Deborah and Barak led the men of Israel in a rebellion, routing their oppressors after a fierce battle. The enemy’s general, Sisera, fled on foot. Searching for a place to hide and rest, Sisera jumped at Jael’s open tent flap.
Jael treated Sisera to fresh milk, covered him with a warm blanket, and watched him drift off to sleep. Then she drove a tent peg clear through his head. Steven King’s Misery meets the Old Testament.
What do I learn from this gruesome encounter?
First, the Lord uses unexpected people to lead. As Deborah and Barak led the nation, Jael executed judgement on their chief antagonist.
Second, don’t be afraid to act boldly. Jael made a snap decision, with no apparent hesitation, and helped save her people.
Third, if I use those around me to further my agenda without regard for theirs, I cannot count on their support or loyalty in the future. I’ll eventually reap what I sow.
Finally, it never hurts of be good with a hammer.
See my book Seers, Sayers, Schemers & Saints for more thoughts on Deborah and Jael
Judges 4 in week fourteen of reading the Bible cover to cover
Photo by Lucio Patone
I am really enjoying these daily posts. Excellent shipping!
Thank you, Robin!