Heading up the hill, Barak could see Deborah waiting for him under the palm tree. He assumed she had a message from God. After years of hard oppression under Jabin, king of Canaan and his army commander, Sisera, the people of Israel finally repented of their sin. Maybe God was ready to act. All he knew was Deborah had summoned him and wanted a word. What could this mean? Nervousness settled in as Barak stood before Deborah.

“She said to him, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: Call out 10,000 warriors from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun at Mount Tabor. And I will call out Sisera, commander of Jabin’s army, along with his chariots and warriors, to the Kishon River. There I will give you victory over him.”” Judges 4:6-7 NLT

Wait! What? God wanted him to go against Sisera? He didn’t think he could do it, but if Deborah came…

Barak responded with a condition. If Deborah stood by his side, he was willing to go knowing God’s assurance of victory. Though he felt inadequate, he knew by God’s grace and with the encouragement of Deborah’s presence, both could do what God called them to do. The honor of deliverance would now come through a woman, rather than himself. God would use one considered “weak” to display His power over the Canaanites.

Gathering the army of 10,000, God did deliver the Canaanite army into Barak’s hands, however Sisera, the army commander, fled on foot. He found refuge in the tent of a woman, whom he knew to be an ally – Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite and the king’s friend. She provided a safe place to hide, a cool drink, and a soft spot to rest.

Sisera never saw another day. Dealing a treacherous blow with a hammer, Jael drove a tent peg through his head. He never woke up from his nap.

While many would think Barak’s refusal to go alone into battle a sign of cowardice, maybe it actually showed faith. Barak understood his limitations and looked for Deborah’s guidance as he rallied the troops. He trusted in God’s sustaining grace to provide what he needed, and together he and Deborah fulfilled what God called them to do. Far from “weak”, Jael, with her hospitable ways, quickly encouraged Sisera’s trust, allowing her to rid Israel of a terrible evil.

Both Deborah and Jael were powerful and determined. God provided the necessary ability and opportunity for each woman to play the part for which God called them. Deborah initiated the campaign, as Jael dealt Sisera with his fatal blow. In fulfilling his duty as army commander, Barak did not receive glory, but he trusted God in his weakness. Even though deliverance came by Jael’s hands, the greatest glory and praise was offered to Jehovah, the God of Israel through the song of Deborah and Barak in Judges 5. Victory came through the willingness of three people to be used by God, and His power was displayed.

Sometimes we feel inadequate for the job God has called us to do. While He gives us many opportunities and the ability to fulfill His purposes, sometimes we need people to walk alongside to complete the task. Several times throughout their song, Deborah and Barak proclaimed delight “when the people willingly offer themselves.” Judges 5:2 (NIV) Obedience to God begins with a willingness to be used by Him. He supplies all we need to do what He asks us to do.

Whether God is calling you to do something big or something small, whether you are able to stand alone or need a friend, your willingness starts God’s plan in using you. He sets the timing, the opportunity, and provides you with the ability. Through you, His power is displayed, and others see His glory. What is God calling you to do today? All it takes is willingness and a step of faith.