When I was studying especially about women in the Bible, I came across one, of whom I hadn’t ever heard a sermon about, who is Deborah, a judge. On YouTube I came across male ministers discussing her, but none emphasized the uncommon, remarkable role she played as leader, judge, warrior, motivator, deliverer, and protector of God’s people.

It’s ironic with the low status of women in that day that Jesus chose to appear to Mary and other women, and that ‘the first Christian preachers of the Resurrection were not men, but women’. (The Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels, p 883.)

Jesus did not chose to appear to the ‘vicar’ of the church, Peter, or even a disciple. He appeared to Mary and the women who followed and served Him.

So, women as well as men were credible witnesses to the gospel and were commissioned to preach it to all whom they come into contact. And, the women were faithful in proclaiming the gospel, even to disciples (as discussed in ‘Apostle to the Apostles: the Women Disciples of Jesus,’ by Shawna R.B. Atteberry).

Deborah’s recorded experience as a judge to the Israelites, for some reason, seems to be ignored in many of today’s pulpit. This prophetess, wife, and judge even went out to war with the Israelite army and sang her song to the Lord (Judges 5:1). And, she was referred to as the ‘Mother of Israel’—the only woman described by such a title.

And, only a handful of women in the Bible were called the lofty position of a prophetess. The wife of Lapidoth, Deborah’s training ground for remarkable leadership began at the hearth where she served as a wife.

A remarkable leader over God’s people, her wise leadership extended beyond her place of judgment to the plains of battlefield where she rode shoulder-to-shoulder with Barak, the commander of the army. He told her he wouldn’t ride out to battle without her. Although others wavered in faith, including Barak, Deborah’s faith in God’s sure victory over the enemies did not falter, even when the odds were greatly against Israel.

She was also an amazing poet, inspired by God, speaking from the heart of gratitude. She was a singer, too, lifting her spirit and her verses to the heavenly gates as she offered her musical tribute to God for His victory (Judges 5).

Her faith and actions were so needed in this time when no king served Israel and ‘everyone did what was right in his own eyes’ (Judges 21:25).

It was a bleak time characterized by disobedience, idolatry, and defeat after entering the Promise Land.

God had allowed his people to fall into the enemy’s hands where Jabin, the king of Canaan, harshly oppressed them for 20 years. God’s solution to Israel’s predicament was Deborah. She mediated between God and His people. Inspired by God to speak for Him, she poured out His wisdom, knowledge, and instruction when they came for help.

God’s purpose in using Deborah as a judge was to lead His people into successful battle against the Canaanites and ignite spiritual revival in their hearts. Hearing God’s Word through Deborah awakened them from their sagging spiritual condition and stirred their hearts. She brought them back to Him. Deborah’s wisdom came through humility since she didn’t choose to be judge. She proved the path to greatness in God’s kingdom is the path of humble service. She waited on God, encouraged others to take the lead, and assisted only when needed.

A great judge, she was strong in mind and morals. She administered God’s law and managed and counseled. And, strong in body, ‘Deborah arose and went with Barak’ to war (Judges 4:9).

Toughness and energy are primary traits of a successful army, which also characterized Deborah. God had nothing but praise for this remarkable woman and warrior (Judges 4-5).

Other strengths of this female judge was being a gifted writer and singer. She chronicled important events in a day and age when writing instruments were cumbersome and crude. This was when the law of Moses was still being written in stone.

She had not only a sword in her hand but a song in her heart, just as Moses, Miriam, and David (Exodus 15 and 2 and II Samuel 22).

Deborah was a woman after God’s own heart, steadfast, trusting in the Lord (Psalm 112:7).

I encourage readers to read the book of Judges, with only 21 chapters. And, I encourage you to attend a Bible-based church, where these kinds of discipline led by our Creator never become old-fashioned— which differs with what the world wants you to believe today.

The book, The Remarkable Women of the Bible,( Elizabeth George, 2003, Harvest Publishers) is a treasure to read for enlightenment.

Prepare for the coming days celebrating the birth of Christ, our Savior and Redeemer and bless those less unfortunate.

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