Single Sister, You MatterSýnishorn

Rahab

The few times we do focus on the single women in the church, it is about the women who are waiting faithfully and earnestly. The sentiment usually is that God will reward them for their purity and faithfulness. I don’t disagree with this, and I believe God in His perfect wisdom will honour and reward every one of these sisters who honour the Lord.

But what about those who have squandered their sexual inheritance? Who has loved and been unloved again and again and again? Are they any less pure, therefore, any less deserving of good gifts, such as marriage or to be used by God in Kingdom work?

Absolutely not! Rahab’s story of bravery and, ultimately, victory echoes a truth that exclaims that our righteousness does not come from what we have or haven’t done; it is purely based on the perfect sacrifice of Christ, and we walk in freedom because of that and that alone.

God can and will use you in your singleness even if you have a broken past (or present!). There is no indication that Rahab had stopped being a prostitute before God stirred her heart and used her. God can save you from any mess and use you as you are.

Rahab may have had a complicated past, but God stirred courage in her, and she went on to have a fruitful future. We know that she ultimately did get married and became the mother of Boaz, who is part of the lineage of Jesus. Yes! THE Jesus. Our beautiful Lord and Savior. Talk about being used by God!

Just like our single sisters Shiphrah and Puah, Rahab had no idea that this was how her story would end when she protected the spies. Her heart was purely focused on doing what was right in the eyes of the Lord. The rest was added to her.

The story of Rahab teaches us that our righteousness is purely because of the death and resurrection of Christ, which happened because God loves us so dearly. Also, your single season, whether simple or complicated, does not disqualify you from having a fruitful future.

If you are wrestling with sin and shame from your past or even from present situations, I invite you to fall into the arms of a loving friend and Saviour, Jesus. He is not put off by your story. He is not wagging a finger at you, and He certainly has not disqualified you. Take heart, my dear sister, come towards Him and let Him dress you with Love and Peace as you walk away from the things that hold your joy captive and into a fruitful future.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, you know the behaviours, thoughts, and ways which lead me away from you. Some I have managed to resist, but others, Lord, remain a pain in my side. Forgive me, Lord, and walk with me, hand in hand, as I grow to truly understand your love and grace for me. Teach me the unforced rhythms. Redeem my mind, my body, my words, my time, and my actions, Lord. But most importantly, make within me a new heart so I may serve you freely and partner with you to bring Kingdom and beauty to earth. I marvel at your mercy, and I am grateful for your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.