Leadership

I read an interesting article this week in Worship Leader Magazine by Vicky Beeching about Deborah. She referenced the story of Deborah's leadership in Judges 3-5. Think about that time and place in history and the role of women at that time. Specifically, think about what it must have been like to be a woman in leadership at that time. Here's what it says about Deborah:
v.4 "Deborah, a prophetess,...was leading Israel at that time. She held court...and the Israelites came to her to have their disputes decided." Pretty amazing!

She had enough respect among men to arbitrate their disputes. She led the military with Barak and led their nation to victory. But the remarkable thing is not that Deborah was a woman, though this was unusual. The remarkable thing here is that she knew how to lead. Beeching says, "She wasn't just a political and military leader. Her role also involved helping people know what to do in life." Beeching goes on to say one of the most profound things that has stuck with me all week:
No matter who is in leadership or what their gender, the important thing is that leaders are called first and foremost to follow God. Whatever we try to accomplish is empty without His truth, guidance, and inspiration. Deborah reminds us that God is the true leader. Our role is to be in tune with His direction; then we are privileged to share that vision with others.

After she led Israel to victory, Deborah sang a beautiful song of worship. Here's one of the lyrics from that song: Judges 5:2 "When the people willingly offer themselves--praise the LORD!"

As we prepare for worship this Sunday, and for this year of Tranformation, my prayer is that we will first and foremost willingly offer ourselves for God's Kingdom. My prayer is that we will tune into His truth, His guidance and His inspiration so that we have the privilege of sharing who God is with others.

Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace.