Jesus' Spicy Grannies Devotions: Rahab

As the 2nd woman mentioned in Matthews' genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1), we know that Rahab has something to tell us. Something God wants us to remember today. 

While Tamar pretended to be a prostitute and ... (well you know what she did if you read Genesis 38), Rahab was a prostitute! She lives in Jericho's city wall and entertained Joshua's spies when they were sent on a reconnaissance mission to gain insight from behind enemy lines.

Rahab is remarkable because she chose to lie to her own people in order to save Israel's spies. In the annihilation of Jericho, Rahab and her family were saved and Scripture tells us that she "dwelt" with Israel from that time on--marrying Salmon (legend says was one of the spies) and had a son named Boaz. 

Don't you love these stories? These devotions accompany my podcast series: Jesus' Spicy Grannies

Here are your daily Bible readings where you can meditate on the story of Jesus' Spicy Granny: Rahab.

The story of Rahab, a key figure in the Bible, is mainly found in the book of Joshua. Her story highlights themes of faith, redemption, and the grace of God. Here are five daily Bible readings on the story of Rahab:

Day 1: Introduction to Rahab's Story

Scripture: Joshua 2:1-7
Key Points:

• Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho, hides two Israelite spies who were sent by Joshua to scout the city.
• Despite her occupation and the city's pagan idolatry, Rahab recognizes the power of the God of Israel.
• She risks her life by protecting the spies, which sets the stage for her involvement in the future conquest of Jericho.

Reflection:
Consider Rahab's bravery and her willingness to help the Israelites despite the personal risks involved. What can we learn from her courage?

Day 2: Rahab’s Confession of Faith

Scripture: Joshua 2:8-11
Key Points:

• Rahab expresses her belief in the God of Israel, acknowledging His power over the land and the hearts of the people.
• She recounts the fear of the people of Jericho, showing that she knew God's hand was upon Israel.
• Rahab's faith is highlighted as she declares the God of Israel to be the true God.

Reflection:
Rahab’s statement of faith demonstrates that God can reveal Himself to anyone, no matter their background. Reflect on how God has made Himself known to you.

Day 3: Rahab’s Covenant with the Spies

Scripture: Joshua 2:12-21
Key Points:

• Rahab asks for protection for herself and her family in return for her help.
• She makes a covenant with the spies, asking them to swear by God’s name that they will spare her when the Israelites take the city.
• The spies agree, giving Rahab specific instructions to hang a scarlet cord in her window as a sign of her faith and protection.

Reflection:
God honors those who act in faith and make covenants based on trust. Think about the commitments you have made with God and how they shape your life.

Day 4: Rahab's Role in the Fall of Jericho

Scripture: Joshua 6:22-25
Key Points:

• When the Israelites conquer Jericho, Rahab and her family are spared, just as the spies had promised.
• Rahab’s faith and actions led to her salvation, and she becomes part of the Israelite community.
• Her story exemplifies the mercy of God and how He uses people from unexpected backgrounds in His plan.

Reflection:
Rahab's inclusion in the story of Israel's conquest of Jericho shows God's grace. Reflect on how God's mercy has worked in your life, even when you felt unworthy.

Day 5: Rahab’s Legacy

Scripture: Matthew 1:1-5 (Genealogy of Jesus)
Key Points:

• Rahab is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, showing her important place in the lineage of the Messiah.
• Despite her past as a prostitute, Rahab becomes an ancestor of Jesus Christ, illustrating the power of God to redeem anyone.
• This highlights God's ability to use anyone for His purposes, regardless of their past.

Reflection:
Rahab’s inclusion in the lineage of Jesus is a testament to God’s transformative power. Reflect on how God can use your life for His greater purpose, no matter your past.

There you have it! Rahab...one of Jesus' Spicy Grannies!!