We cannot leave Deborah – not just yet. There are so many wonderful life lessons in her story. One thing we do know for sure is that this woman heard the voice of God clearly. While others wallowed in despair, she earnestly and actively listened for His will, His voice, and His direction. And when the message came, she was bold to deliver it, even without knowing the full outcome.
Deborah agreed to go to battle without being told how the battle would be won, yet she was confident that it would be. Wow. That is moving to me. Being able to say “yes” to the call of God, an impossible call by the way, without knowing the actual how. Perhaps it was enough to know the why – the nation was in danger. It was surely enough to know who – it was the Lord Himself who spoke to her under that palm tree in the quietness of the desert.
We might not be able to hide under the palm tree away from everyday responsibilities, but we can have the mindfulness to put headphones on, to turn off the TV, to close our social media, and allow God to speak into our hearts and minds. That is how you find the kind of courage that keeps you trekking the mountains of life no matter what you see or experience around you.
Paul knew this secret to staying courageous and to displaying a faithful spirit when he wrote to the church at Philippi: Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:4-9)
Rejoice! We are women who meditate on anything that is excellent or praiseworthy. We are women of the Good Report. And because we think on it, we are able to share it and believe it.
Whatever you are facing this week, find your “shade tree,” and fill your mind with the rejoicing and thoughts that will lead you to win battles and lead others to the God of peace.
Always Expect Amazing,
Diane Strack