You Need a Back Coverer
A falling camel attracts many knives. – Arabic Proverb
Everyone who has made a dent or a difference for God has had ‘protectors’…people who have put themselves out there to stand between the personal and the fray.
A Deborah says ‘I’ve got your back’
A Deborah is willing to stand in the gap
A Deborah will take a bullet for you
The story of Deborah is found in Judges 4 and 5.
In this history of Israel, only three people combined the offices of prophet, judge, and military leader: Moses, Samuel, and Deborah. When you add to the mix her ability as a poet, as revealed in the victory duet she sang with Barak, this “fiery spirit” is in a category all by herself.
She accompanied the reluctant General Barak onto the Theatre of Battle, there to cover his back and offer moral and spiritual support. Who do you have to watch your back? Who is providing cover for you?
The plain truth is that we all need a back coverer…because we are all going to take it in the back at some point. The world is full of people who like nothing better than to kill you…your reputation, your spirit, your mission. If your life is on mission for good and for God, you’ll be the first to be fired on by enemies…and by friends.
Sometimes Deborahs fight alongside you on the front lines; but mostly they cover you with prayer from a distance. It is not always those who are closest to you that determine your level of success.
Deborah didn’t fight next to Barak, but she covered Barak’s back with the fire of her words, her spirit, and her courage. She was always close enough to catch Barak’s eye, and the presence of her spirit bolstered his own. Sometimes we need a Deborah to protect us from ourselves…from our gaffs and our moods.
Journal Questions:
Who are your protectors now? Who have been your protectors? When was the last time you thanked someone for covering your back?
Do you think you have Deborahs in your life that you don’t know about?
Deborah is described as having a ‘fiery spirit’. Do you think a Deborah has to be fiery or can they be quiet too?
How important is prayer in the life of a back coverer?