REDEEMED FROM REPROACH TO FAITH

"...only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent" JOSHUA 6:17 (NKJV)

On my way to church, I only had 5 dollars. I knew it was all I had, and I would give it for my offering in the service. Immediately, I started to rant, "Lord, I am disappointed and saddened with what is happening to our finances." However, in a second, I rebuked myself and said, "God has promised me more, and I will hold on to His promises," and I went ahead and gave my offering. The church service message that Sunday was "An Oath is Better than a Sign." On Thursday of the same week, my husband called me with news of settling a large case he had been working on for fourteen years. It is our faith actions that give God a reaction. I encourage you to change your disappointments to faith actions and let God meet you with a reaction!

The story of Rahab is an abnormal one. We know the lifestyle of a harlot is filled with rejection and reproach. The question is often asked, "Why would the spies go into a harlot's house?" The answer lies in the fact that the God of grace works in ways that are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8, 9). In analyzing the story's context, societies know that harlots do not turn away guests. Their homes are always welcoming, ready to patronize those willing to walk in. Her house would have been the perfect place for an alibi against the King of Jericho. What an ingenious plan!

The more significant questions are, "Why would a harlot even care about the Israelite spies?" And, "why would she even want to help them?" It is in the answer of these questions where we see Rahab's realization and transformation!

Rahab could have sided with her people, handed over the spies, and had them killed. Instead, she chose to save them and accept their God. Her career choice was not in line with their teaching, but her faith was in their God. She reverenced their God and desired to be on His side.

Despite the goodness of God, it is still mind-blowing why a harlot was found worthy to carry out the will of God. Rahab's story shows how much God is an orchestrator of the world and the people who live in it. He is the God of grace, redemption, and transformation!

Through faith in God, Rahab had a new view for her life. In Jericho, she was known as "Rahab the Harlot," but God redeemed her and lifted her! She will forever be known as "Rahab, Woman of Faith" (Hebrews 11:31), a woman who is worthy! Just like Sarah and Ruth, God made her worthy to be in His lineage. He raised Rahab to a new level in society where she is now looked up to; she is seen as a brave woman, full of faith, who demonstrates the goodness of God to humanity despite her reproachable past.

If you would like to be able to do a complete study of Session Eight, order a copy of HER STORY: Redeemed by contacting Empowered Women's Ministry at empoweredwomen@pcg.org or 817.554.5900 ext. 371. Available also at pcg.org/resources or Amazon.