Rebellion: A Study in JudgesSampel

What does it say?

Following their defeat of the armies of Sisera, Deborah and Barak sang a song to commemorate their victory, give glory to God, and call out those who did not fight.

What does it mean?

Amidst the several cycles of disobedience, slavery, cries of repentance, deliverance, and peace, Deborah and Barak suddenly break into song. This military anthem contains further details of Israel’s bravery and apathy, God’s provision, and Israel’s ultimate victory through the bravery of Jael, a lady living in a tent. This part of the book of Judges might remind us of a musical—the kind in which an event is punctuated with a song. The song does tell a story, but it also tells us how the story made Deborah and Barak feel. Israel commonly put their history, their worries, and their praise to music. 

How should I respond?

It’s been said that music is the universal language. It has the power to move us emotionally, especially when we identify with the message of the lyrics. God gave us a mind to comprehend the big events in life and a heart and voice to express our feelings about them in song. What songs about the Lord speak to your heart? Which worship song is particularly encouraging to you in your current circumstances? Follow Deborah’s example and sing your praise to God both in private and corporate worship. Whether recent events in your life have been happy or sad, expressing your dependence on the Lord through song can be both uplifting and healing.