oddly famous inserts rd4...Deborah’s story reminds us that God is in control, and He will use the...

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Transcript of oddly famous inserts rd4...Deborah’s story reminds us that God is in control, and He will use the...

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God calls unlikely individuals, and He uses what He gives them. As we study Judges 4, one of the best examples of that reality is Deborah — an unlikely leader but a God-gifted woman who accomplished great things. Deborah’s story reminds us that God is in control, and He will use the gifts He has given us to accomplish His purposes through us.

1. Looking back over your life, what’s the biggest challenge or obstacle you had to face? What (if anything) would you change about how you handled that situation?

2. Read Judges 4:1-7. What is the reoccurring theme of Israel at the beginning of this chapter? Describe the dilemma in which they found themselves.

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3. What do we learn about Deborah and her leadership from Judges 4:1-7? What cultural factors might have made Deborah’s decision to become a leader especially courageous?

4. Read Judges 4:8-24. What gifts did Deborah have that God used in this story, and how did He use these gifts to meet the needs of the Israelites? In your opinion, how does Barak compare to Deborah in this passage?

5. How did this story end? What are some reasons people (like Barak) might refuse to listen to the Lord when He tells them to do something?

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6. What are the consequences of not following Jesus with courageous obedience? What are examples of practical ways we demonstrate our faith in God through our actions?

7. Read Matthew 20:26-28. Describe the type of person God desires to use to accomplish His will, and what example did Jesus set for us when it comes to leading? What are some areas in your own life where courage is needed to allow God to use you?

8. Philippians 4:13 is often taken out of context, as Paul was referring to the strength that is rooted in contentment found in Jesus. How does � nding contentment in Christ provide us with strength and resolve to face challenges in life?

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9. Read 2 Corinthians 4:7-18. How does Paul describe his true identity and the impact of Christ’s death and resurrection in enabling him to overcome?

10. How do Paul’s words impact your perspective on di� cult situations? Where do you most need strength and courage this week, and how can we help each other � nd strength when we are running thin?

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11. Deborah’s courage and leadership impacted a nation. She let God control and use the gifts He gave her to accomplish His purposes. Is there something God is asking you to do right now that you lack the courage to do? Practically speaking, how can you rely on His courage instead of your own, and why is this often easier said than done?

12. How can we point one another back to God and courageously pursue His call in our lives? Why do we sometimes need others to encourage us to listen to God, and how can your group help each other do this for one another?

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