I had a conversation with someone a couple of Saturdays ago. And they reminded me of things I did in the past that were very hurtful to them. I couldn’t deny it. They knew the truth. I knew the truth. So, I had to acknowledge the fact that yes at that time I sinned. A lot.
Of course I brought up how that was me back then, but now God has changed me. In a similar situation today, I would never do those things.
We’ve all got a past. Things we wish we could erase. Words we’ve said. Choices we’ve made. Moments we hope know one ever finds out about. And for so many of us, those sins-those mistakes-feel like permanent labels.
Today, I want to talk about a woman in the Bible. Her name is often followed by a title: Rahab the prostitute. Not Rahab the woman of faith. Not Rahab the ancestor of Jesus. Not Rahab the loyal servant. Just…Rahab the prostitute.
And yet, God used her. He used her faith. He used her willingness. He didn’t ask her to be perfect- He asked her to believe.
In a world that tries to define us by our failures, God defines us by our faith.
Starting right now at this moment, we are going to shake off the shame. We’re stepping out of hiding. And we’re reminding ourselves that we serve a God who doesn’t just forgive sin-he redeems sinners.
Rahab’s life was marked by sin, but transformed by faith. Does that sound a little familiar like your life? Or are going through this renewing of your mind right now?
In Hebrews 11:31 the Bible reads, “By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.”
This verse expresses the essence of this blog post today: you are not your sins. Through Rahab’s story, we will uncover how faith can redefine our identity and lead us to salvation.
Rahab’s Past Does Not Define Her Future
Rahab was a Canaanite woman living in Jericho, known for her choice of business which was prostitution. Society labeled her, but God saw her potential. What is your label right now? What is the label that people have put on you? They might call you a liar, thief, or drug addict. Maybe the labels are whore, homewrecker, or lazy. Perhaps others say you’re stupid, too much, your extra (I have been told this is mine), too independent, aggressive, bi%^h, or ghetto, and the list goes on.
In Joshua 2:1, we see that she hid the Israelite spies, demonstrating her courage and faith. In Joshua 2:1, Joshua secretly sends two spies from Shittim to Jericho to scout the land, particularly the city. They are told to observe the city, and they go to the house of Rahab, where they lodge. Despite her past, God chose to use her for His divine purpose. Just as Rahab’s past did not define her future, neither does ours. Romans 8:1 reminds us, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Our past mistakes do not determine our worth in God’s eyes.
Faith Leads To Action
Rahab’s faith was not passive; it compelled her to act. In James 2:25, we read, “In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?” Her faith prompted her to take risks and make choices that aligned with God’s will.
This verse is all about the relationship of faith and work. James 2:17 states faith without works is dead. Rahab’s courageous action showed she had genuine faith. Her past did not disqualify her from being an instrument in God’s good works. We are not immune from God’s plan just because we have had some shortcomings. Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are “God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” When we embrace our identity in Christ, we are empowered to live out our faith through our actions. Look beyond the label and see who you really in Christ.
Rahab not only saved the spies life; she helped save Israel and her family. She took a step toward faith and challenged all the labels that was put on her, the cruelty she was subject to, the stares, and the insults. Her shame did not hold her back!
Rahab’s story concludes with her being in the lineage of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 1:5, we see that she is listed as an ancestor of our Savior. This powerful truth illustrates that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Titus 2:11 states, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” Rahab’s life exemplifies that redemption is available for everyone, regardless of their past. When we accept Christ, we become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17), and our sins are washed away.
As we reflect on Rahab’s story, let us remember that we are not defined by our sins but by our faith in Jesus Christ. Just as Rahab found redemption and purpose, so can we. Our past does not dictate our future; our faith does. Let us embrace our identity as children of God and live boldly for Him.
I have a few questions for you to ponder on. Feel free to answer in the comments:
- How have labels or judgments from others affected the way you see yourself?
- Rahab was called a prostitute, but God called her faithful and used her in His plan. What name or identify do you need to let go of today?
- Are you more focused on who people say you are, or who God says you are?
- What steps can you take this week to walk in faith rather than fear or shame?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the story of Rahab and the reminder that our past does not define us. Help us to embrace our identity in You and to live out our faith boldly. May we be vessels of Your grace and love in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Janice
God Inspired Her 
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