Living Out Justiceਨਮੂਨਾ

Wisdom, faith and trust

‘Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time...and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided.’ (Judges 4:4-5, NIV)

Reflect:

Deborah, the prophet and judge in Judges 4, exemplified wisdom and faith. She was trusted as a renowned leader of her people.

Amid Israel’s oppression by the Canaanites, she responded to God's call with unwavering confidence, guiding the nation towards justice and victory. In her wisdom, Deborah summoned the military commander, Barak, and urged him to lead the charge against the enemy. With confidence, she assured him of God’s promise; it is this faith in God that served as the foundation for her leadership.

So well regarded was Deborah that Barak refused to go into battle without her. In this way, her story demonstrates the costliness of leadership and action. It is not something to aspire to as much as it is a responsibility to bear in mature faith. We must adopt the posture of a servant first, and be willing to embrace challenging situations with God’s help.

Deborah’s story models how God equips us and offers strength not only for ourselves but for those around us. We are called to be bold, wise and faithful, trusting God’s promises in every circumstance.

Daily Action:

How much do you expect from the leaders around you? How often do you pray for them?

Leadership is more than standing at the front. It’s about faithfully showing up to serve, often in trying and tiring circumstances. In 1 Thessalonians 5, it is clear that we are to honour our leaders and to never stop praying.

Organise a prayer meeting for community figures, educators, and local decision-makers, covering them in prayer as they lead and make critical decisions. If you are unable to share with them in person, write to them and express your care and your desire to pray for them, asking for requests.

As you meet, pray for wisdom, peace, courage, integrity, encouragement, strength, and perseverance, hope, fresh energy and creativity, health, family life, patience, humility and servant leadership. If you would like to follow these prayer points, make use of our Praying for Leaders guide:

Praying for Leaders - The Salvation Army International Spiritual Life Development

Just as Deborah empowered Barak to fight for the victory that she knew was secure, step into roles where you can uplift and stand alongside others in servant-hearted posture.

Prayer:

God, grant me the wisdom and courage of Deborah. May my heart trust your promises and may I lead with confidence, grace and humility.

Inhale: God, you equip me with wisdom.

Exhale: Help me to lead and serve by faith.