Meet: Deborah
For the month of May we will discover some of the many lessons that can be learned from studying the life of Deborah.
Overview – Spiritual Leadership
Deborah was a wife and the only woman called by God to serve as a judge over Israel. She could see the big picture that often escapes those directly involved which made her a good mediator, advisor, planner and delegator. But most importantly she had a remarkable relationship with God.
She did not allow cultural expectations to get in the way of God’s calling for her and her story shows how God can accomplish great things through people who are willing to be led by Him.
When Deborah discussed the threat to Israel with Barak who should have taken leadership he said, “I won’t go unless you go with me.” She didn’t want the job of a military leader but it was hers to do because no man would/could do it. Her confidence in God helped her accept responsibilities that others gave her even though she was not trained for them.
She did what she knew was right in God’s eyes, confident that the Lord would honor her actions. Deborah inspired others to action and God gained the victory.
Lessons from her life
- Our need to be available both to God and to others.
- God can choose to use us in ways that are unexpected.
- We should spend our efforts on what we can do rather than on worrying about what we can’t do.
Life Application
You are in a spiritual place of leadership as a woman, a wife, a mother or worker. Every area of your life is a place of influence where you can be available for God to work in and through you.
Remember
God can choose anyone to lead His people young or old, man or woman. You are qualified and equipped to do what God has called you to do.