Who was the only woman to rule Israel?
The answer is found in today's reading. Deborah the prophetess and judge.
Deborah was a wise and capable woman who shines even brighter when compared with judges such as Samson, whom we will study tomorrow. Deborah initiated the plan to defeat Jabin's army, led by his commander, Sisera. In addition, she had to ""hold the hand,"" as it were, of Barak, the man she designated to lead the Israelite army into battle. Verses 6, 9 and 14 show that Deborah had no doubt that the Lord would give His people victory, but Barak himself was reluctant. The exchange between Deborah and Barak in verses 8-9 sounds like a conversation between two siblings in which the younger says something like, ""I'm not going into that dark room unless you go with me."" Deborah appears to have all the courage and godly confidence in the world, and Barak apparently senses that. Whatever emotions he was feeling, they did not include an excess of either courage or confidence!
Questions to Ponder/Discuss...
1. What can we learn about God from this story?
2. What can we learn about ourselves from this story?
3. Are you walking with courage that comes from God or are you paralyzed because you are too focused on the problem?
Ways to Pray...
Ask God to use you to encourage someone today who may be lacking faith to do what God is calling them to do. Pray that God would bless you with His confidence to do what He wants you to do today.
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