Have you ever longed for clear direction in your life? A message, a whisper, a prophetic word that cuts through the noise and uncertainty? Our Heavenly Father loves speaking to us and guiding us.
Call to me and I will answer you, and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.
Jeremiah 33:3
What a joy to hear Him speak as you read His word, pray and spend time with Him.
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me…
John 10:27
When doubt creeps in
What happens when doubt creeps in, turning that whisper into a confusing echo?
The story of Barak in Judges 4 offers a relatable glimpse into this struggle. Chosen by God to lead an army against a formidable enemy, Barak received a prophetic word through Deborah:
The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you:
Judges 4:6-7
‘Go…and I will…’
Yet, instead of unwavering faith, Barak faltered. His response:
If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go
Judges 4:8
He placed conditions on his obedience, mirroring the “ifs and buts” we often find ourselves clinging to.
Barak, whose name means ‘lightening/flashing sword’, was called by God to lead 10,000 men to take Sisera and Jabin’s army out, yet he did not trust God for himself. He would only go if Deborah went with him.
Encouragement to win
Thankfully, God doesn’t give up on us easily. With patience and understanding, He sent Deborah by his side. Together, they climbed Mount Tabor, and there, Deborah reminded Barak of God’s unwavering promise: “Go…” (Judges 4:14).
Don’t you just love how patient God is when we struggle to trust Him.
Isn’t it wonderful when people encourage us to keep going until we fully trust God for ourselves to do what He says He will do.
With Deborah’s encouragement, Barak rises up and just as God had promised, all the troops of Sisera fell by the sword, not a man was left (Judges 4:16). Barak pursues Sisera and finds him dead, killed by Jael, the woman whose tent he had taken refuge in.
The One who is faithful
Such an encouragement for us: God remains faithful even when we falter.
Don’t give up walking in what God has spoken over you. Trust He will do what He has said He will do.
He doesn’t require flawless obedience, just a willing heart ready to move when He whispers “Go.” Remember, just like He fulfilled His promises to Barak and Israel, He will fulfil them for you too.
Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed, every one was fulfilled.
Joshua 21:45
So, what does this mean us?
- Seek God’s voice: Spend time in prayer, study the Word and create space to hear Him speak.
- Recognize your doubts: Acknowledge your fears and uncertainties, but don’t let them dictate your actions.
- Take the first step: Even if it feels small, begin your journey of obedience. God will meet you there.
- Trust His promises: Hold onto the truth that He is faithful and His word will never fail (Joshua 21:45).
So, the next time you hear God’s call, remember Barak’s story. Choose to step out in faith, replacing your “ifs and buts” with a resounding “Yes, Lord!”
Share your own story of overcoming doubt and embracing God’s guidance to encourage someone else.
