Judge Deborah was a reluctant hero.
Deborah, also a prophetess, received instructions from God to relay to Barak. His mission was to lead a battle against their oppressors. When she shared this with Barak, he balked (as did Moses, Jonah, Gideon, and many others when God called them to a task).
Barak did not want to go alone and requested that Deborah accompany him. Deborah agreed, but predicted that if she did, she would be the one credited with the victory and not Barak.
Apparently emboldened by her presence, Barak then did as instructed and led the army to victory. There is no mention of Deborah actually doing anything to ensure victory, except merely going with Barak. Yet, she is indeed the one who received the accolades.
I’m not sure if Barak lacked confidence in himself or in God, but either way, he wavered and did not obey God without question. Still, God was able to accomplish his purpose, albeit through Deborah.
It is always easier to serve God with a friend, but sometimes what God asks for is a solo effort.
A lifelong student of the Bible, Peter DeHaan, PhD, wrote the 1,000-page website ABibleADay.com to encourage people to explore the Bible. His main blog and many books urge Christians to push past the status quo and reconsider how they practice their faith in every area of their lives.
