Deborah lived in a time of unrest in Israel. As a judge over the land, she knew hard times. Our account begins with Deborah, a wife and a mother, delivering an important message from the Lord. Will Barak march against their enemy Sisera, even though he has chariots and many troops? Barak knows he is outnumbered! Yet, wise Deborah assures him that the Lord would deliver Sisera into his hand.
Speak the Hard Truths
Deborah was a woman of action not just words. When Barak insisted, she came with him, but not without letting him know the greatest honor would go to a woman. Not surprisingly, wise Deborah spoke the hard truths and then acted on them.
Deborah was a woman of action not just words
Just before the battle the tension had to be high. Remember, Barak’s army was dwarfed in comparison, until God’s help arrived! Most importantly, wise Deborah encouraged him, “Arise! For this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hands; behold, the Lord has gone out before you.” Judges 4:14. She knew what Barak needed, and away he went to follow the Lord’s leading. Just think how your wise encouraging words can make all the difference in times of severe conflict.
Praise & Bless the Lord
What a battle, God is intervening from heaven, using the stars and the Kishon river to sweep away those 900 iron chariots. Just as prophesied, the woman Jael kills Sisera. Their enemies are defeated, Israel is free. Now wise Deborah takes time to praise & bless the Lord! She sings of God’s actions using nature’s power to defeat their enemies. In conclusion, this song of praise closes with encouragement to all who love the Lord, “But let those who love Him be like the rising of the sun in its might.”
As a woman, will you be wise like Deborah? Or will fear and the turmoil of your times overpower you?