Thursday, March 27, 2008

Reading Rahab

Hi everyone, and welcome to anyone new visiting today. We're studying the women of the Bible together online for the next month or so, and would love for you to jump in and join us!

All you have to do is come here each weekday, and either do the readings that are provided, or read the comments that are posted on those readings. Feel free to post a comment yourself too after you've done a reading.

I enjoyed all your comments on Potiphar's wife yesterday. It touches me to see so many of you posting to offer your insights, or put forth your prayer requests, or just share a piece of your authentic lives with us. And thank you for the prayers on my behalf as well - I'll certainly take those. :)

We're finally exiting the intriguing book of Genesis but there are still more surprising women to read about. Next we are reading about Rahab. So check out Rahab's story online here in Joshua chapter 2 and chapter 6.

I'll be leaving town today to speak this weekend and I'm not sure if/when I will have Internet when I'm gone. But I'll be back on Sunday and we'll talk about Rahab on Monday.

Be sure to pray for a clear mind, and a heart open to the Lord before you begin the reading.
Then post your "I read it" here once you are done.
Have a great weekend!

166 comments:

  1. I did it.

    Lolls - Nigeria

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  2. Have a great time at your engagement Racheal. Will continue to uphold u in prayer.

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  3. I’ve read it. Rahab proved herself to be a courageous, caring, and wise woman, no matter what had caused her to enter her profession. She truly recognized the power of the God of Israel and He rewarded her with the opportunity to know more, including her loved ones!
    May the Lord imbue you Rachel with His power and peace this weekend. I’m looking forward to your comments on this story.

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  4. I did it!
    Prayers for you, Rachel!

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  5. I read it! My prayers are with you
    Rachel, for healing and journey mercies. The LORD's annointing also be upon you at your speaking engagement. May you touch lives and bring more souls to Christ, in Jesus' precious name. Amen.

    Vickie, Lagos, Nigeria

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  6. I read it!

    Keri - Raytown, MO

    P.S. - Thanks for all the prayers, my heart feels much lighter this morning : )

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  7. fullofgrace92... i am an educator myself and i know how it feels to miss ur kids.Like all the stories we have learned in the bible so far, God can take bad and ugly situations and turn it around for our good.Let me pray for you,
    Father we commit fullofgrace92 to you..you see her repentant heart and you know her thoughts and her pain,i ask that u comfort her and wrap her in your arms and shower her with ur love and care.In jesus name i pray , Amen

    I have a song for you fullofgrace92

    There is no problem too big, God cannot solve it
    There is no mountain too tall, he cannot move it
    There is no storm too dark, God cammot calm it
    There is no sorrow too deep, he cannot soothe it..
    If he carried the weight of the world upon his shoulder,
    fullofgrace92, i know that he will carry you.

    sheena, malaysia

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  8. I've read it. What a strong woman Rahab was to negotiate this way to men. She showed more faith in a God that she hardly knew then many of the Israelites did. - Sylvia

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  9. I read it and can't wait to see what God has for us.

    Rachel have a blessed time this weekend and we will be lifting you up in prayer.

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  10. I read it. Eager for comments.

    Rachel have a wonderful Blessed time. God is with you! :)
    Lynn - OR

    P.S.
    Anyone that would like, check out my Blog, leave a comment or prayer request my e-mail link is there as well. I have posts on both blogs and will be adding more. God Bless.

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  11. I read it!

    Rachel--I too am praying for your weekend to go smoothly and for your family at home also!!

    Looking forward to the discussion on Monday!

    Kim from PA

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  12. I read it! May you be used in a mighty way this weekend!

    Jo Ann/Slidell/LA

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  13. Can't wait until we discuss!

    Plant Lady

    P.S. Thanks to everyone who has been praying for me.

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  14. I read it, and am looking forward to the discussion.
    Have a blessed weekend all..
    Joan

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  15. I listened to it :)
    Rachel I pray for you as you have your event this weekend.

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  16. Read it.

    Let the Lord continue to use you for His glory. Be safe.

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  17. I Read It... Have fun Rachel
    Fullofgrace I am praying for you :)
    Have a Great Blessed weekend e-1 looking forward to monday.
    Sharon/Florida

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  18. I read it... Here you find a woman that may have not been in the best profession yet she believed in the power of Lord and did what she knew was right... Amen to that! Just comes to show you, God can use anyone to fulfill his purpose. Have a great weekend everyone!

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  19. Traveling mercies Rachel. I know you will suceed in whatever you do my Sister in Christ. Be Blessed :)

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  20. I read it!
    How awesome, even in the old testiment God shows his awesome plan and Grace for even the prosistute (which all of us are equal to, where until our forgiveness!!)

    Praying for you Rachel!

    Ashley - Florida

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  21. I read it. :)

    Traci, WA state

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  22. I read it over!

    Beloved-New Brunswick Canada

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  23. I read it.
    Laurie in Ithaca, NY

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  24. I read it! Rahab was truly a courageous woman. I can't wait for the discussion about her. Francine Rivers has a series of books on some of the women of the bible. She has one about Rahab. Great story. Rachel have a Great weekend. Kim

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  25. Rehab is a courageous woman that acted on faith to help God's men. I'm also impressed that she made a deal and her word was true.
    You go girl!

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  26. I read it.
    Linda-Columbus OH

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  27. I read it

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  28. Read it. Thank You. Have a safe and rewarding trip.

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  29. I read it. I am new here, so bear with me! I have always enjoyed the the passages about Rahab. It proves that any one regardless of age, gender, race, social status, etc. can be used by God to do His will. And if I remember correctly, she was an ancestress of Jesus!! WOW!

    I hope to learn to put God first (no matter what the cost) in my life.

    Safe travels Rachel and I pray your engagement goes well.

    GOD BLESS!!

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  30. I read it. I don't think I've ever read her story before.

    Emily in Ohio

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  31. WooHoo! I did it! Good Luck on your engagement this weekend Rachel we are all praying for you! Let us know if there are any specific requests that you may have.

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  32. WooHoo! I did it! Good Luck on your engagement this weekend Rachel we are all praying for you! Let us know if there are any specific requests that you may have.

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  33. I read it. May God give you good health and clarity of thought this weekend.

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  34. I read it. Rahab was full of courage.

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  35. Read it, look forward to Monday's discussion, Have a blessed weekend.
    Ingyr, Columbus, OH

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  36. I read it.

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  37. I read it!

    Praying the Lord will use you to speak His words this weekend.

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  38. I did it.
    Rahab inspite of having a negative part in her life, she had the fear of God inside her very heart. She knew the power of the living God.

    Rachel i'm new to this site.. May the Lord's blessing be with u wherever u r going to speak! God bless!

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  39. I read it!!God is awesome as he uses people from every walks of life. My prayers continue for each of you. May you each have a blessed weekend!
    In Christ
    Lorri

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  40. I read the verses about Rahab. I became a believer in God as an adult, as Rahab did. I really think she was an innkeeper and not a prostitute. But, like me, she was used to taking care of herself and not depending on others. I was a big city girl who moved to rural New Mexico. It was through the love and care of a small church that I accepted Christ. The lessons I learned in that rural Baptist church changed my life for good - and forever. Someone ought to write a book about Rahab; about how God’s love gradually transformed her life and how she became a part of the Israelite community. There would also be some humorous parts. I bet that, like me, she had a hard time with control issues.

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  41. Hi Everyone-

    Thank you all that are leaving posts also on my blog. I feel God has a word for everyone of you..and believe me I am praying for each one of you by name! Peachnyt-ny I left you a note too. Plant Lady you are in my prayers, Sharon I feel the peace of God calming your spirit also, fullofgrace92 you have peace because the enemy has so many woman praying!! he doesn't have a chance :) Dana, Paula, Kim, God has a special plan for each one of you..I'm sorry I just wanted to say all this because I know not everyone visits my blog for my postings..please do..God is really using me for others..Praise the Lord!

    I read it..I just want to say a couple of things..Rahab was a brave woman and was crucial to Joshua's mission. But not only that..and this is important..God wanted to make the harlot holy, he wanted to clean her and make her pure. He wanted to be her God. And the last thing, because I want to be obedient to whatever Rachel has to say, God isn't looking for woman like us to be perfect, just woman who are willing, and have courage. Woman who will risk everything to trust Him. This was so important for me to say. I go around not trusting all the time..I can give great words of encouragement but I want to be a woman filled with courage and be pure in His eyes! Praise God!

    Ladies, have a wonderful weekend and I am going to post tonight after work on my blog something for everyone. As woman it is important for us to have a place in Gods eternal plan!

    Donna

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  42. Read it! Looking forward to discussion day!

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  43. Rahab listened and heard the stories of the Lord, she believed in the one true God, she confessed who the Lord is, and then she acted to protect God's people. When presented with a chance to be an active participant in God's plan she went with it without any recorded hesitation! Oh,that I too would not stop and worry or debate about what to do, but just jump right in and trust God completely!

    Rachel I will pray for you this weekend, may God grant you peace, wisdom, and joy!
    Emily-Vandenberg AFB CA

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  44. Please pray for me and my family as we just found out recently that my youngest son is not growing. He is 12 and only 4ft 3.5 in. He needs growth hormones, but time may be limited as we only have until his growth plates close (usually around 13-14yrs old) Actually we are waiting to find out if we can administer the drugs or if we are out of time already and to see if it is this simple or if he has a tumor on or near his pituitary gland in his brain. Also it turns out that 6 yrs ago when we asked the dr about his height we were told he was fine, but it turns out after reviewing his records they knew back then he wasn't producing enough growth hormone. I am not too angry, actually I'm either in shock or at peace (not sure yet which one :))I am concerned for my son who has such a sensitive spirit and how this is affecting him internally. When we first told him he was not as upset about the growth issues as he was because he felt betrayed by my husband and I because we had always told him he was normal and he believed us completely! He couldn't believe we would lie to him like that. We have explained to him that we never lied, we passed on what the dr had told us and we had believed the dr. Anyhoo, this is on my heart and I needed to tell someone this morning and I need prayer for wisdom about all of this. I'm scared to artificially alter my son and I'm scared not to as well. I just want whatever God wants for him. I just hope that if what God wants is for my son to experience a real trial at this age that my mother's heart can take it.
    P.S. my husband is not a believer at all, so I also pray as always that the Lord would show Himself to my husband in this and all situations.
    Emily-Vandenberg AFB CA

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  45. Read it. Cannot wait to see everones take on this one

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  46. I read it.
    Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.
    Kim/WI

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  47. I did in in TX
    ~ Christi

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  48. I read it - Rica from Winter Park, Florida

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  49. I did it.

    Deb - Ohio

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  50. Emily R -

    I will be praying for you. I was briefly friends with a kid that had a similar problem and found out about it in the 6th grade. He is now over 6 feet tall.

    Again though, I will be praying for you and your husband to find peace, for your son to realize that he was not lied to and that he is loved, and for the whole situation in general! I'll also pray for your husband as well - to find Christ.

    God Bless!!

    Rica

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  51. I read it!

    I am just catching up with all of the reading from last week. I have been following along since the beginning but I got distracted last week sometime. This is also my first time posting a comment. I really enjoy reading the posts and Rachel's outlook on the different stories. I find it interesting the power of a woman. We are powerful beyond belief and if we could just use that power for good, this world would be so much better. I really feel like there's a grand blessing on the other side of this bible study and I hope to my eyes focused on God and keep up with the readings.

    I have been reading the comments and praying for those that have prayer requests. I would like to throw my own prayer request in the mix. I would be so appreciative if you all would pray for me. I am a recent college grad and I am job searching and looking for a place to stay, all while trying to relocate back to my hometown Orlando. I am struggling financially and I just don't see my relocation working out without any prospects of a job and the money to lease an apartment. I just ask that you all pray for me, so that I can keep my focus on God and to stay patient(I am very impatient). I don't want to try and make a way for myself and it is not within God's will for me.

    Thank you for your prayers in advance. May God bless you all.

    Myrlande (pronounced Maryland), Gainesville, Fl

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  52. I read it, praying for everyone, God Bless, Josie

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  53. I read it. Can't wait for the discussion hopefully I will have time to post this weekend. Rachel, I have been and will continue to pray for you. Hope your eye is better. As far as the rest you are very blessed and I know you are going to do well with everything you set your heart to do. I'm praying for all my new friends here as I read your comments. I'm going to try to post to my blog this weekend. Girls you will never know how much I appreciate your prayers. I don't think my son has drank all week. He has been home every day & night with his little boy. Give God the Glory!! Thank you all for lifting us up. Please know I am praying even if I don't always get to post.

    Love you all,
    Dana

    P.S. I think I finally figured out my blog. Please visit if you can.
    I have sooo much to share with you all. Just no time to do it.

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  54. To Mimi:
    Peace and trust at all costs. If I know anything about our Lord it is His timing it perfect and we humans are very impatient for that perfect timing. A friend was recently looking for an apt for her parents. They were in a crunch and had to be out of their sold house in a certain time. They went ahead a put a deposit on a rental house that they didn't really want. That night they received a call that a much better place would be open on the 27th...their magic date was 28th!! They even received their deposit back from the first place.

    So, I say all this to say DON'T FRET. I'm sure everything looks impossible: job opportunities, housing, finances. BUT our God is a miracle-working God and He does some of His best work in the MOST impossible situations. I can testify to that now and I'll also have a glorious testimony in the future to come!
    Let me hear an Amen! LOL

    Rica - I would not see it as artificially altering your son...is it any different for those who are diabetic and have low insulin, or those with chemical depression who are missing certain chemicals. The beauty of medicine is that too is created and authorized by our great Creator. He is the master Healer and He has given many wonderful doctors the ability to diagnose and many wonder medicines to help our inefficiencies ultimately caused by the Fall.

    Thanks to all who continue to pray for everyone. Thanks to fivedesigns (Donna) for mentioning me by name.) For those who may have just jumped in, my prayer concern is for myself, my marriage, and my husband (or rather "ex" per the legal system) to see God's path in our relationship (Ironically, he IS a Christian and divorced me against God's Word.)

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  55. I read it. I will continue to pray for you Rachel.
    - Sheeba

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  56. I read it. Great story. I am so encouraged by all your insights. Your comments keep me focused on the goodness and faithfulness of our loving God and not on the difficult circumstances around me. My heart goes out to each of you with prayer requests. I will join the other ladies in lifting your needs in prayer.
    Blessings. Sue in Hawaii

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  57. "faith comes from hearing, hearing the WORD of God"...that's what happened to Rahab.

    After living a life in which perhaps she must have felt tired of being used and perhaps feeling that, men in particular, wanted her ONLY for what she could offer, all of a sudden, she heard the WORD of the Lord. The mighty Lord and his wonders!! How thrilling and fearful it must has been all at the same time. And yet, inspite of her fears, I wonder if there was a sense of hope? A sense of deliverance and salvation?...a chance for a change?!!

    She had plenty of time to think about this amazing God. I can imagine her talking to herself and saying things like: "that God can conquer nations and part seas! I wonder if this God would be big enough to forgive me and save me along with my family??

    Faith continually grew as time went on and at the appointed time - a divine appointment!! - she had enough faith and discernment to realized the spies were sent from the Lord. WOW!

    May God help us to be sensitive to His WORD and have spiritual eyes and discernment to understand the move of God!

    Thank God that He is no respector of person. He loves EVERYONE, inspite of the past!

    Myra

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  58. I read it!
    Another amazing woman. Wonder what her family was thinking of her and what she was doing before the Israelites invaded. Did they trust as she did?
    Emily, keep trusting in the Lord but do not stop asking questions and getting more expert opinions. You have to be a squeaky wheel in todays medical arena, but you are your sons advocate for his future and if answers don't give you peace try other specailist across the country. Never give up. I am praying for you and your son and husband.

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  59. I read it and then read Hebrews 10 & 11. I feel so refreshed after that! Have a wonderful weekend!

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  60. I read it! I am suprised at how much I look forward to the next reading, Bless you Rachel for bring about the study! You are in my prayers

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  61. I read it. I enjoyed reading about Rahab.

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  62. Just read it. What a courageous woman! Love her!

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  63. I read it.

    Rachel i pray that you will be a blessing to those you are ministering too this weekend and also that the Lord will bless you abundantly as you follow His will for your life.
    Blessings to everyone
    Sandra - England

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  64. I read it...

    Have a great weekend!


    Melissa in Louisiana

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  65. Did it...can't wait till Monday's discussion.

    Kristi - MO

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  66. Reading completed. Continous prayer for you and your engagement's.

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  67. I read it! :)

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  68. I read it! I have loved reading all your comments and I am learning so much! Thank you Racheal for this Bible study.
    Hebrews 11 lists Rahab as one of the great leaders of faith.Its amazing to me how often God uses those who we might think unsuitable. I also noticed that the red cord saved Rahab and her family just as the red blood of Jesus saves all who believe!
    Praying you all have a great weekend!
    Noreen Iowa

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  69. read it!

    --andrea in PA

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  70. I read it.
    Rachele - Indiana

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  71. I read it. will continue to keep you in my prayers.

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  72. sky4kat,

    I saw your comments to my blog "Plant Lady's Ponderings" on the post "The Witness of a Radish".

    Thank you so much for your visit!
    Come back again, anytime!

    Plant Lady

    P.S. Everyone is welcome!

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  73. Missed a few days; but, I did it. I caught up on Tamar, Potipher's Wife, and Rahab. So many women in the bible that just like us today. And people say they can't relate to the bible...a book written so long ago...duh!

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  74. I read it!!! Can't wait to discuss it..Rachel you are in my prayers have a Blessed time...Please ladies pray for me I am going though a tough time right now and I'm feeling like God has forgotten about me..(a trick of satan) I know God is always with me but my life right now is going down hill no matter what I do. But I do know that God is in charge and that he will come maybe not on my time but surely in his. Please ladies pray for me Call my name!!!(Nannette) Thanks

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  75. Hi everyone again! I have posted on my blog something for all of you that are feeling so stressed you need a special word. Emily please go onto it because of your son's issue. Plant Lady and Dana and especially Sweatpea for your ex-husband. Mrs. Proverbs, another nugget. Kim, Debrah for giving me encouragement. And please everyone else that needs another little word of love..go to my blog
    Thanks and God Bless
    Donna

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  76. Also Nannette..you need this too! Fullofgrace, your heart will be lighter again!
    Donna

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  77. I read it :)....Beth Ann

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  78. I read it!

    Mimi- "God not only knows where HE is taking you... He knows how to get you there!"

    NOTHING is too big for our God! Keep the faith!

    Praying for each of you!

    Somerset, KY

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  79. I have been doind it along, but this is the frist time saying I did it!

    Deb - Texas

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  80. I read it.

    Dana, I continue to pray for you and your son. Praise God that he hasn't had a drink all week. That is quite a big step but our God will get him through another week, then a month, then a year and so on.

    Rahab was a couragous woman. I'm sure people looked down at her for what her profession was. They probably thought that she was a nobody and would never amount to anything. But how wrong they were.
    God uses the most unlikely people to carry out his plans. In the new testiment, the so called religious people didn't like Jesus associating with no so desirable people.

    I am thankful that God uses the little guy, the wretched, the sinner to carry out his plan. He loves us regardless of who we are. We just have to confess our sins and accept him as our Lord and Savior. I wish I had known that as a teenager because I wouldn't have gone through so much. But I know all of that made me who I am today.

    I'm one of those nobody's that God used and I know he's still using me.

    Thanks ladies for your comments and Rachel I pray for you during your engagement. I pray that God directs your thoughts and words.

    Rena in Texas

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  81. Thank you all for your prayers. I'm growing sooo much and this ministry and bible study is a huge part of it. I've been making a constant effort each day to stay out of God's way and this study has truly given me additional incentive to do so.

    Stay focused on living a blessed life ladies....
    Love you... Carol - Missouri

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  82. God is so awesome!
    It is incredible that the creator of all the universe wants to have an intimate relationship with me, with you, with all of His children! He loves us so much and that can sound kind of trite but I don't think we will really have any idea how much He loves us until we get to heaven.
    Like any relationship, we get more out of it by investing more into it.
    I happen to be a voracious reader and if I don't have something to read while I am waiting for someone or something I get a little worried.
    I happened to be waiting in the car today for my friend and was caught with nothing to read (I didn't have my Bible so I couldn't even read about Rahab) I really got a little panicky!
    The Lord gently said, "You could talk to me while you wait."
    "Yes, indeed. I very well could."
    Really, I can not get much reading done in 5 minutes but I can sure pray for a lot!
    Imagine the Lord of the universe wants to talk to me... and to you.
    In Joy <3

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  83. I read it!

    What a powerful passage. I wonder if Rahab prayed before the spies showed up and said God if you are real, send someone to me.

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  84. hi rachael,

    i read the story of this woman and i will pray for you this weekend. you are very busy... too busy? i see you also did the prov.31 column today.

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  85. Nanette:
    The key thing I picked up on in your comment about ...God having forgotten you and a no matter what YOU DO your life continues down hill... If we have learned anything from the women we have been studying I think it is that when WE start DOING things to save the day--all is lost!
    Now is the time for you to seek the Lord with all your mind, heart and soul. Then WAIT on the Lord until you have clear direction from Him.
    I feel it is important to remind you to make sure what you are receiving is from the Lord and not satan masquerading as an angel of light.
    Also, I was just listening to a Bible teacher today saying that when things seem the worst in our lives is really when God is the most active--just think what it could be like without Him being involved!?! Just because we don't see the results does not mean things are not happening in the spirit realm that we don't even have any idea about!!
    You are on God's mind every minute of every day!!
    In Joy, <3 Gwendolyn

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  86. I read it! I need to do a little more research, but didn't Rahab eventually become part of the decendants of Christ?

    Praying for you Rachel! I hope you have an awesome weekend and let us all know how your eye is healing, your table of contents is coming together, and your weekend went.

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  87. Just finished reading about Rahab. I love it that God chose (and chooses) to use someone who was likely scorned by her community due to her profession. Like someone else mentioned, God is not a respecter of persons. He uses those of us who society may consider worthless. The lesson for me is that I need to not label others or think less of those who are different or shunned by our society.
    Rahab is listed in the lineage of Jesus in Matt. 1:5. She was the mother of Boaz. How cool is that?! God has always used women and continues to use us as long as we yield ourselves to His calling.
    I pray for all of you with heartaches and needs. Thank God that He is good all the time.
    Blessings,
    Terri in Columbus O-H-I-O

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  88. I've read it!

    Debby - North Dakota

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  89. I read it. Thank you for your faithfulness Rachel. You have such a busy life and you have made time for this. Blessings on your week end.

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  90. Emily R
    Your family is in my prayers. John 10:10 says the theif comes to steal kill and destroy, (whatever, joy, relationships, ...) don't let this be a distraction to you. Stay steady with God and his word.
    God Bless,
    Lynn

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  91. I read it!

    Through all of the readings I am reminded that these women were regular women...like us! We are as important to God as they were!
    Wouldnt it have been nice for them to be able to get online and bond with other women like we are?
    We are sooo blessed. All of us probably have some issues going on iin our lives...I thank those of you who are revealing themselves and situations to all of us...I believe you are receiving and extra portion of blessings because of it. How do people in the world do it without HIM and Christian people supporting them? I am saying extra prayers today for those people to find Jesus soon!
    Thanks to all of you...and Rachel....this is what the family of God is all about...it is the most important time that you spend...so dont feel guilty if something else goes undone today...God will honor the effort you made for Him and somone else today!
    I love you all!

    Julie from Ohio

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  92. I did it.

    Edmonton,Alberta

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  93. Emily, God can always be found when we seek Him with our whole heart. Dont give up because God's grace never fails. A special sprayer that your husband will know that God is waiting for him to invite the LORD into his heart.

    May God continue to bless your family.

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  94. I read it. May God bless you all this weekend.

    Laura - NH

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  95. I read it!

    Praying for ya!
    God Bless!

    Linda - NC

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  96. I read it. I enjoyed it and am encouraged by all of the comments. The prayer requests are encouraging me to pray more.Thank you all for being so open and so real.
    Marlene - VA

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  97. I read it.

    I've been following along from the beginning, and read most (if not all of the comments). I truly feel connected to you all! My heart and prayers go out to each and every one of you!

    Have a wonderfully blessed weekend.
    Til' Monday,

    Elizabeth
    Bowie, Maryland

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  98. gwendolyn:
    I too am like you. If I have to wait, I'd much rather make use of my time by reading or journaling or something. I try to never go anywhere without my bag that has my journal and book in the car so I can hopefully obtain it.

    I found that to be so precious that when you found yourself anxious with nothing to read, our Lord gently called you to talk with Him. I've been in those situations before thinking "oh what do I do to use my time" and the light bulb goes off and says "oh duh, pray and talk to the Father".

    I am a little confused regarding Rahab so I'm anxious to see what Rachel has to say and what others say when we open up the details of our conversation and understanding...I guess I'm at a loss as to why her actions were seen as so courageous...I guess because she put her life in danger by hiding the men but right now the full message hasn't totally sunk in. I guess because her story doesn't seem to have all the extra details like the last several women. All of the other women seem to have twists and turns in their stories and more details where as Rahab...the story seems to be in and out, begun and done. We shall see....

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  99. I read it.
    At first it seemed strange to me that someone like a harlot would be given such a task. I read the footnotes in my bible and it explained that a harlot (prostitute) was a respected position in this pagan society. They were often priestesses and considered honorable. I still look forward to Rachel's take on this story with all it's history - she certainly helps me understand these stories beyond what I ever have in the past. Thank you Rachel. (hug)
    I have always loved this story, but reading it this time gave me a new take on it. How many questions did Rahab consider. Rahab trusted Joshua's word or is it that she didn't feel that she had a choice - as surely she saw the hand of God on his life. How did she feel when this mighty shout came out of this man knowing that only she and her family were to be saved. A man of such standing at that moment actually knew her name and made her name known to all his army. What if the pursuers of Joshua found out what the scarlet cord meant. She was promised protection, but still, can you imagine her thoughts as she hid with her family in a small room only to be protected by this simple scarlet cord. What if one of Joshua's army missed the orders or didn't see the cord. What sounds were heard as this family waited for all this massive chaos to come to an end.
    Jo Beth

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  100. Okay wonderful women of God..I have a word for everyone of you!! Nannette, Dana, Kim, Sweatpea, Emily, Plant Lady,Fullofgrace92, Vicky, jn14god, Sharon (especially), rena, debrah, mrsproverbs, and please anyone I didn't say on this posting..This is for all of you that need to know what we are up against, and it's called "Faith is trusting God when you cannot see past the fog"..it's not just about faith either, it's about when the enemy started telling you that God is not alive..all of you having a hard time need to read it. I promise, with what I went through today, and may have lost my job, I know God is in control and I have peace. Please read and feel encouraged!

    God Bless
    Donna

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  101. ANOTHER WOMAN THAT GOD USED TO BRING ABOUT THIS WILL......

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  102. I read it...God’s Blessings to you and encouragement on your weekend endeavors, Rachel.

    Cari

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  103. I have done the reading.
    Rachel I wish you all the best for you event this weekend. Thank you for your dedication to this session.

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  104. Hi,I did it!
    Rahab is my favourite girl/women in the Bible.She showed heaps of courage,& she wanted the best for her family & would not settle for anything less.I love it how God looks outside the box.People we would think hopeless,God always sees something else.
    Enjoy your weekend Rachel

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  105. I did it

    i am praying for u mimi tat Gods will be done in ur life....
    In his time, he makes all things beautiful

    I am praying for u emily r tat your son will grow in stature

    Sweatpea..i pray tat God will restore ur family

    Nanette... You are not forgotten.. God knows ur name.

    Lastly Rachel .. may u be blessed even as u bless and water other lives.

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  106. I did it. What a woman of faith, as Sylvia commented! I wonder what Rahab must have gone through to so thoroughly reject her own people, culture, and religion or gods and know that the God of the Israelites is the true God as she stated in verse 11. She seemed to be totally set, totally decided that this was the God she could trust her life with and wanted to serve the rest of her life. Yet, as Jo Beth so vividly wrote--what all went through her mind as all that commotion and chaos was going on around them?

    What a challenge for me! As I think of all the wonderful stories of faith we have to read and learn from in the Bible--both positive and negative--I can say just as couragously as Rahab--this is THE ONE I am going to follow. He is the only One who deserves my complete trust.

    I guess I am getting ahead of our study and should wait to comment until Rachel has given us her post on the reading about Rahab, but I find it harder to be able to post any of my thoughts during the week. I take the time to read through the comments and take them to heart but often don't have the time to be able to make my own.

    I'd like to add a question here--why, do you think, were Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth the only women besides Mary, his own mother, mentioned in the lineage of Jesus in Matt. 2? They were all non-Israelite women. Was that the reason? or was it because of the faith they displayed in their individual situations and God honored that by having their names mentioned?

    I hope Rachel will enlighten us a bit on that!

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  107. I read it.

    Kathy from Richmond, TX

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  108. i did it

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  109. God never turns us away when we seek him with a sincere heart. Rahab had heard about God, and an opportunity presented itself for her to experience Him personally. Israel’s God was a deliverer and she needed hope out of her situation. Not only did God deliver her but her whole family was saved due to Rahab’s faith. God honored her faith by exalting her to a new station in life – an ancestor of Christ.

    What a testimony to any of us who may feel worthless. There are many who are looking for the good news of Jesus Christ. May those of us who have received it – forget not to live it.

    God is Sooooooo Awesome!

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  110. Good question Pauline. I'm not sure why but if notice Luke makes no mention of these women. But, I believe that the writer's account was inspired by the Holy Spirit.

    Rachel?

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  111. I've caught up and I did it!

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  112. Rachel: Can't wait to hear about your weekend! God is good!

    Read about Rahab. Just the fact that she climbed up on a roof impressed me! :) It's amazing how God, by His grace and mercy, uses us. He used Rahab in an amazing way to change the course of history. How very humbling. His love is amazing!

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  113. Emily R... I'm responding to you prayer request for your son's growth issue. My Pastor preached today about 'Desperate Household's' and I felt that word applied to you and many others.... The main point is found in Job 1:1-5 and 3:25... somewhere from vs 1-5 Job lost hope of his children and began to fear what MAY happen. In 3:25 Job said ( after losing everything)..'the thing he greatly feared happed'...and the word greatly meaning he meditated on what may happen to his children.

    Emily.. my prayer for you today is for you not to dwell, worry, or feel anxiety over how your child/husband/yourself may deal with it.. but that you will meditate on God's word of all the promises He has for you and your children.. and watch Him do ( once again!!) a miraculous work in your family's life

    Many Blessings.... Carol - Missouri

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  114. My dear friends,
    As I have read God's word and really pondered on each of these women. I have tried to put myself in their shoes. I wonder if they had any idea just how each one of their lives would touch so many women of the world over 2000 yrs later. What we have learned from each one seems to be the same message in differnt forms. WAIT UPON THE LORD!!! His timing is never wrong. Rahab was a bit different I think. She had to be terrified, but her trust and faith in God clearly showed me that no matter what, I/we need to keep our eyes focused on the Lord and as His word says: He will direct our paths.
    It has been an honor to pray for those who have ask for prayer. As many of us can relate to one or more of the prayer requests, my heart is touched by each one.
    My husband believes in God, but has not given his life to Him. I am encouraged by 1st Peter 3;1-6, so to those who ask for prayer about unsaved husbands I hope this will bring you comfort as it does me. It would be a blessing if you all would also pray for his salvation. We have been married for almost 34 yrs. God put him in my path when I was 15 and he was 19. We married when I turned 16.
    In Him
    Tommie :)

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  115. I read it! 4 comments:
    Rahab had the label 'harlot'from her past, but I'll bet she wasn't one anymore...not since knowing the Lord.
    Rahab had to trust those 2 spies to not forget her...Joseph was promised by men in prison that they would speak on his behalf and they didn't.
    Rahab knew the true God and was courageous to help those spies. She also thought about her family's future and wanted them to be safe,too...do we pray and care enough for our family's salvation? Great story!!

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  116. I read Rahab's amazing story ...

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  117. Just finished reading.

    Tara- New Mexico

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  118. I read it.

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  119. I did it. Rachel, I look forward to your praise report from this weekend. Jocelyn

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  120. I've read it. It is so amazing to see how God loves everyone. Like many people, including myself at one time or another, Rahab also may have thought that God had forgotten her until the two strangers showed up. This bible study is all new to me. I thank God and Rachel for it. I continue to pray and ask God to turn my husband around; to allow the Holy Spirit to enter his mind, body, and soul; and for him to accept the Lord as his personal savior. My son and I are attending church now (something I haven't really done since I was a teenager). It hurts my heart to see families worshipping together and not have my husband there with us. Please pray for us.

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  121. Rahab's story.....did it!

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  122. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  123. Read it this morning..Monday. Friday was an exciting day for our family...twin grandaughers born, healthy, precious, miracle babies.

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  124. Sherri,

    Congratulations! I know you will enjoy those precious little ones!

    Plant Lady

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  125. There was a footnote in my Bible that said that Rahab could have possibly been an innkeeper not a prostitue. Had you ever heard that before. Also, since the two spies told Rahab to keep everyone that she wanted to protect in her house and that they were not responsible for anyone who left her house, do you think that they were still in their house in the wall when it fell down? That's some serious faith in the God of Isreal.

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  126. Sherri,
    Congratulations, Grandchildren are so awesome. What a blessing.
    Lynn

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  127. Done! I love this story! :)

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  128. I read it Thank you again and i thank God for choosing you to do this study bacause i used to struggle to read the bible now i look forward to it everyday .God Bless You And Your Family.

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  129. I read it.

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  130. I read it!! Can't wait for your insight Rachel. I learn so much from you. Thank you for being God's instrument to educate me in my spiritual walk.

    "Em" - Wisconsins

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  131. I read it! Thanks, Rachel.

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  132. I did it... Stoughton MA

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  133. I did it!

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  134. I've read Rehab and am looking forward to everyone's feedback.

    <*////><

    Blessings,
    Karyl ~ Bonners Ferry, ID USA

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  135. I did it.
    Connie - Canada

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  136. I did it.
    Connie - Canada

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  137. Hi Sherri,congrats on your grand-daughters,that is so special,praise God,from justine in australia

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  138. I read it.
    Alpharetta, GA

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  139. I read it...

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