Calendar

DEBORAH–BARAK–JAEL (II)
SATURDAY, JANUARY 14
Judges 4:6-10

1 Corinthians 11:1-16

 

“…and lean not unto

thine own understanding.”

 

DEBORAH–BARAK–JAEL (II)
 
“And Deborah, a prophetess…she judged Israel at that time” (Judg 4:4). Did Deborah in her discharge of her call to God usurp authority and despise the order set by God? No! She did not. As was noted earlier, the time of the judges was a time of spiritual declension and rebellion. This was seen in the idolatry and evil that characterised that time and in the general weakness of the character of the people of that time.
 
“And she dwelt under the palm tree of Deborah…” (Judg 4:5). The people went to her for judgment, but she did not sit at the gate, but under a palm tree. In the Old Testament times, the place set for judgment where the elders and leaders sat was at the gate, and this was practised even during the period of the judges. Boaz in Ruth 4:1ff went to the gate to settle the issue of the redeeming of Elimelech’s property and Ruth. It was at the gate of the city that disputes were brought (Deut 25:7), judgments and punishments meted out (Deut 17:1-5; 22:15, 19, 23-24); and also at the gate of the city of refuge a matter was heard and determined by the elders of the city (Josh 20:4).
 
“And Barak said unto her, If thou wilt go with me, then I will go…” (Judg 4:8). The reluctance of men to take the lead is seen in Barak’s reply. Her message to him was clear, “Hath not the Lord God of Israel commanded?” (Judg 4:6). God’s promise too was clear, “And I will draw unto thee… and I will deliver him into thine hand” (Judg 4:7). Her reputation and faithfulness to God was sure: the people went to her for judgment, and Barak himself requested that she accompany him to war. When those who would serve God do not rise to serve, God in His Sovereignty raises up those who would serve in their place.
 
Deborah is neither an example of women taking up leadership and pastoral roles, nor an example of rebellion against God’s order. Rather, by her obedience, faithfulness, and submission to God in dark times, her example shows God’s sovereignty over man even in dark times.
 
THOUGHT: “Ever to the Saviour cling, trust in Him and none beside.”

PRAYER: (Use Psalm 86:11.)

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