January 19, 2023
“I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to those who know Me; Behold, O Philistia and Tyre, with Ethiopia: ‘This one was born there.’” Psalm 87:4
Rahab, an individual prostitute, and Babylon, the corporate harlot, are mentioned together in a hymn! Those who truly know Me are not offended by these mentions, but are readily reminded of the hope offered by Jesus to the world. No matter what situation you were born into or find yourself in, Jesus has the power to mold you into a citizen of Zion (meaning “highest point”), the Hebrew name applied to God’s city, the Heavenly Jerusalem.
And of Zion it will be said, “This one and that one were born in her; And the Most High Himself shall establish her.” The LORD will record, when He registers the peoples: “This one was born there.” Selah v.5-6
Rahab was born again (John 3:3,7) and not only became one whose citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), but she is honored in the lineage of the Savior (Matthew 1:5). And we know that Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, finally bowed to the LORD (Daniel 4). Glory to God!
The foundation of God’s government is love, upon which His law is established. Notice that end-time Babylon the Great is dressed in the sanctuary colors of purple representing royalty and scarlet symbolizing sacrifice, but the color of loyalty and obedience, blue, is conspicuously absent (Revelation 17:4). Royalty is attained through a combination of sacrifice (that of Jesus) and obedience. Scarlet and blue makes purple. Beloved, if you belong to Him, you have royal status (see Revelation 1:6).
And you shall have the [blue] tassel, that you may look upon it and remember all the commandments of the LORD and do them, and that you may not follow the harlotry to which your own heart and your own eyes are inclined. Numbers 15:39
Our gracious Lord is always available to come to our aid. His grace is reliable for empowerment to be obedient to Him. His law serves as guard rails on the winding and precipitous road of life in a fallen world. We can immediately come to Him whenever we ‘collide with the railing’ for forgiveness and restoration.
Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. Hebrews 7:25
Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, To God our Savior Who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen Jude 1:24-25