Lesson 8: Deborah- The Holy Spirit
Based on Judges 4 and 5
Deborah:
At the time she was the only woman judge of Israel. She has been described as, “a bee in peace” and “a wasp in war.” She was also a prophetess and military leader.
God had spoken in the past through His leaders Moses and Joshua, and now He was speaking through Deborah.
Long before Deborah exercised her uncommon leadership and decision-making skills to save her nation in a time of trouble, she was a homemaker, a wife and mother in Israel.
Her compassion had been awakened by the atrocities suffered by her people. She arose to make herself available, and she was victorious as she herself trusted God, then inspired others within her sphere of influence with that same trust.
Highlights on Deborah:
- Leadership Train-
She judged Israel during the oppression by Jabin (Judges 4:3-4)
- God Promises-
God promised to deliver Israel from Sisera. (Judges 4:7)
- God’s Instructions-
The Lord commanded her to send the troops out to destroy Sisera. (Judges 4:6-7)
- The People’s Affirmation:
Barak and the people followed the leadership of Deborah. (Judges 4:8)
- Deborah’s Leadership-
She inspired Barak to pursue God’s plan, leading him into battle. (Judges 4:9)
Observations:
- She listened to God (Judges 4:5)
- She had a servant’s heart (Judges 4:9)
- She delegated tasks (Judges 4:6-7)
- She led with authority from God (Judges 4:4)
- She motivated the people (Judges 4:9-14)
- She was a respected leader (Judges 4:8)
Reflection Questions:
1. As we look at Deborah’s life and how God used her, in what ways are you allowing God to use you?2. Have you received any gifts of the Holy Spirit? If yes, what are they?
3. If you have not received any gifts of the Holy Spirit, are you praying about it? Which one will you like to have?
Conclusion:
“God is the same yesterday, today, and for eternity! What He did through Deborah, He can do through us. We just have to be willing and available to the Holy Spirit at all times, in order to know when God is speaking to us, and to understand exactly what He wants for us to do. The only question is are you willing to be available for the Holy Spirit to guide your life?
