Lent Day 20 - Rahab believed and asked
‘So she sent them away, and they departed. And she tied the scarlet cord in the window.’ Joshua 2:21b
Read Joshua 2:12–24 Rahab’s surprising faith in the God of the Israelites – the God in heaven above and on earth below – led her to immediate action. She knew that the Lord God was powerful, so she asked the spies to remember her and her family in the ensuing battle. The spies said yes. They organised a scarlet cord in the window so they could spare her when the time came. It’s an amazing story, and it seems even more amazing in the chapters to come, but at this point it’s worth considering the wonderful link between Rahab’s belief and actions. She believed, so she acted, immediately. She knew that the God of the Israelites was powerful, and that he could work to spare her, so she asked to be spared. Centuries later, of course, James wrote about faith and actions. He said that faith without actions was dead, and he even mentioned Rahab in his letter, saying, ‘Was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?’ (James 2:25). James knew that faith and actions go together, as in the case of Rahab. And it’s the same for us today. We also put our faith in Jesus, the one who sits on the throne with all power over heaven and earth and, because of that, we act in a myriad of different, daily, surprising ways, out of our trust in him.
Taken from A Time to Hope by Naomi Reed
A daily devotional that provides an accessible way into the whole Bible story.
Many of us have favourite Bible verses that we draw comfort from, but we don't always know their context or understand how they fit into the main story arc of the Bible.
Tracing the big picture of God's story through the key themes and events from Genesis to Revelation allows us to see the abundant riches in God's Word. As you read the unfolding story day by day, you can encounter God in all his glorious holiness and faithfulness.
If you have ever struggled to read the Bible from cover to cover, then this devotional will help you find a way in to God's big story and help you fall in love with Jesus all over again.
Pray
‘Lord, please remind us that our faith in you, as Lord of all, leads to daily, surprising action.’