Bold Actions By Faith Preserve One’s Household

Tuesday, August 25

Joshua 2:1,12-13 (NIV)

“Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim. “Go, look over the land,” he said, “especially Jericho.” So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there … [Rahab said,] “Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them—and that you will save us from death.”

Devoción

Rahab welcomed the spies from God’s people and lied to the king of Jericho to preserve their lives. She further obeyed the spies and tied the scarlet cord in the window through which the spies escaped. Just as we are sometimes tempted to risk our families by not taking a stand for righteousness in Jesus, Rahab was probably tempted not to bring trouble on her family by signaling with the scarlet cord. What if the king that Rahab had lied to noticed the scarlet cord and became suspicious? What if authorities in your life notice your love of Jesus and endeavor to tempt you or your family away from truth?

The same voice of fear can become a temptation to us as we endeavor to keep members of our household separate from the destruction that will be reaped from following the world. What is the voice of fear saying when you insist every member of your household remain free from drugs, sexual sin (including porn), occult activities, and idolatry? Do not listen to the voice of fear any longer than needed to identify it. Recognize that God did not give the spirit of fear, and say “No” to the fear as you ask for God’s help to move forward with seeing to it that you and your house serve the Lord in the strength and by the help Jesus provides.

God’s Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path as we seek to guide our households on the narrow way that leads to life. If there were never a threat or a risk to following Jesus, where would the need to trust be? If there were never a temptation to fear, why would Jesus have told us so many times, “Do not be afraid”? The world and the devil both are trying to disciple you and your household. By faith, identify with the blood of Jesus as Rahab identified with the scarlet cord. By faith, identify with God’s people through fellowship, church attendance, financial support, and co-laboring with them. By faith, identify with God’s Word by reading it, memorizing it, and praying for the right Scripture at the right time to quote it and bring change to your household and broader community.

Oración de hoy

Querido Padre Celestial,

Give us courage to lead our households in Your ways, even when doing so requires us to stand against the pressures of the world. Help us reject fear and choose faith-filled obedience. May our homes be marked by Your Word, Your presence, and a bold commitment to serve You. Protect our families and give us wisdom to guide each member toward the life You have called us to live. In the Name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Aplíquelo hoy mismo

Faith requires bold action. Like Rahab, choose obedience over fear and intentionally lead your household toward Jesus through godly boundaries, Scripture, prayer, and faithful participation in the community of believers.

Recursos

• Families are worth the fight! Watch “Fight For Your Family” and be reminded that your prayers, faith, and obedience can make a difference in the lives of those you love.

• Know someone who could use support in this season? Encourage them to join one of our Fall Support Groups! It’s not too late to register—remind them they don’t have to walk through it alone.