Faith in Action: Lessons from Deborah

Israel had been suffering for years under an enemy army led by Sisera, the commander of

their soldiers, who ruled through fear and force. He had 900 iron chariots,

the strongest weapons of that time, and because of that advantage people were afraid to act

and leaders stayed quiet. Deborah, a trusted leader who listened to

God and helped guide the people, saw that fear was keeping everyone stuck.

God spoke to her and told her it was time to move, so she called Barak, the man responsible

for leading Israel’s army, and told him to step forward in faith.

Barak believed God but hesitated, saying he would only go if Deborah went with him,