His infinite knowledge, He sees the struggles and sacrifices we make, and He calls us heroes, also, for each gift, each act of mercy, and each step of faith.
Make it Personal: We can believe in God and read and memorize Scriptures, but until we do what the Bible and the Holy Spirit tell us to do, we aren't being fully obedient. And when we aren't fully obedient, we miss God's blessing. Make sure you don’t miss the celebration, either! In what way are your labels paralyzing your next step of faith? How can you courageously place your faith God? Know that your value and dignity depend on more than what you have done or been called. Celebrate with me that God makes heroes out of all kinds of people.
Pray: Lord, thank You for redeeming the broken and dignifying the ashamed. Your mercy and acceptance are worth celebrating. Help me to live out my potential without shame or timidity. In Jesus’ Name and by His sanctifying sacrifice, I release my concerns and fears to You. Amen.
Read: Joshua 6:25; James 2:14-17, 25-26; Isaiah 1:19-20
Memory Verse of the Week: “Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly.” 1 Chronicles 29:9, ESV