Article Images Copyright 2023 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. WebWhat Does the Story of Deborah Teach Us? One of the most striking and helpful illustrations of Jesus humanity was His prayer life. Equipping Christian Women to Abide in God's Word. We have victory now and for eternity only because of the victory Christ won for us. And when God calls you to His purpose, Hell give you the unction to go forth. The next 7 lessons give a brief look at all the Bible Lands. (Exodus 18). Under his courageous leadership Israels army killed about 10,000 Moabites. She did not need to have her trust in God confirmed by the responses of others. Every day, Deborah could be found seated under the Palm Trees of Deborah determining causes and controversies while judging the people according to the laws of God. So God gave them over to Jabin, King of Canaan, who harshly oppressed them for twenty years. The lessons that every single Christian child between 4-12 needs to be taught. Deborah was one of the judges of Israel during a time of oppression. It is seen in Judges 4 and 5 that Deborah was not only a leader but also an encourager. When the judge was a godly influence, he would lead Israel to repentance and victory over their enemies. The heroes recorded were simply ordinary people who God raised up in their generation. When he failed to confess his sin to God, his bones grew old and he groaned all the day long (verse 3). God is for each and every one of us. Deborahs final legacy reads, So the land rested for forty years (Judges 5:31). Ezekiel 1:1, NIV, We often need fresh starts after enduring bitter disappointments. She was the only female Judge in the Bible. This poetry celebratesthe Hebrews victory over the Canaanites and Siseras army. The rest of the lessons (9-52) correlate the Bible history and geography together. If your beliefs, and therefore your actions, have become divided, gather them back together as you commit to God and His Word. This reflects, I think, one of the divine realities of Gods design for men and women: men are to give their lives in the defense of women, not the other way round. Christianity.com is a member of the Salem Web Network of sites including: Copyright 2023, Christianity.com. The children of Therefore, if we are to experience victory in this life, it will come only as we depend on Him. 4. If youre not a history buff, hang with me because this is where things get good. Are you living in a way that you can say like Paul, I urge you, imitate me (1 Corinthians 4:16)? There are two (broad) hermeneutic teams playing on the exegetical field here. But Gods Word cannot be bound. There are many things we can also do to fight our battles well. The captain of the hosts is Jesus and He is the One who will give you His courage to lead, because when leaders lead, others will follow. Have an intimate relationship with God. We dont just talk to Him, we need to stop and take time to listen to what God has to say to us too. It was like his soul was being evaporated by the heat of his own guilt and shame. Others, however, concluded that his response in Judges 4:8 pointed to his discomfort in taking orders from a woman, despite the esteem she is held in. She heard from God and knew what He was asking of her and then she arose and did it. What did she do? Temptation. Instead, He puts within you an irresistible desire to do those plans Hes purposed for you. To do otherwise defies the clear command of Gods Word. Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, and He took the same means of escape that is available to usobedience to God's Word (Matthew 4:111; Hebrews 5:8). Rather it was Jael, the wife of a clan leader, who would avenge the Israelites by driving a tent peg through Siseras head with a mallet when he asked for water and respite. Arise, Barak! When leaders lead, others will follow. As we read the Bible and immerse ourselves in Gods truth and character, our lives are changedwe become more like Him. If pride expands ones importance, does humility deflate ones importance? Thats the way He cares for us tooevery day, all year long, always. Even though Sisera had a formidable army that featured 900 chariots made of iron, she delivered Gods message to Barak with confidence: Has not the Lord, the God of Israel, commanded you? (Judges 4:6). God can use whoever He pleases, regardless of gender. When leaders lead, others will follow. Hello Jesus! Privacy Policy, Then God blessed them, and God said to them, Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth. E. M. Bounds, All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Never underestimate the power and promises of God. It was not uncommon in the Old Testament for the word of the Lord to come to Gods prophets again and again. In this case, Israel was paralyzed by fear of Sisera, the commander of Jabins army who boasted 900 iron chariots. W. A. Criswell, Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and preach to it the message that I tell you. On the other end of the theological spectrum, egalitarians often point to Deborah as proof-positive that all leadership roles are open to women, and that any other stance is anti-woman. WebFacts about Deborah in the Bible. In his vision of the future, the apostle John saw that new heaven and a new earth, our new domain being pictured as the New Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God (Revelation 21:1-2). Deborah, upon receiving instructions from God, called Barak, an Israelite warrior, to bring 10,000 troops up Mount Tabor to attack Sisera, Jabins commander of troops. According to the Book of Judges, Deborah was a prophetess and the only female judge mentioned in the Bible. Titus 2:7. Joshua had the confidence and courage to lead Gods people into the Promised Land because He believed in Gods promise and presence. On Sunday (July 1st) I preached a message from Judges 4-5 on Gods rescue of the Israelites from oppression under Jabin, king of Canaan, and his attack dog Sisera. Judgement 8. Who Was Deborah in the Bible and Why Was She So Important. I love that statement, dont you? Confession and repentance reveal the access to restoration. Goodbye hardship and heaviness. Many of the judges were also thought of as prophets who articulated "a word from the Lord.". He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed (Deuteronomy 31:8). Hebrews 11 recognizes Gods heroes of the faith, which incidentally includes Barak. A lesser-known biblical icon of courage and spiritual strength, Deborahs impressive biography spans roles including judge, prophetess, songwriter, and even warrior. If our God is for us then who can be against us (Romans 8:31)? Think of every promise as a precious stone. Richard Sibbes, DavidJeremiah.blog is part of the broadcast ministry of David Jeremiah. Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for you if you belong to Him (John 14:1-4). For starters, her faith was solid. She was asked by God to lead the Israelites back to the Lord. As she accomplished her everyday task as a judge, God called Deborah to increased opportunity to lead others to wake up and serve The Lord. Be Obedient The Apostle Paul said: You became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit so that you became examples to allwho believe (1 Thessalonians 1:6-7). To think less of Gods gift would be to devalue it; to think realistically about it allows one to serve humbly. We get to know Him by spending time with Him, reading His Word, meditating on scripture, worship, praise, and prayer. Deborah has an impressive resume of judge, warrior, poet, and prophet as well as singer and songwriter. WebFind many great new & used options and get the best deals for The Women of the Bible Speak Workbook: The Wisdom of 16 Women and Their Lessons at the best online prices at eBay! Perhaps you are afraid. If someone compliments you on a job well done, do you refuse to take credit or receive their compliment? One group generally complementarian, or some variation there of - says that Deborahs role here is so clearly in defiance of Gods defined roles for men and women that it must be a consequence of the fact that there were no qualified men, for surely there could be no other reason that God would allow this arrangement. 3. They have four grown children and 10 grandchildren. Meaning of Deborahs Name. Bees are a lowly insect, which is a reminder to Gods children to be humble. Therefore we need to put our trust in Him and the promises He has for us. 1 Clearly one of the Bibles most outstanding figures, she served ancient Israel as a prophet, 2 judge, military leader, songwriter, and minstrel (Judges 45). Maintain a healthy balance between marriage and ministry. Imagine, the Maker of heaven and earth knew you before creation, and He has things He wants to do through you that will awaken sinners to their need for a Savior, lead others to wholehearted devotion to Jesus, and bring glory to Christ as you live, as blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life (Philippians 2:15-16). Resourceful 11. Maybe you just dont know how he is calling you. Daily Bible Reading Lessons in your inbox. . A person of integrity obeys the whole counsel of God every day, in every circumstance. When Gods mandates go unfulfilled on earth, Gods glory is diminished. Judges sought guidance from the Lord by praying and meditating before proclaiming their ruling on a matter. But when the Spirit gives you the zeal to lead others to follow Christ, He promises to be with you and to do through you more than you can imagine for His Kingdom and His glory. the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided (Judges 4:5 NASB). She was a woman we can all be inspired by and learn from. This fulfilled Deborahs prophecy to Barak which stated that because of his faltering courage there will be no glory for youfor the Lord will sell Sisera into the hand of a woman (Judges 4:9). Such images are in stark contrast to the pristine beauty and glory of Eden as presented in Genesis. Scripture never conceives of a woman as a pastor or priest. The story of Deborah in the Bible is an exceptional tale of bravery upon hearing Gods call. God used these men in spite of their moral failings. Thomas Watson, Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Follow Abrahams example as a faithful father by deepening your friendship with God. Well see that even in the ancient world of the Bible, there were women honored for their gifts and talents and who had roles of power and influence in Gods kingdom. But how about a book titledThe Righteous Father? Although some theologians think that when shes called a mother in Israel (Judges 5:7) its describing her as a godly matriarch. Deborah is the only female judge mentioned in the Bible. Deborah, and her story, can teach us so much, but there are three lessons we can all learn from: If God is telling you to do something or go somewhere, despite your fears, listen to His call. Every few lessons, there is a section of review questions. She is the author of Christian based Cognitive Behavioural therapy, a Speaker and a Christian Life Coach. Judge and warrior Deborah went off to battle with Barak, and, as foretold in prophecy, Sisera fell at the hands of a woman but not Deborah. Take captive your captives, son of Abinoam. This chapter in Scripture, often referred to as The Song of Deborah, is believed to be written as early as the 12th century BC and is considered by many biblical scholars as one of the earliest examples of Hebrew poetry. Strong (Judges 5:21) The torrent of Kishon swept them away, the ancient torrent, the torrent Kishon. Why do thehoofbeats of his chariots delay?. We can recognize what God has done and is doing for us, in the world, and in our lives. Deborah was chosen by God to serve as the Mother of Israel and lead His people to victory. Is there something God is asking you to do that you have been putting off? When we find a man meditating on the words of God, my friends, that man is full of boldness and is successful. Sisera was the commander of the Canaanite army. Deborah could hear from God the message she delivered to Barak to raise an 3. You dont have to go to heathen lands today to find false gods. Lessons include: Sarah Hagar Rachel Leah Tamar Ruth Deborah Jael Hannah Miriam Esther Rahab Mary Martha Mary, Mother of Jesus Mary Magdalene Some people wonder about the value of the Old Testament in a Christian's life. We have a purpose for being hereto refresh the memory of others regarding the things of the Lord. The god of this world, Satan, is blinding the eyes of people. We have the promises of God to help us in difficult days, and we have the Holy Spirit within us. As a prophet, Judge Deborah was said to hear God's voice and share Gods Word with others. Throughout scripture and history, God has placed women into positions of leadership and used their intellect, force of will, and uniquely feminine traits to achieve His perfect will. This post contains affiliate links. Visualize your daily Bible study time like a miser running his hands through a chest of gold. One of Deborahs judgments was to instruct Barak to summon 10,000 men and attack Jabins army. I can only imagine how many disputes this wise and godly woman must have resolved. If youve not read the story of Barak and Deborah youre really missing out. Let thy hope of heaven master thy fear of death. With all of the turmoil in the world these days, we can relate to Deborah as a role model who lived in troubled times. (If you are needing help in arising and getting started then check out, Move Forward in Faith When Frozen By Fear, 6 Inspiring Bible Verses About New Beginnings. As our lives center on God, giving priority to hearing His voice and reading His Word, we become bolder in sharing our faith. Which is how she helps people to recognise & overcome limiting beliefs & negative mindsets and help them to discover and step into their God given purpose. Jesus faced this dilemma when He healed a paralytic man. Its one thing to say, I forgive you, but its another to act like all the effects of an offense are completely erased. Deborah is the only female judge mentioned in the Bible. In Judges 4:4 we learn three things about Deborah. The Book of Matthew: Life of Jesus Christ is a Daily Bible Reading Study by Deborah H. Bateman, which takes you through the book of Matthew. God is far more willing to save sinners than sinners are to be saved. Judges 4:10 shows that the Israelites came alongside and followed her and Barak to go to Kedesh, in fact, there were ten thousand men that followed them! It is in the book of Genesis and it explains the first days of creation and how God created the universe. I will strengthen you, Yes I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10). In Romans 12:3 Paul exhorts the believers not to think of themselves pridefully but rather to think of themselves soberlythat is, realistically or accurately. 2 Peter 3:9. The same God who inspired Deborah, is calling you to arise and do His will. Make sure Christ is at the center of your life and that your love for Him eclipses everything else! We can imagine a child writing an appreciative and sentimental memoir about her perfect father, understanding that perfect was not intended to be taken literally. Colossians 3:1 tells us to seek those things which are above, where Christ is. In verse 5 were told to put to death the passions that come from below"fornication, uncleanness, passion, and evil desire. Then the Lord added the sin of greed or covetousness to the list, calling it idolatry. Because of her gender heres a politically powerful woman in the middle of a book mostly characterized by the activity of men! She was asked by God to lead the Israelites back to the Lord. Moody, whose ministry continues long after his death. When we think life has collapsed around us, the God of glory appears above us. Moody was an ordinary man whose zeal was awakened when he heard the British revivalist Henry Varley say, The world has yet to see what God can do with a man fully consecrated to him.. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is fullgrown, brings forth death (James 1:1315). It was read from the story that Deborah was a prophet of God. We meet Deborah and Jael in Judges 4 and 5. Hear, you kings; listen, you dignitaries! Perhaps you are too busy with other things. [The Lord] loves, and cares, and sympathizes, and understands, and seeks, and saves, and forgives, and helps, and encourages, and walks by our side taking care of us in life when we cant take care of ourselves. We could have stayed in Texas where we were comfortable, and we would have continued ministering in our church. But thankfully, Scripture gives us illustrations: Like us, Jesus suffered, experienced hunger, required sleep, ate food, and had limits on His knowledge (Mark 13:32). And when he believed God, [God] accounted it to [Abraham] for righteousness (Genesis 15:6). of Deborahs prophecy continued, And I [God] will deliver him into your hand (Judges 4:7). Deborah was the wife of Lappidoth and possibly a mother. Villagers in Israel would not fight; they held back until I, Deborah, arose, until I arose, a mother in Israel (Judges 5:7). I can still remember the impact this realization had upon me as a young woman when I studied Judges with a group of women. The guy had faith to believe that God spoke to him through Deborah. January 12, 2022. Thats just when God appeared to him as he was among the exiles by the Kebar River. Living in right standing with God? In Deuteronomy, her army was referred to as a swarm of bees., There are some characteristics of Deborah that we also see in that of, the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided (Judges 4:5 NASB), Knowledgeable (Judges 4:9) She said, I will certainly go with you; however, the fame shall not be yours on the journey that you are about to take,for the, Director (Judges 4:14) Then Deborah said to Barak, Arise! In periods of modern droughts, aerial photographs document the receding water levels in reservoirs around the stateshorelines growing wider and drier as water levels fall. This church has been without a leader for two years. 1. For this is the day on which the. Prayerful (Judges 5:28) Out of the window she looked and wailed, the mother of Sisera through the lattice,Why does his chariot delay in coming? With this also came respect; Barak was keen for Deborah to go with him, even if it meant the honor would be hers and not his (4:8-9). A prophetess named Deborah judged or made rulings for the people of Israel under a palm tree during that time. Deborah is a fairly controversial figure in evangelicalism. Many biblical scholars believe that Deborah was a wife, as well. Barak, who should have been a mighty warrior ready for battle, basically told Deborah, Yeah girl, Im not going into battle unless you come with me.. Goodbye trials and troubles. What needs to be heard as well is a joyful embracing of what the Bible celebrates as a strong woman. Its up to us to know what these are and trust that He will deliver in these promises. Scripture has plenty of room for female leaders in the public sphere. God's Word contains the answer to resisting temptation before it's too late. Comprehensive Bible Study Lessons has been written to encourage Bible reading. She arose to her calling. A great misconception carried by many Christians has to do with the location of heaven. You can listen to it here. Righteous doesnt mean sinless, of course. Intelligence 4. She was a prophet and judge. (Much ink has been spilled on this subject. Although some theologians think that when shes called a mother in Israel ( Judges 5:7) its describing her as a godly matriarch. For starters, her faith was solid. Theyre building a palace for me over there. Compassionate 10. Wake up, wake up, break out in song! We get to know Him by spending time with Him, reading His Word, meditating on scripture,worship, praise, and prayer. There are some characteristics of Deborah that we also see in that of bees. Jonah repented and called on the Lord and was delivered. 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