Deborah Said Yes | Pastor Mark Pearce

The Book of Judges tells the story of a nation caught in a cycle of spiritual drift, oppression, and rescue. In Judges chapters 4 and 5, God interrupts that cycle by raising up Deborah—a prophetess, judge, and “Mother in Israel.”

At a time when Israel was paralyzed by fear and dominated by a powerful enemy with 900 iron chariots, Deborah listened to God, spoke with prophetic clarity, and stepped boldly into leadership. Her authority was not rooted in position or power, but in her closeness to God. From beneath the palm tree to the battlefield, Deborah’s faith was not theoretical—it was active and obedient.

This message explores how Deborah’s willingness to say yes to God changed the environment, emboldened hesitant leaders, and led an entire nation into victory. Through her story, we are reminded that obedience opens the door for God to move, courage flows from His Spirit, and faithfulness—especially when the road feels abandoned—brings lasting fruit.

Deborah’s legacy challenges us to examine our own lives:

Where is God asking us to say yes?

What “iron chariots” have intimidated us into silence?

And are we willing to stand firm until the song of victory is sung?

As we learn from Deborah—and from the unlikely victory God brought through Jael—we are reminded that God uses what is available, not what seems impressive. When His people listen, obey, and act in faith, He turns fear into freedom and despair into deliverance.