Heb 11:32b And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of… Barak,…
The life of Barak is related to us in Judges 4:1-4:24.
Barak was a military leader in the Israelite army in the days when the judges ruled over Israel. The story of Barak is very similar to the story of Gideon. Barak led the smaller, weaker army of Israel against an oppressive Canaanite army, whose strength and numbers was emphasized by the statement that “they had nine hundred chariots of iron”.
In spite of the similarity to Gideon, there is one big difference between Barak and Gideon. Barak stepped out by faith in obedience to the Lord’s will ONLY when he was encouraged and accompanied by Deborah. (Deborah was a judge and prophetess in the land of Israel whose faith and courage allowed her to become an outstanding example of a Godly woman who is faithful to the Lord while holding a high position of authority.) There are at least three main ideas for us to consider in the story of Barak…
1. We must consider Deborah…The Hebrews 11 reference to the faithfulness of Barak MUST INCLUDE an acknowledgement and consideration of the greater faith of Deborah. In Deborah we find an excellent example of a woman who was dedicated to her Lord who was faithful in the God-given position of authority.
2. We must consider Barak… The faith, or lack thereof, of Barak can teach us much about the faithful servants of God as well. Those who serve the Lord are not perfect, at times their faith fails. Just because our faith may falter at times, it does not mean that we are eliminated from the service of God.
3. We must consider Deborah and Barak…. Probably the greatest lesson to be learned is the importance of those who are stronger in faith to support and help those who are struggling in their faith towards God. Without Deborah’s strong stand, Barak would not have led the Israelites to victory (Jud 4:8).
Is our faith strong? Look about us and see those who are struggling in their faith, stand with them, encourage them, and sacrifice for them... great things can be accomplished when we stand together for the Lord.
Is our faith weak? Pray, search the Scriptures, and then look about us and seek out those who are stronger in the faith. We should ask for their advice, ask for their aid, ask them to stand with us in prayer and physically accompany us when appropriate. The Lord will bless you as you Scripturally seek aid for your weakened faith.
May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.
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