SPEAKER: Pastor Larry Hasmatali
DATE: May 10-11, 2025
TITLE: The Mother who Led a Nation
TEXT: Judges 4 & 5

Three responses to the message:
1. Honor women publicly.
2. Support women in their calling.
3. Sow into the next generation.

Study Questions: The Calling and Courage of a Godly Woman in Challenging Times
1. How does Deborah's story reveal God's faithfulness amidst national chaos? Reflection: Israel was in a spiritual mess - oppressed and leaderless. Yet God raised up Deborah with spiritual authority and prophetic wisdom. What does this say about God's character amidst personal or societal failure?
Application: Identify a current area of chaos or uncertainty in your life or community. This week, pray for God to raise up or use someone (perhaps even you) as a voice of wisdom and leadership. Journal how you see His faithfulness show up.
2. What does Deborah's leadership teach us about spiritual versus positional authority? Reflection: Deborah didn't demand authority - people came to her because she walked closely with God. Spiritual authority is earned in private before it's expressed in public. What makes someone a leader worth following in God's eyes?
Application: Evaluate your leadership in your home, ministry, or workplace. Are you drawing people through wisdom, character, and intimacy with God? Choose one private discipline (prayer, Scripture, fasting) to deepen this week.
3. Why is Barak's response to Deborah significant, and what does it reveal about the courage to act in faith? Reflection: Though hesitant, Barak's willingness to go with Deborah shows humility and courage. He didn't let pride stop him from obeying God. What fears or insecurities keep you from stepping into what God calls you to?
Application: Name one area where you've hesitated to act because it seems impossible. Ask the Holy Spirit for courage, and take one concrete step of obedience this week, even if it's small.
4. How can modern-day women (and men) 'arise' like Deborah in challenging times? Reflection: Deborah rose as a mother in Israel, not from ambition but from identity. Today's heroes often arise not in spotlights but in unseen spaces - homes, schools, workplaces, prayer closets. What does 'rising' look like for you?
Application: Identify one woman of faith who has quietly led with courage and godliness. Publicly honor her this week through a card, text, social media post, or conversation.