Living With Deborah: Privileged to Collaborate

For the final bit of the Deborah chapter in my new book, Thus Sayeth the Lord — let's look at the man in this equation — the general Barak.

Previously in the chapter: part 1, part 2, part 3

LIVING WITH DEBORAH
Privileged to Collaborate

We’ve focused on woman-power, but let’s look at Barak, the other major player in this story. He is respected enough to rally ten thousand warriors and lead them to a blowout victory. That’s not the kind of guy who usually comes running when a woman orders, even if she is a judge and prophetess. But Barak respects Deborah’s authority enough to respond to her summons.

Deborah is literally using God’s words, saying, “I will draw Sisera, the general of Jabin’s army, to meet you by the river Kishon with his chariots and his troops; and I will give him into your hand.”

But Barak hesitates, saying, “If you will go with me.” That “if” changed the ultimate hero of the battle, with Jael getting the glory of Sisera’s death. Why does Barak put conditions on his obedience? Is he afraid? Does he or do his troops need a tangible “talisman” of God’s favor? Does he doubt God’s power? We simply don’t know. Again, this story is about God’s victory, not individuals’ internal journeys.

I get Barak. “Yes, but … ” seems to be one of my favorite phrases when God’s desires come to me. No one’s asking me to face down nine hundred weapons of mass destruction, but taking dinner to an ill neighbor down the street can feel just as daunting when I don’t know her.

Sometimes, I’m afraid; sometimes, I’m doubting; and sometimes, I want control. “Sure thing, God, great idea — let me just add a wrinkle. If that doesn’t work, then we’ll go with your plan.” God keeps shoving us out of our comfort zones in the hopes that someday we’ll say yes and then shut up. Just so we can see, like Deborah and Jael, how amazing it can be when things get messy and God works them out.

Barak is included in a list of heroes of the faith in Hebrews 11 where Saint Paul says, “out of weakness they were made powerful, became strong in battle, and turned back foreign invaders.” I take solace in the fact that God used Barak despite his weakness, whatever it was.

This is what I’ve got to remember. Every time I answer God’s commands, I am rewarded with overflowing generosity. My life becomes richer, I become stronger in faith, and I know God a little more personally.

Also, Barak doesn’t hold a grudge or blame people for his shortcomings. He’s right there with Deborah singing that celebration hymn. That also encourages me to keep the right perspective and rejoice in God’s victory no matter how imperfect my collaboration might be.

I still haven’t gotten that victory party with roasted sheep and Bollywood dancing, but a girl can always hope!

If you liked what you've been reading, don't wait. Thus Sayeth the Lord comes out on March 31. Preorder your copy now!