Lacking in Confidence or Courage? Start by Confessing It.
It's easy to miss some of the most profound lessons when we read the Bible.
When Deborah reminds Barak that God has called him to lead Israel, it's easy to miss the real lesson in his response.
Barak said to her, “If you will go with me, I will go, but if you will not go with me, I will not go.” (Judges 4:8)
Yes, God's words and assurances should have been enough. But if you focus on that, you miss the point
The point is that he's not too proud to ask for help.
And he's in good company. Barak's reluctance is much like Moses'.
But [Moses] said, “Oh, my Lord, please send someone else.” Then the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses and he said, “Is there not Aaron, your brother, the Levite? I know that he can speak well. Behold, he is coming out to meet you, and when he sees you, he will be glad in his heart. You shall speak to him and put the words in his mouth, and I will be with your mouth and with his mouth and will teach you both what to do. He shall speak for you to the people, and he shall be your mouth, and you shall be as God to him. And take in your hand this staff, with which you shall do the signs.” (Exodus 4:13-17)
If you’re timid or afraid, bring your fear to God. Tell him. Ask for help. Barak asks Deborah to come with him. And when she agrees, that’s all he needs for the courage to fight a powerful foe.