Rahab

Today's devotion was written by Mary Davis, a woman in my church.  God has used her to "stand in the gap" for her family, our church and complete strangers.

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” Ephesians 3:20


“And I sought for a woman among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before Me.” Ezekiel 22:30

A gutsy harlot is what she was, but it’s what she became that counts. Of course better words for “gutsy” might be courageous, fearless, intrepid, and determined. Rahab may have started out as a harlot, but she was determined not to end up as one. She valued her life and made the decision that the God the Israelites served just might cover her with His grace if she helped His people. This courageous act merited her exactly that…God’s grace and mercy.

The heart of Rahab is seen in her actions and proven in the testimony recorded in both the books of Hebrews and James. “By faith the harlot Rahab was not killed with them that didn’t believe, when she received the spies with peace.” (Hebrews 11:13) “Likewise also Rahab was justified by works, when she received the messengers, and sent them out another way.” (James 2:25)

Fearlessly, Rahab, the former harlot stood in the gap and won the heart of God.

One woman plus God can do wonders with the power that came with the Holy Spirit. That woman could be you.

Heavenly Father, how loving and kind You are to use a woman of ill repute to stand in the gap. Not only is Your love seen in how You used and protected Rahab, for the safety of Your people, but Your great love for Your chosen…the Jewish nation. Beyond that You had a greater plan. You chose Rahab to mother Boaz, the lineage from which Your Son would come into the world as a ransom for all…the greatest act of love ever. Perhaps you will use me, us to “stand in the gap”. Thank You Father, Amen.

Blessings,