Judges 5

To read this text CLICK HERE

Judges 5:31, “So may all your enemies perish, Lord!  But may all who love you be like the sun when it rises in its strength.”

The Song of Deborah recorded in this chapter is a beautiful example of an ode of triumph, a typical ancient Hebrew poem which eloquently records the events of chapter 4 (when Deborah led the Israeli people to victory over the Canaanites).  In Hebrew, there would be a staccato-like emphasis in every line.  Much of the effect is lost in translation to English.

The conclusion to the poem, today's focus verse, pulls it all together.  Yes, Deborah, Barak, and others were instrumental in defeating the Canaanites, but in the end, the victory belonged to God.  Those who oppose the Lord will perish and those who love the Lord will be blessed.  If only the Israelites remembered this.

Let's pray...Lord, Help us remember that all good things come from you.  As we celebrate the season, help us keep you as our focus.  When we get distracted, pull us back.  We need you.  More of you, less of me.  Amen.