Study together · The Cast

Deborah

A prophetess who judged Israel, called a reluctant general to battle, and sang when the LORD won.

The story

1. Judging under the palm Judges 4:4-5

   Israel comes to her for judgment during a time of oppression.

2. Calls Barak Judges 4:6-10

   She gives the LORD's command. When Barak insists she come, she goes and warns him the honor will go to a woman.

3. Sends Barak down Tabor Judges 4:14-16

   She sends Barak down Mount Tabor, and the LORD routs Sisera's army.

4. The song Judges 5:1-31

   She and Barak sing of the LORD's victory, and the land has rest for forty years.

Key verses

“Up! For this is the day in which the LORD has given Sisera into your hand.” Judges 4:14 (ESV)

Read together: Judges 4:4-5 · Judges 4:6-10 · Judges 4:14-16 · Judges 5:1-31

Questions to sit with

1. Deborah gave Barak God's word but let the honor go elsewhere. Where are you tempted to need credit for what God does through you?
2. Her song names both the faithful and the absent. Which of the two is closer to you right now?

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible, © 2001 by Crossway. Used by permission.