Joshua 1 — God Commissions Joshua and He Assumes Command
Joshua 2 — Rahab Hides the Spies
Joshua 3 — Israel Crosses the Jordan
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Let the Word evoke words. May your life encourage lives.
Three times in four verses, the Lord tells Joshua to be strong and courageous (1:6, 7 & 9). With this introduction, the stage is set for a difficult portion of Israel’s story. Many battles will be fought as they get ready to cross the Jordan river.
Rahab the prostitute. Such an exceptional story. Joshua sent a pair of spies to Jericho. These not-so-clever men must have thought they could spy out Jericho from Rahab’s house on the wall. Apparently those coming and going from Rahab’s house were closely or at least easily observed by others and the “king of Jericho was told, ‘Look, some of the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land'” (Josh 2:1-2). Rahab was known by the king’s men (hmmm) and when they confronted her, they believed her story, “…they left. I don’t know which way they went…” (Josh 2:4-7). Rahab misdirects the king’s men and buys some time for Joshua’s spies.
Rahab says, “I know that the Lord has given you this land” and further explains how the reputation of the Israelites has caused great fear in the people of Jericho (Josh 2:8-11). This text supports those who suggest Rahab had reformed her ways although the label of harlot or prostitute stayed with her. Her great respect for God stirred her to be strong and courageous, to do what was right in the eyes of the Lord. She bargained for her family and the spies guaranteed kindness (though they couldn’t have predicted how this would be implemented) (Josh 2:14).
Be strong and courageous. Have we not heard of the great and mighty works of the Lord? Does this not command respect? As we read through these stories of old, may we be reminded of God’s amazing provision for his chosen people. Help me remember and regard your power Lord with great fear and reverence. Let this knowledge prompt me to action, to do something to advance your kingdom here on earth. We know the rest of the story, how you sent Christ to bridge the gap between us and you once an for all. Help us to be strong and courageous, full of this knowledge, to lead others into the promised land of eternity with you. Amen.