In the same way, was not even Rehab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did 
when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?
(James 2:25 NIV)

We so easily put a person “in” or “out” of God’s grace based on what we see them doing 
or how we view their behavior. In our minds, the line is very clean, and we think that 
God’s kingdom is reserved only for those who live better. Or we at least think it should 
be granted only to those who live up to our standards. But are we sure we are right?
In the case of Rehab, a woman who gave her body to a different man nightly, and who 
lived a life of public and private humiliation, we would never think God might consider 
her to be an example for us all. But she is. In the book of James, she is honored for her 
faith and courage in hiding God’s warriors.

Such a thought—that people of deep brokenness not only participate in kingdom ventures 
but also capture God’s favor—is a mindblower for sure. Maybe it should blow our hearts 
apart too.

I wonder if we spend too much time judging, writing off, or condemning people who 
don’t live as “clean” as we think we do. I wonder if we’re too harsh with our own friends, 
our children, or our spouses when they live out their brokenness. 
If the kingdom is anything, it is all around us; it includes people of all types, sins, 
behavioral disorientations, and levels of maturity. God in His great grace overlooks 
some small sins like prostitution and highlights Rehab’s faith. At least, may we cast off 
all judgment and leave the wheat and tares to God. At best, may we thank God that He 
includes us in His kingdom and work with Him in His grace-filled redemptive plan.