Most of my training in ministry and in the marketplace was hands on! I was called on when I least expected it. Often times I was just put out there, and it was no time to have a panic attack or say, “No” or “I can’t do this!” I learned how to be ready in season and out of season.
As a leader, sometimes you do things that are not apart of your job description. We tend to do what is needed. However, we didn’t ask for some things we are now doing and responsible for. Sometimes the task chooses us based on how we carried out other tasks and responsibilities.
In Judges 4, Deborah didn’t ask to lead 10,000 men of Naphtali and Zebulun up to Mount Tabor. That command was given to Barak. However, Barak did not heed the command. As a matter of fact, he would not go unless Deborah went with him. Much can be said about Barak’s actions, but I want to focus on Deborah’s actions because she didn’t ask for this. She didn’t ask to lead anyone. She was just being obedient and giving Barak the word of the Lord.
There will be times when we didn’t ask for the spotlight. We didn’t ask for the extra duties and/or responsibilities, yet they will come our way. However, our response in situations we didn’t ask for can further advance the mission of God in a crucial time.
How we handle times when we didn't ask to be a part of a certain circumstance or situation but find ourselves in the midst of it all is important and can be life changing to those who are in the middle of it with you.
There are few things we can glean from Deborah when we are in situations we didn't ask to be in. The first thing to take away from Deborah is her attitude about the situation. She didn't have a bad attitude or complain. She said, "Certainly I will go with you" ((Judges 4:9). Deborah didn’t set out to go with Barak, but she went with him. Her presence was needed as part of a greater plan. Her presence gave Barak the confidence and courage he needed to pursue Sisera.
Deborah held true to her role as a prophet. Deborah was called on at a moment's notice, and she continued to walk in her call and giftings. She told Barak, "But because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours, for the LORD Will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman." Deborah was truthful with Barak about what was about to take place. Even though Sisera was probably meant to be subdued by Barak, not Jael, ultimately God’s plans were still carried out.
It's true. It’s not about you. It's not about me. It's about God’s overall plans for our lives. Sometimes we will know and be prepared to move forward. Other times we may be thrown into a situation we did not ask for, but God will ensure we are equipped for service and will be victorious.