1/5/26: Grown Woman Faith Requires Courage

Anchor Scripture: “At that time Deborah, a prophet, wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel. ”— Judges 4:4

Deborah didn’t stumble into leadership. She was placed there.

Scripture introduces her plainly. A prophet. A judge. A woman trusted to hear God and settle disputes. No backstory explaining how she got permission. No justification for her authority. Just evidence of obedience lived out loud.

And then comes Barak.

God gives clear instruction through Deborah. The plan is specific. The outcome is promised. And yet, Barak hesitates. He wants Deborah beside him before he moves forward.

Now let’s be honest. That moment feels familiar.

Because many of us know what it’s like to be clear, while others are cautious. To feel God pressing us forward while the people around us ask for extra confirmation, extra reassurance, extra proof.

Deborah doesn’t shame him. She doesn’t withdraw. But she does tell the truth. There will be a cost to delayed obedience. The glory will not land where it could have.

That’s a hard word. And a necessary one.

Deborah models what grown woman faith looks like. Faith that listens carefully. Faith that speaks clearly. Faith that moves without needing unanimous agreement.

She shows us that leadership often means carrying clarity in rooms full of hesitation. That obedience sometimes looks like standing steady while others decide whether they trust God enough to follow.

And still, God delivers.

Which tells me something important.  God’s plans are not fragile. But our opportunities to walk fully in them can shift based on our response.

Deborah reminds us that when God calls you forward, you do not need to wait for everyone else to catch up. You are allowed to move with confidence rooted in obedience.

And that’s our word today.

You are not behind.

You are not imagining the call.

You are not wrong for being ready.

God knew who to speak to when He spoke to you.