Calendar

DEBORAH–BARAK–JAEL (I)
FRIDAY, JANUARY 13
Judges 4:1-5

Joshua 11:1-11

 

“Trust in the LORD

with all thine heart…”

 

DEBORAH–BARAK–JAEL (I)
 
The Israelites found themselves enslaved again, this time being brought under oppression by a familiar foe. Both the names Jabin and Hazor are mentioned in the book of Joshua (Josh 11:1-11). What the Israelites had subdued by the grace of God under the godly leadership of Joshua and the elders, rose again and now oppressed them greatly. They now turned to God for help, and He who had enabled the fathers to defeat the foe would again help them get the victory.
 
“And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth…” (Judg 4:4). This verse introduces Deborah. She is introduced as a prophetess and as a wife. In this, we see the sovereignty of God. God decides whom He chooses and how He uses them. At a time of national declension, when spiritual apathy reigned, and idolatry and rebellion against God was rampant, God chose Deborah to speak for Him. At the time of Eli in 1 Samuel 3:1-9 when the Word of God was rare, God revealed Himself to the child Samuel. This does not mean children have a part in pastoral ministry. Likewise, Deborah’s story does not mean that women have a part in pastoral ministry. God does not choose against His Word, and as He has plainly put the qualifications of those who would hold pastoral offices, we should place hands only on those who qualify.
 
Deborah is also identified as wife of Lapidoth. Her service to God does not diminish or negate her God-given role and duty. God may give and has given gifts to men, but with the gifts, the same God has also given roles and duties. One who is faithful in the one cannot and ought not to be negligent in the other. Israel would come to Deborah for a Word from the LORD, but she who would tell others of the LORD’s way and will, must herself be obedient to the same will and diligent in performing what God required of her.
 
THOUGHT: “Ever to the Saviour cling, trust in Him and none beside.”

PRAYER: (Use Psalm 86:11.)

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