We have heard...

Today, I was taught again through Scripture that it is essential that the good works of God be publicized so that others may hear about Him. As I study Joshua 1 and 2, I see the faithfulness of God as He keeps His promises, the strength of His call to Joshua His servant, His mercy to a harlot in the midst of taking over the land, and the power of God's reputation.While all of these points are huge to me as I face my own call from a mighty and faithful God, I'd like to focus on Rahab's response to the rumors of this God of Israel. The news of the parting of the Red Sea, the defeat of other kings in the area, and the impending contact with this group of former slaves has prompted worship from a prostitute in Jericho. She says in Joshua 2:9-11

"I know that the LORD has given this land to you and that a great fear of
you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear
because of you. We have heard how the LORD dried up the
water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to
Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you
completely destroyed. When we heard of it, our hearts melted and
everyone's courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God
in heaven above and on the earth below. (emphasis mine)

Now, she and all of Jericho fear the Israelites, but the fear is in response to the power of this God who goes before His people. Imagine the result if Moses had claimed some bizarre magical power had enabled him to part the Red Sea. What if the Israelites had glorified themselves in battle and presumed to think that they could route the enemy? The last sentence in Joshua 11 would not have been uttered that day. May I never again take glory away from the only One who deserves it!

The purpose of God--that the whole world will be under Christ and worship the One True God--was brought closer to completion as this woman in the wall of Jericho heard of His works and recognized the authority of Jehovah. Do we live in such a way that the works of God are attributed to Him? Are His glories made public as we live with grateful and humble hearts? Oh that the world may hear and respond to the grace of God played out in our lives. May they hear of Him and worship.

As I continue in this new life He has called me to, may I be faithful to recognize His good works, His grace, His power. I suppose I could share my gratitude toward the Father on some sort of blog... :)