Daily Devotional | Rahab: Courage and Obedience

Have you ever experienced the call of God in your life? We know that God calls His people in at least two ways: generally, we are called into a redemptive and obedient relationship with Him, and sometimes specifically we are given a particular assignment for His glory.

This month we will return to study the lives of women in the Old Testament (see our first study in this series in March 2021). By looking closely at their lives, we will see how God called some to significant kingdom work and how He used others for His glory, even despite themselves.

The first woman we encounter is Rahab. While she doesn’t appear in today’s passage, the first chapter of Joshua helps us understand her place in the story. Moses had just died, and a still wandering Israel was looking for a new leader. In verses 1–9, God called Joshua to step into that leadership position. He charged Joshua, multiple times, to have courage and take strength. This was not going to be easy.

God also instructed Joshua to obey. The key to Joshua’s success would be his faithfulness to God’s law. Notice that, multiple times, God promised Joshua His presence. Just as God had been with Moses, He would be with Joshua and His people.

Joshua wasted no time in picking up the baton of leadership. In verse 10, he ordered his officers to prepare the people to move, giving special instructions to the Reubenites, Gadites, and half of the tribe of Manasseh, who would be settling on the eastern side of the Jordan. Israel responded to Joshua’s leadership with complete obedience as well—their own call to both courage and submission.

>> As we study the lives of these Old Testament women, beginning with Rahab, consider if God may be calling you to something that requires courage and submission. Remember that, when He calls you, He also promises His presence all along the way.

Pray with Us

Lord God, again and again You told Joshua, “Be strong and courageous.” Though we are not tasked with leading a nation, You have given each of us our own responsibilities—above all, the calling to obey You. Give us courage to obey!

BY Kelli Worrall

Kelli Worrall is Professor of Communications and Chair of the Division of Music and Media Arts at Moody Bible Institute. She is the author of several books, including Pierced and Embraced: 7 Life-Changing Encounters with the Love of Christ. Kelli studied at Cedarville University (BA), Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (MRE), and Roosevelt University (MFA). Kelli and her husband, Peter, are parents of two children through adoption and enjoy decorating their Craftsman house.