6A's Inspiration women from the Bible: Deborah

 Deborah’s story is told in the Book of Judges. She is named in the Bible as a prophetess and a judge and her job was to be the monarch and lead the army. She was the senior judge and led the people of Israel. As a woman in a man’s world, taking a leadership role was not very common, especially at the time Deborah was alive. She would give the generals in the Israelite army instructions about how to conduct battles against their enemies. A palm tree is used to represent Deborah as this was where she would give her instructions. 

Deborah would listen to God’s word and spread it to the people. Because of her leadership, Israel had peace for 40 years. During this time, it was remarkable that men would listen attentively to a woman as women were not seen to be equal to men. Deborah is relevant to us now because it is important to reflect on women in leadership roles in the world today. It is important that we all remember that no matter what gender you are, no job is off limits to us! Deborah can teach us a lot about collaboration and leadership. She showed the ability to be humble and work with others. She did not take all the power to benefit just herself. She understood that you need to work as a team in order to do jobs well and be successful. 

God uses women in key roles in His work. In the Old and New Testament, we see many women being used by God, either behind closed doors (invisible to the public) or openly.

Deborah is one of the most influential women in the Bible.

She played multiple key roles: at home (mother), in her profession (judge), in God’s house (priestess), and in ministry (prophet, pastor, worship leader). She heard God’s voice and shared God’s Word with others. As a priestess, she didn’t offer sacrifices, as the men did, but she led worship services and preached.

God endowed her with powerful qualities, enabling her to fulfil His command here on earth. Deborah used these characteristics wisely and in obedience to God. She abused none of it. She is the only woman of the Old Testament known for her own faith and acts, not because of her connection to her husband or another man.

How can you be like Deborah?

You can be a leader and good example like Deborah.

It starts with us deciding we can be a servant of God. When we are a servant of God we can trust in Him and not be deterred off His path by others. Instead of following those who may be making bad choices, we can be the good example in the world and lead the way to God.

 We can think about everyone when we make a decision and how our decisions impact on others. By working with others and respecting their thoughts, ideas and opinions (just like Deborah did) we can live in peace.

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