The Spies Promise to Protect Rahab

Joshua 2:12–24
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Joshua was a keen army general who sent two men on a secret intelligence gathering mission to spy out the Promised Land. The part about Rahab is an example of how God uses a sinner to accomplish His purpose and in whose heart He works a change.  Rahab was a “harlot,” or prostitute, in the city of Jericho. As a prostitute she lived on the edge of society, one stop short of rejection. Her house, built right into the city wall, provided both lodging and favors to travelers. It was a natural place for the Israelite spies to stay, as they would be mistaken for Rahab’s customers. 

Stories about the Israelites had been circulating for some time that the Israelites were about to invade. Rahab shared the general mood of fear with the rest of Jericho’s population, but she recognized something that many of the Israelites did not. Many would assume that Rahab, a heathen, Canaanite, and prostitute would never be interested in God. Yet she was willing to risk everything she had for a God she barely knew (vv. 8-13). Rahab had been a sinful woman, but when she heard of the true and living God, she believed in Him and chose to go His way. Her household was going to be saved by having the scarlet thread in the window which had also saved the spies. The spies said, “Whosoever shall be with thee ... in the house ... shall be safe." 

Application

If at times I feel like a failure I need to remember that Rahab rose above her situation through her faith in God. I can do the same! I must not gauge a person’s interest in God by his or her background, lifestyle, or appearance. I should never let anything get in the way of my telling people about Christ.