The Spies

Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two men as spies from the Acacia Grove, saying: "Go and scout the land, especially Jericho." So they left and came to the house of a woman, a prostitute named Rahab, and stayed there. Joshua 2:1

The word used for 'spies' is also the word used for footers or messengers. These were not green beret soldiers we now see used for such activities.

They went to the house of a prostitute. Unless God led them there why would they go there? Perhaps the house was like a tavern where they could go and listen, perhaps there was another reason.

Whatever the reason, thy found what they had come for. Rahab confesses how her city lived in fear of the tribe of Israel. The news came with danger as an opportunity for Rahab to gain brownie points, would it be with these strangers or her king, she chose the strangers. She knew that what they represented was more powerful than her king. She asked for favour and was granted protection. Then she hid them.

On return to Joshua the 'spies' gave their report. It confirmed what God had said to them. The land was in fear. This was an encouraging sign.

When God leads it is good to scout out the land, with boldness and not fear. In October 2013 I knew it was time to move into the next phase. I scouted out the land and found the next office abode. I took the troops to see and asked: "what do you think?" Straightaway I knew who had faith and who didn't. I didn't berate the troops or abandon the vision, I took the troops like little chicks under my wings and loved them, just as I am loved. I don't need to lead out of frustration but faith.

Joshua had chosen his spies well, they brought a good report and one which encouraged the troops to move on.

We have just had six months of severe challenge but are now through, still standing, and now more have faith. 

It is good to see the reward for you faith in God's ability to work in His people. I am learning an interesting lesson about leading the troops and how to have faith in God in them. It causes them to blossom and come into what is theirs. Amen! Christ in them, is the hope of glory. Amen!