Courage Confidence & Conviction: Christianity Today

Courage and Conviction: The Story of Jael

The tale of Jael, who drove a tent peg through the head of Sisera, is one of the most striking accounts of courage and decisive action in the Bible. This story is found in Judges 4:21, which states: “Then Jael Heber’s wife took a nail of the tent, and took an hammer in her hand, and went softly unto him, and smote the nail into his temples, and fastened it into the ground: for he was fast asleep and weary. So, he died.”

The Context of Jael’s Action Jael’s act was not one of personal vendetta but of divine justice. Sisera was the commander of the Canaanite army under King Jabin, who had oppressed the Israelites for twenty years. God had promised deliverance through Deborah, the prophetess, and Barak, the Israelite commander. Jael’s deed was pivotal in fulfilling this promise.

Courage In The Face Of Adversity

Jael’s story exemplifies the courage required to act righteously in the face of adversity. The Bible speaks of courage as a virtue that Christians should embody. Deuteronomy 31:6 encourages believers to be strong and courageous, not fearing or being dismayed because the Lord goes with them. Similarly, 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.

It can serve to remind Christians that we should have courage and confidence serving God, and always align with His Word. It serves as an overt reminder that we have a spirit of courage and that we shouldn’t be afraid or be reticent about anything in our lives today. As long as we face it with the LORD, who goes before us in all aspects of our daily lives, and He is always faithful, and never wavers in His love for us.

Moral and Reflective Questions

• How can we, like Jael, find the courage to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult?
• What does Jael’s story teach us about the role of individuals in God’s plan for justice?
• In what ways can we apply the principles of courage and conviction in our own lives as modern-day Christians?

Justice and Righteousness

The Bible places a strong emphasis on justice and righteousness. Isaiah 1:17 urges us to learn to do well, seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, and plead for the widow. This call to justice is as relevant today as it was in the time of Jael. As Christians, we are called to stand up against oppression and to be instruments of God’s justice in the world.

Thoughts to Take Away

Jael’s story is a reminder that God uses ordinary people to achieve His extraordinary purposes. It challenges us to be ready to act when called upon, to be courageous in our convictions, and to trust in God’s justice. Let us carry this message in our hearts and live out our faith with courage and commitment.

“Dear Heavenly Father, we are inspired by the story of Jael, who showed remarkable courage and faith. May we too have the boldness to do Your will and to act justly in a world that often walks in darkness. Give us the strength to be Your hands and feet, serving those in need and standing up for righteousness, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”