September 7, 2024
The late UCLA men’s basketball coach, John Wooden, is credited with saying, “It is amazing how much can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.” Of course, the idea is selflessness, teamwork and anonymity. The pursuit of a mission accomplished should be more important than individual praise or recognition. There is nothing wrong with encouraging or even recognizing the arduous work of others, but sometimes people are overlooked.
While serving in churches or ministry can be a thankless or forgotten work, it is in no way unimportant or unnoticed by God. Here is a measuring stick to determine your genuineness in service: Would you continue serving God if no one ever thanked you or noticed? If the answer is yes, your reward will be great in Heaven! Keep it up!
In Scripture, there is a powerful account of Deborah and Barak. Deborah, a judge, called up Barak to lead in a specific task. There were no assurances of fame or popularity, but the call to obedience hung heavy over his head.
God used Deborah for her wisdom and Barak as a warrior. Each of us may have varied roles, but they are equally important. Barak was capable and proven effective in times of battle and leadership.
Deborah’s role was to settle disputes among the people. These two individuals provide us with a clear example of how God can choose and use whomever He desires.
Male or female, judge or soldier, God’s purposes will be accomplished how He sees fit. The beauty of this duo is the gentle nudge from Deborah. Barak needed a little reassurance, and Deborah provided the best counsel possible when she reminded him that God was with him and He was expecting obedience.
Being challenged by God and following through with obedience are the greatest ways to grow your faith.
Sisera was an intimidating opponent, and one could understand why Barak was facing some uncertainty.
Sisera had oppressed the people of Israel for 20 years, and they were tired of this familiar foe. In a great display of the power and intervention of God, Barak and his men were victorious. God confused the enemy, destroyed their egos and even caused their chariots to be stuck in the mud.
God was in the details, and God received the victory. Barak used every opportunity and resource given to him by God and did not quit fighting until every single opposing soldier had been destroyed. It is a picture reminding us that complete obedience leads to complete victory.
It could be said that Barak won the battle. It could also be said without Deborah, Barak would not have obeyed. The one sure conclusion is that the credit belonged to God.
In their adoration and recognition of the Lord, Deborah composed a victory song, and Barak joined in to sing. They could have been tempted to sing “I Did it My Way,” but instead they used their voices to sing of the goodness of God. Genuine worship is a response to the activities and attributes of the Father.
When was the last time you recognized the hand of God in your life and His blessings? He has brought you victory in your battles and hope in your times of doubt. Don’t just think about it — sing!
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This lesson was written by Bobby McKay, pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi, and originally published by The Baptist Paper. This study is based on the Bible Studies for Life curriculum from Lifeway Christian Resources.
