Deborah
Major oppression had gripped the land when the forces led from a powerful Coalition by the hands of Sisera and Jabin. They had a military advantage so they terrorized the nearby people. The people called out to the one true God and prayed for His help. They remembered when they obeyed God how things were good and they were happy (Judges 4). Deborah was an important figure at this time, she was a prophetess and a judge who lead her people. Women throughout this time played important roles. This was unusual however, it indicates there was a lack of willing and qualified men. Deborah became involved in the struggle to help her people. The Lord God had commanded her to challenge Barak who was their military leader, to confront Sisera and his troops. (Barak means thunderbolt summoned to be the Lords flashing sword) Barak was lacking in courage and determination to fight this enemy for he had heard of the great number of chariots they had. Barak told Deborah that he would only go if she came with him. This showed disgrace on his part to depend on a woman. He was seen as weak by his actions. Deborah revealed the site of the battle and what God had told them to do. But Barak would not get the honor of winning the battle, for the honor will be given to a women. God took the lead and helped Barak fight the enemy. Sisera and his army were thrown into confusion with a great thunderstorm. The chariots were stuck in the mud. Sisera escaped from his chariot and ran on foot to a nearby own. There he entered the house of Jael, the wife of Heber, because the people of this town were to be on friendly terms with him. She let him hide there. But when Sisera fell asleep she drove a tent stake into his head and killed him. She killed him because she knew he was an evil and hated oppressor. Victory was not considered complete until their leader was eliminated. In this specific case the Lord God demanded their lives be taken. When Barak finally tracked down Sisera, Jael showed him the dead leader. Deborah’s prediction had come true, Barak lost the honor of vanquishing his chief rival. The honor was given to a woman.

Done in watercolor