Dark Horses: Overlooked Heroes - Day 30

Day 30 - Friday, August 2
Read Matthew 1:1-6; Hebrews 11:31 & James 2:14-26

Highlight
Rahab's legacy is significant in the Biblical narrative. She is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1, showing her inclusion in the lineage of the Messiah. In Hebrews 11, she is commended for her faith, and in James 2, she is highlighted as an example of faith in action. Rahab's story is a testament to God's grace and the transformative power of faith. Despite her past, she becomes an integral part of God's redemptive plan that leaves a ripple effect throughout history, changing the world in ways she surely could never have imagined. Rahab is undoubtedly a Dark Horse: a woman, a pagan, and a prostitute. We don’t know all of her story, but it’s clear from God’s choice to include her in the lineage of Jesus and hold her up as an example of heroic faith that God was honored in the life of Rahab. Her story should encourage all of us that God loves to redeem. No matter our history, position or circumstances, with faith there is nothing that holds us back from the love of God or the opportunity to be used by Him to make a difference in His Kingdom.

Reflection & Prayer

For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method.  It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.  We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading.  It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal.  But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.

S.O.A.P. Method

Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?

Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?

Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?

Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).