Faith Encompassing Her Family

Monday, August 24

Hebrews 11:31-34 (NIV)

“By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient. And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets, who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies.”

Devotion

Rahab was named in the Hall of Fame of Faith in Hebrews 11 as one of those who had great faith. She did not place her faith in the highly fortified city of Jericho, which she lived in and knew provided protection. Instead, having heard of the mighty deeds of God, she placed her hope in Him, believing that He would protect her and her family. Rahab and her people feared the God of Israel, but she did not dread God as her people did. Instead, she seemed to turn her fear from dread to a fearful reverence of Him, declaring that He was “God in heaven above and on earth beneath,” and thus she submitted to the fact that God was giving them the land.

Joshua 2:9–11 says, “And said to the men [the spies], ‘I know that the Lord has given you the land, and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land melt away before you. For we have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan, to Sihon and Og, whom you devoted to destruction.’ And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted, and there was no spirit left in any man because of you, for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.”

Rahab’s conclusion about who God was is why she could readily welcome the spies, ask them in, and ask them for protection. It is also noteworthy that the protection she asked for was for both herself and her household. Her faith was not just for herself but encompassed her family.

In Acts 16:31, we are told, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Rahab’s faith brought protection and salvation to her entire family. Our faith can do this for our families as well. Our faith welcomes Jesus into our household and can change the destiny of everyone in our family. Although each person has to personally believe to be saved, our faith opens the door not just to our hearts but also to our families, allowing God to flood our entire homes with His grace.

The dominion of our households can come under the protection and salvation of God by simply asking in faith. We must keep doing our part and continue to flood heaven with the names of our loved ones who are not saved, asking the God of heaven and earth to save our families. We can teach our families about the things of God, involve them in the works of the church, and engage them in worship. Ask God to lead you in how you can be a light in your home and help bring your family to Christ.

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for the example of Rahab, whose faith extended beyond herself and brought her family under Your protection. Help us to trust You with our loved ones and to faithfully pray for their salvation. Give us wisdom to be a light in our homes, courage to lead our families toward You, and faith to believe that You can transform the hearts and destiny of those we love. In the Name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Who in your family needs to experience the saving power of Jesus? Commit to pray for them by name, and ask God to show you how your faith, words, and example can help lead them closer to Christ.

Resources

• Missed service yesterday? Don’t miss this powerful message, “Family Heroes.” Take some time today to watch and be encouraged by God’s Word for your family.
• Couples, join us tonight at 7 PM ET for Online Couples Night! Make time to connect, grow, and be encouraged together. Don’t miss this special time designed just for you and your spouse! Register here.