Our Great Counselor
By, Toni Smothers
Scripture Reading: Judges 4:1-9
Scripture Quote: “Then Deborah said to Barak, "Go! This is the day the LORD has given Sisera into your hands. Has not the LORD gone ahead of you?" So Barak went down Mount Tabor, with ten thousand men following him.” Judges 4:14 (NIV)
Deborah was a prophetess who conveyed to the Isrealites knowledge of God's Will. Her’s was the first instance of female government in the society of Deborah’s time. She was a capable leader and held court under a certain tree in the hill country of Ephraim. The Isrealites went there to have their disputes settled.
During that time, Deborah appointed Barak, from Kedesh, to be the General over the armies, further proving that she welded great power. Barak insisted that Deborah accompany him so success would be certain. He so firmly depended on her Divine call that he was certain only she would know from God the advantageous time to make his assault.
While Barak's attack was eventually successful, I wonder how different his confidence level would have been if God’s Holy Spirit were Barak’s personal council, as He is ours. We must never take God’s favor for granted. He has blessed us with perfect comfort and guidance whenever we need help. We have Jesus as our intercessor and we are equipped with the armour of faith and prayer. God is always with us.
Today’s meditation: We have a direct connection to God.
Memory Verse: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8 (NIV)