Bible character overview - Deborah
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Time to read 3 min
Introduction:
Welcome to an insightful character overview of Deborah. Here you'll learn about who Deborah was, what she did, and her strengths and weaknesses. Also, we have provided questions related to the story of Deborah to provoke thought. They can also be used for personal/small-group studies.
Who was Deborah from the Bible?
Key facts
- When: roughly around 1200 - 1124 B.C
- Where: Ephraim
- Name meaning: 'Bee'
Glimpse: Deborah was a mighty woman of God who not only led her nation but did so in victory. She prophesied, settled disputes, and even wrote amazing songs in praise and worship of God. She's only mentioned in 2 chapters of Judges, 4 & 5, but her character and strength powerfully encourage us to live a life obedient to God.
Deborah and Barak
Israel had again slipped into evil and wicked ways and found themselves under the oppressive rule of King Jabin. At this time, Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, led the nation. She regularly held court under the "Palm of Deborah" in Ephraim, where she settled disputes. One day, Deborah called for Barak, the military commander, and instructed him to gather 10,000 men for battle against Sisera, the commander of Jabin's army. Deborah assured Barak of victory but told him that, because he insisted on her presence, the honor of victory would go to a woman instead of him. Barak agreed, and Deborah accompanied him. Together, they defeated Sisera and his forces, fulfilling Deborah's prophecy.
Questions
→ What talents has God given you? Do you have any examples of using your talents for the glory of God?
→ Why do you think Barak wouldn't go without Deborah?
"Barak said to her, “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go."
The song of Deborah
After their victory, Deborah sang a triumphant song of praise, celebrating the leadership and willingness of the people of Israel. In Judges 5:2-3, she declares:
“When the princes in Israel take the lead, when the people willingly offer themselves—praise the Lord! Hear this, you kings! Listen, you rulers! I, even I, will sing to the Lord; I will praise the Lord, the God of Israel, in song.”
Following this period of triumph and divine intervention, Israel enjoyed peace for 40 years.
Questions
→ Why is it important to give God the glory?
→ What times have you been overwhelmed/amazed with God's power in your life?
"So may all your enemies perish, Lord! But may all who love you be like the sun when it rises in its strength.''
Strengths:
- Multitalented: She was a prophet, judge, and songwriter, and even led her army into war
- Ear to hear: She was able to hear God clearly and relay His message with boldness and obedience
- High value: Barak would not go into war without her, showing how crucial she was to the nation and how much influence she had too
Weaknesses:
- N/A
Conclusion
Deborah was used by God in many ways and she did everything to a very high standard. She obeyed God and was used by Him to lead a nation. What we can learn from Deborah is that God uses those who are willing and we must use what we are given to glorify Him.
''For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life''
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