When leaders lead in Israel, When the people willingly offer themselves, Bless the Lord!
Judges 5:2 NKJV
This verse opens the Song of Deborah, a hymn of praise after Israel’s victory over Sisera and the Canaanite army. It celebrates two truths that work together: the courage of godly leadership and the willingness of God’s people to follow. Both point to the glory of the Lord.
The phrase, “when leaders lead in Israel,” shows the need for strong and faithful leaders. Deborah, a prophetess and judge, rose during a time of oppression and spiritual decline. She trusted God’s word and guided the nation with courage. Moses showed the same spirit. When he obeyed God’s call, the people followed him, and the Red Sea opened before them (Exodus 14). In contrast, when leadership was absent, Israel drifted into sin. Judges 17:6 says, “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” Without guidance, chaos ruled.
The next phrase reads, “when the people willingly offer themselves.” Leadership means little without a response from the people. Deborah’s call worked only because the people stepped forward to fight. God’s work advances when His people offer themselves freely. In Nehemiah’s day, men and women rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls because they chose to work together (Nehemiah 3). The Macedonian churches did the same in the New Testament. They gave beyond their means, not out of duty, but out of joy (2 Corinthians 8:3-4). Willing hearts move the mission of God forward.
The verse ends with, “bless the Lord!” This shows the true focus. Godly leadership and service are not about human praise. They exist to glorify God. Deborah knew that the victory belonged to the Lord, not to them. Psalm 115:1 says it clearly: “Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but to Your name be glory, because of Your mercy, because of Your truth.” Leaders may rise and people may serve, but the power and the honour belong to God alone.
Judges 5:2 speaks to us today. God raises leaders in every generation. Some lead families, some guide churches, and others serve in workplaces or communities. At the same time, He calls His people to respond with willing hearts. Together, leaders and followers can bring glory to God. When courage meets willingness, the result is revival, blessing, and testimony that lifts His name high.
Living It Out
God has called you a leader in one way or another. It may be in your home, in your work, or in your church. The question is simple: Will you willingly offer yourself for Christ? The God who guided Deborah and stirred the people of Israel is the same God who calls you today. If you lead with courage and serve with a willing heart, your life will become a song that blesses the Lord.