S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Deborah was one of the judges of Israel during a time of oppression. She is called a prophetess and the wife of Lappidoth. The Lord spoke through her as she held court under a tree called "the Palm...

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July 01 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What should we learn from the life of Deborah?

The life of Deborah, a prophetess, judge, and leader in the Bible, teaches us to exercise our God-given callings confidently, lead with courage, and empower others. She demonstrates that true leadership involves serving with integrity, relying on God's strength rather than our own, and collaborating with others to fulfil a purpose.

Lessons from Deborah's life:

Embrace Your Calling: As a woman leading Israel in a patriarchal society, Deborah shows that God uses whoever is willing to obey and that calling is based on divine appointment rather than cultural norms.

Courage is Contagious: Deborah was a "mother in Israel" who provided bold, unwavering leadership, inspiring timid leaders (like Barak) to take action against oppression.

Lead with Integrity and Wisdom: She didn't abuse her power; instead, she acted as a wise mediator, delivering God's truth, leading to a generation of peace.

Empower Others: She did not take away Barak's responsibility to lead the army; instead, she enabled and supported him in his duty.

Give God the Glory: After victory, Deborah (along with Barak) sang a song of praise (Judges 5) that recognised God as the true source of their victory.

Deborah's life provides a model for blending unwavering faith with practical action and courageous leadership.

Conclusion

Who was Deborah? She was a prophetess whom Israel's God, Jehovah, used to reveal his will on matters affecting his people. God also used her to help settle problems among the Israelites.—Judges 4:4, 5.

What did she do? The prophetess Deborah courageously supported God's worshippers. At his direction, she summoned Barak to lead an Israelite army against their Canaanite oppressors. (Judges 4:6, 7) When Barak asked Deborah to go with him, she did not give in to fear but willingly complied with his request.—Judges 4:8, 9.

What can we learn from Deborah? Deborah was self-sacrificing and courageous. She encouraged others to do the right thing in God's eyes. When they did so, she generously gave them credit for their efforts.

If we imitate the faith of Deborah, boldly taking our stand for Jehovah and encouraging others to do the same, God will bless us with victories​—and lasting peace.

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