In this message Paster Don does a great job using Deborah to identify the character of leaders.  This message is the final in a series on women as great examples, delivered in the month of May, 2008, for which Mother's Day resides in (see messages 0817 - 0819).  Again, like Esther, she looks to God for her leadership.  Next, she develops leaders out of other people.  She surrounds herself with qualified people.  This helps her make wise and informed decisions.  Deborah recognizes those around her as well.  All these qualities and more are found in Deborah.

Message Outline -

Introduction:

Deborah Old Testament Book of Judges 4

The book of Judges is a time of great confusion in Israel history. There is no defined leader compared to Moses, Joshua that proceeded this time. Or like the leaders that would come after this time. Samuel, King Saul, King David, King Solomon. One term used over and over describes that era. “In those days Israel had no king and everyone did as they saw fit” They did their own thing.

Believers Chapel was one of the fastest growing church’s in Syracuse. Many other ministers wanted to know the secret. Paul Wagner was the minister. He gave the same answer to everyone who ask why the church grew. “Everyone needs to be one the same page. Do not allow lone rangers to do their own thing, that is the biggest reason most church’s do not grow.

But now and then in the Book of Judges God would find a person who would obey Him. Sampson, Gideon, and here Deborah.

Deborah is a wife, mother and a prophetess of God. Her name means “Honey Bee”, naturally honey bees produce honey. Honey is a perfect food, it never rots, spoils or needs refrigerated .  But, “honey bees” also have stingers. 

Deborah lead more like Queen Elizabeth I or former PM of England Margaret Thatcher.

Margaret Thatcher said ”being a leader is like being a lady, if you have to say you are, your not.”

#I         Deborah listen to God and took action. 4:6 & 7

a.       Great leaders know their own strengths and weakness and surround themselves with people who have more talents in other areas.

b.      Proverbs: 29:20

c.       Vs. 8 It is not a sin to be afraid of doing something for God.

It can be a sin to let fear hold you back from serving God.

#II        Good leaders inspire others. Vs.9

a.       Don’t go wobble knee on us George. We need you to lead out strong.

#III      When we obey God brings the victory.

a.       Barak lead 10,000, they faced 900 iron chariots.

b.      Chapter 5:4 & 5

c.       The perfect storm.

d.      Chapter 4:15-21

e.       I Corinthians 1:27-28 and II Corinthians 4:7

#IV      She gave praise 5:2 & 9

a.       Send note of praise and thank you.

b.      We need cheer leaders, encouragers.

c.       Godly nature builds people up.

Conclusion:

The odds can be against us, fear can be in us, but the power of God as we obey will bring victory.