Character Study Of Deborah Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF DEBORAH – PROPHETESS AND JUDGE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Judges 4:4

"And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time."

Supporting Texts: Judges 5:7, Isaiah 3:10, Psalm 46:5, 2 Timothy 1:7, Proverbs 31:8-9

INTRODUCTION:

Deborah was a remarkable woman in Israel’s history, serving as both a prophetess and a judge. At a time when Israel was oppressed by the Canaanites, she led the nation with wisdom and courage. She was not only a spiritual leader but also a warrior who encouraged Barak to go into battle against Israel’s enemies.

Unlike many other judges who were warriors first, Deborah’s leadership was rooted in her relationship with God. She gave prophetic guidance to the people and led Israel with justice and wisdom. Under her leadership, Israel experienced deliverance and peace for forty years.

Her life is a testimony to how God can use both men and women to accomplish His purpose. She was an example of faith, courage, wisdom, and obedience to God’s call.

1. DEBORAH WAS A PROPHETESS AND A JUDGE

Deborah was both a spiritual and political leader in Israel.

a) She received divine revelations from God (Judges 4:4)

God spoke through her to guide Israel.

b) She provided wisdom and judgment for the people (Judges 4:5)

The Israelites came to her for counsel.

c) She was recognised as a leader in Israel (Judges 5:7)

She called herself "a mother in Israel," meaning she cared for the nation.

d) Her leadership was divinely appointed (Judges 4:6)

She did not take power for herself; God placed her in that position.

2. DEBORAH ENCOURAGED OTHERS TO BE BRAVE

She inspired faith and courage in those around her.

a) She commanded Barak to go to war (Judges 4:6-7)

She assured him that God had given Israel victory.

b) She strengthened the weak-hearted leader, Barak (Judges 4:8-9)

When Barak hesitated, she agreed to go with him.

c) She motivated Israel to rise up against their oppressors (Judges 5:12)

She called the tribes to take action.

d) She did not let fear stop her from fulfilling God’s will (Judges 4:14)

She trusted in God's power, not human strength.

e) Biblical Example: Moses encouraged Joshua to be strong and courageous (Deuteronomy 31:7-8)

3. DEBORAH WAS A WOMAN OF GREAT WISDOM

Her decisions were guided by wisdom from God.

a) She led Israel with righteousness and justice (Judges 4:5)

She gave fair judgments to the people.

b) She knew how to handle difficult situations (Judges 4:9)

She prophesied that a woman (Jael) would kill Sisera.

c) She used strategy and divine insight in battle (Judges 4:14-15)

She instructed Barak on the right time to attack.

d) She knew the importance of giving God the glory (Judges 5:3)

After the victory, she led Israel in a song of praise.

e) Biblical Example: Solomon ruled Israel with divine wisdom (1 Kings 3:9-12)

4. DEBORAH WAS A WOMAN OF FAITH AND COURAGE

She did not let fear stop her from doing God's work.

a) She trusted God's promises completely (Judges 4:14)

She believed in the victory before it happened.

b) She was not afraid to confront powerful enemies (Judges 4:6-7)

She delivered God's command to Barak with boldness.

c) She took action when others hesitated (Judges 5:7)

When no one else stepped up, she led.

d) She put God's mission above personal comfort (Judges 4:9)

She was willing to go to the battlefield if necessary.

e) Biblical Example: Esther displayed faith and courage to save Israel (Esther 4:16)

5. DEBORAH WAS A WORSHIPPER AND GAVE GLORY TO GOD

After the victory, she led Israel in praising God.

a) She acknowledged that victory comes from God (Judges 5:2)

She did not take credit for herself.

b) She sang a song of thanksgiving to God (Judges 5:3)

She expressed gratitude for divine intervention.

c) She encouraged Israel to remain faithful to God (Judges 5:9)

She reminded them that God was their true leader.

d) She used worship as a tool for motivation (Judges 5:12)

She inspired others to remain courageous through worship.

e) Biblical Example: Miriam led Israel in a song of praise after the Red Sea victory (Exodus 15:20-21)

6. STRENGTHS OF DEBORAH

Deborah’s strengths made her an outstanding leader in Israel.

a) She had a strong relationship with God (Judges 4:4)

b) She was bold in delivering God’s message (Judges 4:6)

c) She was a wise and fair judge (Judges 4:5)

d) She was an encourager and motivator (Judges 4:8-9)

e) She gave glory to God in all things (Judges 5:3)

7. WEAKNESSES OF DEBORAH

While Deborah was an excellent leader, there are a few things to note which are not necessary weaknesses.

a) She worked with a hesitant leader (Barak), which delayed victory (Judges 4:8)

b) She took on roles that men refused to handle (Judges 5:7)