9 March | EVERYONE
“Thus let all Your enemies perish, O Lord! But let those who love Him be like the sun when it comes out in full strength.” Judges 5:31
Prophetess Deborah, wife of Lapidoth (Judges 4:4), had been chosen by God to judge Israel. At her headquarters in the center of the country, the most difficult cases arrived, and she always spoke the right word and made wise decisions. She was filled with joy when she saw the people with new dreams of victory. In this way, she fostered among the tribes of Israel a sense of unity and loyalty to Jehovah that they needed to fight the Canaanites.
Although she was not a military leader, Deborah organized an attack on Sisera, captain of the army of the oppressor Jabin, king of Hazor. The prophetess called Barak to lead the Israelite forces, composed mostly of the tribes of Naphtali, Zebulun, and Issachar. Deborah went with them, and God gave them the victory. After the battle, the judge sang a song in praise to God. Among other things, she spoke the words recorded in today's verse.
This woman's greatness consisted not only in the wisdom God gave her to judge Israel, but primarily in her humility and gratitude to recognize that all good things came from God. Deborah is an example of someone who loved the Lord, who was faithful to the mission assigned to her, and who knew how to recognize that all power and honor belong to the Lord.
God also has a mission for you in this world. Even if you face situations that are new to you, He will empower and help you. Just as the sun shines when it rises in its splendor, God wants you to love Him and reflect the brightness of His grace and power in your life. And above all, never forget to give Him all the credit and honor.
Take Action
Ask the Lord to confirm the mission He has for your life; pray also for your (real or potential) enemies. Always have a song of praise in your heart, acknowledging that everything you receive and have comes from His hands. And especially today, sing the "The Song of Deborah."