A buttress is an architectural term referring to a structure built against a wall to support or reinforce. While seemingly insignificant, without it the wall would fall. In the period of the judges in the Old Testament, one might call Deborah a buttress of sorts. The only female judge, Deborah stood out – and stood firm – among her peers.

And Deborah said to Barak, “Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Does not the Lord go out before you?”

Judges 4:14

She called the commander Barak with a message from God: to gather his troops and head to the river Kishon, where the Lord would deliver his enemy Sisero to him. Even with God’s guarantee of success, Barak wouldn’t go without Deborah. Some people are so full of the Spirit of God, just being around them makes you feel more confident. Deborah obliged Barak and offered the wise counsel of today’s verse.

She reminded him that God had already given him victory and had gone before him into battle. Remember the faithfulness of Deborah and consider who might need your encouragement today. Ask God to point out people who need to hear how He has gone before them. Then pray for Christians who hold political offices to be encouraged as well.

Recommended Reading: Romans 1:8-17