Scripture Reading: Judges 4:6-9, 14-16

The story of Deborah shows us a godly woman at work, commissioned by God for leadership during a tremendously difficult time. Deborah’s work was both legal and military. As a judge she settled people’s disputes. She also set military strategy for Israel’s generals, as we see her doing in Judges 4:6-9. Inspired by wisdom from God, she directs Barak, a general, about how to defend the nation of Israel. Barak lacks Deborah’s confidence, so he refuses to go to war without her. Deborah agrees. She goes with the soldiers to the battlefield and delivers such a stirring pep talk in Judges 4:14 that Barak gains enough confidence to do his job successfully.

No other leader in the book of Judges is also called a prophet like Deborah is in Judges 4:4. By this characterization she is similar to Moses and Joshua, to whom God also spoke directly. Deborah led confidently because God put her in leadership and spoke to her about what she should do in that role. Deborah knew that God would help her. This is where Deborah’s confidence came from.

God gifted Deborah, and he gave her success in a time of crisis, even with a poorly equipped army led by a frightened general. Successful working women are not a new phenomenon. God has raised up women as leaders throughout history in many different fields. If you need confidence in your work, look no further than Deborah, who took her confidence from her relationship with God and from the surety that God would help her in her work.

Prayer: God, you have put me in my place of work today. Guide my words and actions. Help me lead with confidence, knowing that you are with me. Amen.

Further Exploration: For more on Deborah and women’s leadership, read the Theology of Work Bible Commentary’s article on Deborah .

Author: Theology of Work Project

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