Have you wondered if there’s anyone with you? Is anyone available to travel this journey with you? Must you face the circumstances alone? Of course not! You’re not alone. Surely, someone’s working on your behalf.
The Story: Judges 4
In Judges 4, the Israelites faced oppression from the Canaanites because they did evil in the sight of God. After 20 years of torment, Israel cried out to God for help. Deborah, who was a judge over Israel, told Barak, the commander of the army, to prepare the men for war for God was with them. She explained the plan for the encounter. However, Barak replied that he would only go to war if Deborah came. As a result of his response, she said that the Lord would give victory into the hands of a woman.
As a result, Barak, Deborah, and the army met and fought against Sisera and the Canaanite army. Israel defeated the Canaanites, but Sisera, the commander of the army, fled on foot. He went to the tent of Jael, who along with her husband had peace with the King of Canaan. Believing he entered a safe place, Sisera laid down for rest and went to sleep. As he slept, Jael killed him. Barak arrived at the tent and Jael took him to where Sisera was.
The Lesson
Barak had a job to do, but he refused to do it alone. He knew the power of togetherness. Although Deborah was going with him, he didn’t know that there were two more working on his behalf. Barak shows us how a tribe can lead to victory.
- God is on our side. Like us, Barak didn’t recognize that even without the presence of Deborah, he wasn’t alone. God is with us especially when He gives us the assignment. He promises to never leave or forsake us (Isaiah 41:10). His Word is true.
- Partner in the fight. Deborah knew that Barak could handle the fight. Yet, she accompanied him in the battle. Therefore, who has our back? Who’s encouraging us along the way? This person acts as a rock when we don’t recognize our own strength. He/she knows the gift God placed in us and pushes us to success. Although the person is carrying their own load, our partner takes time to help us along the way.
- Secret weapon. Although Barak didn’t know Jael, she became his secret weapon. She supported the Israelites and was ready to assist when the time arrived. Like Barak, we’re not aware of our secret weapons. They are destiny helpers, who assist us on our path to purpose. They render aid at just the right time. Take a moment to remember the secret weapons we’ve encountered. They showed up when we needed them although we didn’t ask. As they’re needed, they will appear.
When we band together with our tribe of three, we become a fantastic four. Each role is essential and aids us in our assignment. With the presence of the tribe, we’re never alone.
