Lessons from Deborah

For the next two weeks, we will be studying the character of Deborah. Her story is captured in Judges chapters 4 and 5, during a period when Israel was under the oppression of King Jabin, the Canaanite king and his army commander, Sisera. During this time, God, through Deborah, gave instructions to Israel to go to war against King Jabin. Under Deborah’s leadership, God gave Israel victory over their enemies and delivered them from oppression, granting them peace for about 40 years.

Deborah was a prophetess and a judge. She was also married to Lappidoth and was described as a mother in Israel. I believe she earned this title because of her contributions to the people of Israel and the role she played in providing leadership and guidance to them. As a judge, she settled disputes among the people, and as a prophetess, she communicated the mind of God to them.

Here are a few lessons we can learn from Deborah.

1. She Was a Wife, a Judge, and a Prophetess

Deborah served in three capacities, a wife, a judge, and a prophetess. I strongly believe the different roles she played gave her a broader and richer perspective on life, which may have contributed to her ability to judge the people and provide wise counsel. 

The Bible also acknowledges that Deborah was a married woman. I believe the mention of her husband in the account is worth noting because it reminds us that she had a family role while also serving in the other capacities God had called her into. 

As women, no matter where we are called to serve and operate, whether in politics, education, ministry, or other fields, we should be mindful of our responsibilities at home. Our work and service in these areas should not cause us to neglect our roles as wives. The book of Proverbs reminds us that a wise woman builds her house, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands (Proverbs 14:1).

2. She Was a Woman Whose Presence Inspired Confidence

When Deborah relayed God’s instructions to Barak to go and fight against Sisera, Barak told her that he would not go unless she accompanied him. Deborah agreed to go with him, and they won the victory.

Deborah lived in a male-dominated society, yet she was the woman God chose to lead Israel during that period. Her leadership was so significant that Barak wanted her presence as they went into battle. This speaks to the confidence and assurance that her presence inspired because as the leader of the land, she became the spiritual covering over the people. She was not merely a leader who gave instructions from a distance; she was willing to accompany Barak into battle. 

Her presence was also accompanied by words of encouragement. When the time came to pursue the enemy, Deborah urged Barak to rise and act, reminding him that the Lord had gone ahead of him. And God gave them victory that day.

This teaches us that leadership is not just about giving instructions. Sometimes, it means standing with others, encouraging them, and helping them move forward when they need it most. 

3. She Was Comfortable Celebrating Another Woman

In Judges chapter 5, Deborah sang praises to the Lord for the victory over Sisera. In her song, she also acknowledged Jael for her courage in killing Sisera.

This character trait is worth noting: the ability to celebrate others without jealousy or envy. Deborah was a leader, a prophetess, and a mother in Israel. Yet, she did not allow her position to prevent her from recognizing and acknowledging Jael’s contribution. She gave honor where honor was due, even when it meant celebrating another woman.

Oftentimes, women may struggle to celebrate one another, especially when the other woman is younger or has a lower status. However, Deborah’s character teaches us the importance of humility and the willingness to recognize the contributions of others. We should never allow our positions, achievements, or status to prevent us from celebrating someone else.

This character trait contrasts with that of King Saul, who became jealous of David when David was celebrated for his victory over Goliath. His jealousy eventually grew into hatred, leading him to pursue David and seek his life. Despite Saul’s efforts, he could not overcome David because the Lord was with him.

Let us learn from Deborah to celebrate others when they deserve recognition. Someone else’s achievements do not diminish our own, and acknowledging another person’s contribution does not make us any less significant.

Conclusion

The story of Deborah teaches us that God can choose and use anyone for His assignment, whether a man or a woman. What He needs is a willing vessel, and He is able to equip that person for the task. As the saying goes, God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

Deborah’s life is an example of courage, wisdom, leadership, and humility. She was willing to serve God, stand with others, and celebrate their contributions. These are qualities we can all learn from and seek to emulate.