How can we trust God's protection when making risky choices for His kingdom? Setting the Scene: Rahab’s Risky Moment - Israel’s spies arrive in Jericho. - A pagan city, fortified and hostile, lies between God’s people and the Promised Land. - Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute, chooses to harbor the spies, placing her life on the line. Spotlight on Joshua 2:4 “ But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. So she said, ‘Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from.’ ” What Rahab Teaches About Trusting God’s Protection - God’s sovereignty works through ordinary people: Rahab’s occupation and nationality did not disqualify her from God’s plan. - Protection is often invisible until after obedience: Rahab risked first, experienced safety later. - Risk is measured by God’s promise, not human probability: Her calculation hinged on who Israel’s God is, not Jericho’s walls. Four Anchors for Trusting God When Choices Are Risky 1. God’s character is unfailing. • “The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of distress; He cares for those who trust in Him.” (Nahum 1:7) 2. His past acts predict His future care. • “He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us again.” (2 Corinthians 1:10a) 3. Obedience positions us under His covering. • Rahab tied the scarlet cord (Joshua 2:21); Noah built the ark (Genesis 6:22). Both obeyed before protection became visible. 4. God rewards faith that acts. • “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” (Hebrews 11:6) • Rahab appears in that same chapter (Hebrews 11:31) as proof. Protection in Action: Parallel Snapshots - Daniel 6:10–23 – Daniel prays openly, lions stay shut-mouthed. - Acts 5:17–20 – Apostles jailed for preaching, an angel opens the doors. - 2 Kings 6:15–17 – Elisha’s servant fears; unseen angelic armies stand guard. Putting It into Practice Today - Identify where obedience to Christ collides with cultural pressure. - Recall specific times God has shielded you; let memory fuel fresh courage. - Step forward in the assignment God gives, expecting His protection to match the task. - Keep visible “scarlet cords”: tangible reminders (Scripture verses, testimonies) that point to His covenant care. Final Takeaway Rahab’s split-second choice teaches that God’s protection accompanies, not precedes, obedient risk. When His kingdom agenda requires daring steps, His character, track record, and promises converge to guard those who move forward in faith. |
    |