July 5, 2020 | Joshua 2:1–14

DEVOTIONS

This Month’s Issue

The day after the signing of the Declaration of Independence must have been a surreal moment for the Founding Fathers. They knew the real battle had only begun. There was no turning back. And in our text today, there was no turning back for Joshua and the Israelites. In his first move as the nation’s leader, Joshua sent two spies to scout out their enemies. Little did the spies know that help would come from an unlikely place.

For the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.

JOSHUA 2:11

The spies entered the land, although not undetected, and hid in the home of Rahab, a prostitute (v. 1). We will look at Rahab’s life more closely tomorrow, but her conversation with the spies is significant. Even though they were the first Israelites to ever set foot inside the walls of Jericho, the testimony and reputation of Yahweh was clearly well known. Rahab stated that the hearts of her entire country had “melted in fear” when they heard of what happened in Egypt and to Sihon and Og (v. 11). This phrase refers to one who is utterly distressed with fear and anxiety. Israel’s God had a powerful reputation!

Even though Rahab was an outsider and knew very little about their history, she confessed her belief that their God was indeed the one true God (v. 11). She agreed to shelter the spies in exchange for her security and the safety of her family (v. 13). What bravery they all showed at the start of this quest: not just Joshua and the spies, but Rahab too. There was no turning back. They would be okay if they were on God’s side.

You are probably inspired when you hear about God working in the lives of others. God works in people’s lives so that His name and renown will be widespread and glorified. Today, tell someone—or share on social media—about a way God has worked in your life.

cpd Post Credit: TITW