Who Amazes You?

Whisper of God
“When the princes in Israel take the lead, 
   when the people willingly offer themselves— 
   praise the LORD!
Judges 5:2 NIV

Observation
This is the beginning of Deborah's song. She led Israel as a one of the judges. When the people cried out because of the oppression of their enemies she instructed Barak to take 10,000 men to go out against them. He did so with the promise that she would go with them (but that's another part of the story).
After the victory Deborah sings this song of praise to the Lord. She in essence says when the princes or fighting men of Israel advance - when they offer themselves to take their stand against the enemy - THEN PRAISE THE LORD!
Barak went to battle but was intimidated. His confidence was not so much in God but Deborah. Her presence encouraged him to go to battle, but what help could she give? Deborah knew that the victory was possible only with the help of the Lord.  Deborah sang like David: "Contend, LORD, with those who contend with me . . . . Say to me, 'I am your salvation.'"


Real Life Application
My confidence must be in God who amazes me for only He will strengthen me to stand strong against those who would oppose me.

Day's Prayer
Lord Jesus I need your strength today to not be like Barak. No one but You can bring me the victory. May my confidence be in You; I don't want to trust the wisdom or strength of even the people who love me. Nor do I want to try to impress others with what I might think I can do. I am powerless, but You are strong. Today I will stand and give you praise regardless of what may come my way for You are my salvation! You amaze me!