Podcasts about Barak

When life feels impossible, FAITH changes everything. In this message, we see how Deborah and Barak's obedience put Sisera's army on the run, how prophets raised the dead through bold faith, and how believers throughout history stood strong in persecution. Whatever enemy you're facing—fear, shame, addiction, division—BY FAITH you can overcome. Hebrews 11 reminds us: without faith it is impossible to please God. But with faith, nothing is impossible. For more information about Bishop Gallardo or Lifegate Church visit www.briangallardo.com or www.lifegatekc.org.

Axios global affairs correspondent Barak Ravid on Gaza, Israel, the broader Mideast and U.S. two years after the October 7 attacks. Ravid's 2023 book is Trump's Peace: The Abraham Accords And The Reshaping Of The Middle East.

This week I have two stories for you for Sukkot and Simchat Torah and then stories from previous years. The first reveals what happens when a rabbi finds the purest joy in the darkest of places, and the second follows a man whose broken heart leads to an impossible healing through the power of a tzaddik's dance. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/when-darkness-becomes-light To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

In this powerful message, we dive into the truth that emotion does not hear reason—but faith hears God. From Deborah and Barak putting entire armies to flight (Judges 4) to prophets raising the dead (1 Kings 17, 2 Kings 4), we see that faith puts the enemy on the run, faith raises dead things back to life, and faith gives us the strength to keep standing even through suffering and persecution (Hebrews 11). Whatever enemy you're facing—fear, panic, addiction, shame, unbelief—by faith, you can overcome it. For more information about Bishop Gallardo or Lifegate Church visit www.briangallardo.com or www.lifegatekc.org.

Ehud Barak's ties to Jeffrey Epstein represent one of the most controversial chapters in the former Israeli prime minister's career, casting a shadow that has persisted for years. Barak was photographed entering Epstein's Manhattan townhouse and was linked to Epstein socially and financially, including through investments in Epstein-related ventures. Though Barak has insisted that his relationship with Epstein was purely professional and that he was unaware of Epstein's criminal activities, the optics are damning. His repeated presence at Epstein's properties, along with the fact that he continued associating with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction for soliciting sex from a minor, has fueled deep skepticism about the nature of their connection. Critics argue that such proximity to a convicted sex offender reflects either profound naivety or willful disregard, either of which damages Barak's credibility.The defense Barak has offered—that he only sought Epstein for networking and business opportunities—rings hollow for many observers, especially given the well-documented patterns of high-profile figures rationalizing their ties to Epstein under the guise of “philanthropy” or “investment.” Barak's acknowledgment that he stayed overnight at one of Epstein's residences only compounds suspicion, leaving open troubling questions about what he knew and when. Even if Barak never participated in or witnessed criminal acts, his willingness to engage with Epstein after his status as a sex offender was public knowledge has led many to view the relationship as reckless at best, complicit at worst. For a former head of state, the threshold for ethical conduct is much higher, and his association with Epstein remains an indelible blemish on his legacy.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

Ehud Barak's ties to Jeffrey Epstein represent one of the most controversial chapters in the former Israeli prime minister's career, casting a shadow that has persisted for years. Barak was photographed entering Epstein's Manhattan townhouse and was linked to Epstein socially and financially, including through investments in Epstein-related ventures. Though Barak has insisted that his relationship with Epstein was purely professional and that he was unaware of Epstein's criminal activities, the optics are damning. His repeated presence at Epstein's properties, along with the fact that he continued associating with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction for soliciting sex from a minor, has fueled deep skepticism about the nature of their connection. Critics argue that such proximity to a convicted sex offender reflects either profound naivety or willful disregard, either of which damages Barak's credibility.The defense Barak has offered—that he only sought Epstein for networking and business opportunities—rings hollow for many observers, especially given the well-documented patterns of high-profile figures rationalizing their ties to Epstein under the guise of “philanthropy” or “investment.” Barak's acknowledgment that he stayed overnight at one of Epstein's residences only compounds suspicion, leaving open troubling questions about what he knew and when. Even if Barak never participated in or witnessed criminal acts, his willingness to engage with Epstein after his status as a sex offender was public knowledge has led many to view the relationship as reckless at best, complicit at worst. For a former head of state, the threshold for ethical conduct is much higher, and his association with Epstein remains an indelible blemish on his legacy.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Güney Kıbrıs Rum Yönetimi, İsrail'den aldığı Barak MX hava savunma sistemlerinin ikinci partisini teslim aldı. Sistemler Limasol Limanı üzerinden iç bölgelere sevk edildi. GKRY basınında yer alan haberlere göre sistem, Limasol Limanı üzerinden Ada'ya ulaştırıldı ve güvenlik önlemleri altında iç bölgelere sevk edildi. Sosyal medyada yayınlanan videolarda askeri araçların limandan ayrıldığı görülüyor.

Ehud Barak's ties to Jeffrey Epstein represent one of the most controversial chapters in the former Israeli prime minister's career, casting a shadow that has persisted for years. Barak was photographed entering Epstein's Manhattan townhouse and was linked to Epstein socially and financially, including through investments in Epstein-related ventures. Though Barak has insisted that his relationship with Epstein was purely professional and that he was unaware of Epstein's criminal activities, the optics are damning. His repeated presence at Epstein's properties, along with the fact that he continued associating with Epstein even after Epstein's 2008 conviction for soliciting sex from a minor, has fueled deep skepticism about the nature of their connection. Critics argue that such proximity to a convicted sex offender reflects either profound naivety or willful disregard, either of which damages Barak's credibility.The defense Barak has offered—that he only sought Epstein for networking and business opportunities—rings hollow for many observers, especially given the well-documented patterns of high-profile figures rationalizing their ties to Epstein under the guise of “philanthropy” or “investment.” Barak's acknowledgment that he stayed overnight at one of Epstein's residences only compounds suspicion, leaving open troubling questions about what he knew and when. Even if Barak never participated in or witnessed criminal acts, his willingness to engage with Epstein after his status as a sex offender was public knowledge has led many to view the relationship as reckless at best, complicit at worst. For a former head of state, the threshold for ethical conduct is much higher, and his association with Epstein remains an indelible blemish on his legacy.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get behind our through the Bible project. Read more here Project23. Our text today is Judges 5:13–18. “Then down marched the remnant of the noble; the people of the LORD marched down for me against the mighty. From Ephraim their root they marched down into the valley, following you, Benjamin, with your kinsmen; from Machir marched down the commanders, and from Zebulun those who bear the lieutenant's staff; the princes of Issachar came with Deborah, and Issachar faithful to Barak; into the valley they rushed at his heels. Among the clans of Reuben there were great searchings of heart. Why did you sit still among the sheepfolds, to hear the whistling for the flocks? Among the clans of Reuben there were great searchings of heart. Gilead stayed beyond the Jordan; and Dan, why did he stay with the ships? Asher sat still at the coast of the sea, staying by his landings. Zebulun is a people who risked their lives to the death; Naphtali, too, on the heights of the field.” — Judges 5:13-18 Deborah draws a clear line between two groups. Group one: On one side are the tribes who stepped up — Ephraim, Benjamin, Machir, Zebulun, Issachar, Naphtali. They marched into the valley without hesitation, shoulder to shoulder, risking everything for God's mission. Group two: On the other side are those who stayed home — Reuben, Gilead, Dan, Asher. Reuben stalled in “great searchings of heart,” paralyzed by indecision. Gilead stayed put across the river. Dan clung to his ships. Asher kept his feet planted on the shoreline. The difference wasn't ability. It wasn't opportunity. It was willingness. In every generation, God calls His people to step up — but not everyone answers. Some run toward the fight. Others cling to the familiar. Some seize the moment. Others think about it until the moment passes. When God calls, the greatest tragedy isn't weakness — it's unwillingness. The tribes who stayed home had the same God, the same history, and the same opportunity as those who stepped up. But they missed their moment because they chose comfort over courage. You and I face the same choice. God's mission is still moving forward. The only question is — will you march into the valley, or watch from the shoreline? ASK THIS: In what areas of life has God been calling you to step up? What “great searchings of heart” have delayed your obedience? Whose courage could grow because you decided to step forward? How do you want to be remembered when God's story is told? DO THIS: Identify one step of obedience you've been delaying. Take it today — even if it feels risky — and trust God with the outcome. PRAY THIS: Lord, keep me from standing on the sidelines when You call. Give me the courage to step up, and the faith to follow You into the fight. Amen. PLAY THIS: "I Will Go."

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Pete Lang from Upland, CA. Thank you for your partnership with us through Project23. Your commitment is helping deliver God's Word with clarity and conviction. This one's for you. Our text today is Judges 5:9–12. “My heart goes out to the commanders of Israel who offered themselves willingly among the people. Bless the LORD. Tell of it, you who ride on white donkeys, you who sit on rich carpets, and you who walk by the way. To the sound of musicians at the watering places, there they repeat the righteous triumphs of the LORD, the righteous triumphs of his villagers in Israel. Then down to the gates marched the people of the LORD. ‘Awake, awake, Deborah! Awake, awake, break out in a song! Arise, Barak, lead away your captives, O son of Abinoam.'” — Judges 5:9-12 The song of Deborah shifts here from memory to momentum. She looks across Israel and sees leaders who stepped forward and people who volunteered without hesitation. And she blesses the Lord for it. But she doesn't stop there. She calls everyone — the wealthy (“you who ride on white donkeys”), the influential (“you who sit on rich carpets”), and the everyday traveler — to tell the story of God's triumph. Then her voice sharpens. Twice she says, “Awake, awake!” And then, “Arise!” It's the language of urgency. The sound of a spiritual trumpet blast. “Awake” means shake off the slumber, remember who you are, and recall why you're here. “Arise” means stand up, step forward, and move in the direction of God's call. Every believer faces two temptations after God moves powerfully — to relax into comfort or to retreat into passivity. But God's victories aren't the end of the mission. They're the launching pad for the next one. “Awake” is the inner shift — the moment your heart snaps out of distraction and into readiness. “Arise” is the outer step — the choice to act on what God has stirred in you. If you're sleeping through your calling, you're missing the reason you were rescued. Deborah didn't tell Barak to enjoy the win. She told him to get moving. God's Kingdom advances when His people stay awake and keep rising. Maybe your battle is spiritual laziness. Maybe it's fear. Maybe it's comfort. Whatever it is, you can't follow Jesus while hitting the snooze button on His call. ASK THIS: Where in your life is God calling you to “awake” from spiritual complacency? What's one concrete step you can take today to “arise” into obedience? Who around you needs the courage that will come from your obedience? How can you avoid the trap of settling into comfort after a spiritual victory? DO THIS: Say the words “Awake and arise” out loud this morning — then take one action that matches them before the day ends. PRAY THIS: Lord, don't let me drift into spiritual sleep. Wake me up to Your call, and give me the courage to rise and follow You into whatever comes next. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Awake My Soul."

We have an opportunity of influence while we alive. How long will our legacy last once we are gone.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Martin Williams from Waldorf, MD. Thank you for your partnership with us through Project23. Your commitment is helping deliver God's Word with clarity and conviction. This one's for you. Our text today is Judges 5:4-5. “LORD, when you went out from Seir, when you marched from the region of Edom, the earth trembled and the heavens dropped, yes, the clouds dropped water. The mountains quaked before the LORD, even Sinai before the LORD, the God of Israel.” — Judges 5:4-5 When life shakes you, do you stop and recall God's resume? In the middle of their victory song, Deborah and Barak pause to look back — way back — to Sinai. They remember the day God's presence shook the mountain, rattled the earth, and split the skies with rain. Why bring this up now? Because they're rehearsing His track record. This is God's resume — full of impossible victories and undeniable power. Every quake, every storm, every miracle is a line item proving He's the same God today as He was then. When God shows up, mountains move. Clouds burst. Creation bows. And remembering that changes the way you face the next battle. We often approach new challenges as if God has never done anything for us before. But your faith needs His resume on file. If He could split seas, bring down walls, send fire from heaven, and turn your heart toward Him, what makes today any different? The God who shook Sinai can shake your situation. The God who marched through Edom can march into your mess. Leaders and followers alike need to remember: God's past performance is the best predictor of His present power. ASK THIS: What's one “Sinai moment” from your past you need to recall today? How does remembering God's victories change the way you face new battles? Where have you been tempted to forget His track record? How can you make recalling God's resume a habit? DO THIS: Write down three major “resume items” from your life where God moved in power. Keep them where you can see them when the next battle comes. PRAY THIS: Lord, I praise You for Your flawless track record. Help me recall Your resume when fear creeps in, and remind me that You've never lost a case. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Same God."

The book of Judges reveals a cycle Israel couldn't escape—idolatry, sin, oppression, crying out, and God's deliverance. Judges 4 drops us right into that cycle, where Israel has been crushed for twenty years under the iron might of Sisera's army. But when they cry out, God responds in an unexpected way—raising up Deborah, a prophetess and judge, to lead His people. Alongside her stands Barak, who insists he won't go into battle without God's presence, and Jael, an ordinary woman whose bold act fulfills God's promise. Through them, God proves His victory is not just physical but spiritual. While Sisera trusted in iron chariots and the storm-god Baal, Yahweh turned the battlefield into a floodplain, showing His power over both armies and idols. The sermon reminds us that God doesn't merely rescue us from suffering—He smashes the idols that keep us bound. Just as Israel was freed not only from Sisera but also from the false gods of Canaan, we too are saved by Christ from both our circumstances and the deeper spiritual chains of sin. God still works through unexpected, ordinary people to bring extraordinary freedom, and He offers complete salvation through Jesus, the ultimate Deliverer.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Michael Corbly from West Chester, OH. Thank you for your partnership with us through Project23. Your commitment is helping deliver God's Word with clarity and conviction. This one's for you. Our text today is Judges 5:1–3. Then sang Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam on that day: “That the leaders took the lead in Israel, that the people offered themselves willingly, bless the LORD! Hear, O kings; give ear, O princes; to the LORD I will sing; I will make melody to the LORD, the God of Israel.” — Judges 5:1-3 When was the last time you saw a leader praise God before taking praise for a win? The battlefield dust hasn't even settled. The clanging swords are silent. Israel's enemies are scattered. And before anyone can draft a victory speech, Deborah and Barak break out in a song. This isn't casual background music. It's a public, God-centered anthem that shouts two things: Thank God for leaders who lead. Thank God for people who show up. It's a simple truth — leadership matters, but so does followership. Without both, God's purposes in Israel would've stalled. And here's the key: they didn't just acknowledge the human effort; they blessed the Lord. The victory belonged to Him from start to finish. We live in a culture quick to applaud human achievement and slow to give God the glory. Leaders often claim the credit. Followers sometimes forget who carried them through. But the rhythm of the Kingdom is different: leaders lead with humility, followers serve with willingness, and both make God the hero of the story. If you lead — lead in such a way that your first instinct after a win is to point up, not in. If you follow — do it with a willing spirit that makes God's work visible. When leaders lead and people willingly follow, God's name gets lifted higher, and the ripple of His glory moves farther. ASK THIS: When God has given you a victory, do you stop to praise Him before moving on? Are you more naturally a leader or a follower, and how can you honor God in that role? How can you cultivate willingness rather than reluctance in service to God? What's one leadership moment in your life where God got the glory instead of you? DO THIS: Today, thank one leader in your life for their godly influence — and let them know you're praying for their humility and courage. PRAY THIS: Father, thank You for leaders who lead and followers who serve with joy. Teach me to give You the glory in every win and to step willingly into the role You've given me. Amen. PLAY THIS: "All Glory."

In Judges 4-5, we meet Deborah, Barak, and Jael - three individuals who didn't wish for different circumstances but faithfully served God in their current roles. The result? God worked through their faithfulness to bring victory and 40 years of peace to Israel. Pastor Louis encouraged us to commit to faithfulness in the places God has planted us, not because our roles define us, but because we serve a faithful God who redeemed us through Christ.

The Book of Judges Ch. 4

In this sermon, guest preacher, NK, emphasises the importance of leaders taking the lead and people responding willingly, using Deborah and Barak as examples. He explains how we are called to work with Christ in liberating others from bondage to sin.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Support our mission to teach every verse of the Bible. Read more here: Project23 Our text today is Judges 4:23-24: So on that day God subdued Jabin the king of Canaan before the people of Israel. And the hand of the people of Israel pressed harder and harder against Jabin the king of Canaan, until they destroyed Jabin king of Canaan. — Judges 4:23-24 When God gives the victory, do you hand Him the glory—or do you try to keep a piece for yourself? After Jael's shocking strike, you might think the spotlight belongs to her—or to Deborah for her prophecy—or to Barak for leading the army. But Scripture doesn't allow that. It says plainly: “On that day God subdued Jabin the king of Canaan.” Yes, Barak fought. Yes, Jael struck. Yes, Deborah led. But it was God who delivered. He orchestrated the storm, routed the army, and fulfilled the prophecy. The text ends by making sure we know the truth: the glory belongs to Him, not them. This is the battlefield of the heart: who gets the glory? God may use your obedience, your courage, even your “tent pegs”—but the glory is His alone. And here's the danger: every time God gives you a win, your flesh will want to steal the credit. Pride whispers, “Look what you did.” But humility shouts, “Look what God has done!” If you take the glory, you rob God of what is rightfully His—and you set yourself up for a fall. Pride is a thief; humility is a shield. So fight hard. Step up with courage. But when the dust clears, drop the crown at His feet. Make it your mission to silence pride before it steals even a sliver of the glory that belongs only to God. ASK THIS: Where in my life am I tempted to take credit for what God has done? How do I usually respond when God gives me a victory—praise or pride? Who could I encourage by giving a testimony that points all glory back to Him? What practical step can I take to guard myself from stealing God's glory? DO THIS: Today, when you share a win or blessing in conversation, make sure you point directly to God as the One who made it possible. Don't keep a shred of the glory for yourself. PRAY THIS: Father, keep me from stealing Your glory. When You give victory, help me humbly give You all the credit, knowing it belongs to You alone. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Yours (Glory and Praise)."

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Support our mission to teach every verse of the Bible. Read more here: Project23 Our text today is Judges 4:21-22: But Jael the wife of Heber took a tent peg, and took a hammer in her hand. Then she went softly to him and drove the peg into his temple until it went down into the ground while he was lying fast asleep from weariness. So he died. And behold, as Barak was pursuing Sisera, Jael went out to meet him and said to him, “Come, and I will show you the man whom you are seeking.” So he went in to her tent, and there lay Sisera dead, with the tent peg in his temple. — Judges 4:21-22 What could God do with your ordinary tools if you had the courage to act? This is it—the moment Deborah had prophesied. Sisera, exhausted and convinced he was safe, falls asleep in Jael's tent. And Jael, an ordinary woman with no training in battle, picks up a tent peg and a hammer—the tools of her daily life—and strikes down the mighty commander of Canaan's army. When Barak finally arrives, Jael doesn't just point him to Sisera—she shows him the lifeless body. The prophecy is fulfilled. The honor goes not to Barak, but to an unlikely woman whose courage and obedience changed the course of history. Jael's story is a reminder: God uses unlikely people with ordinary tools to accomplish extraordinary victories. She didn't have a sword. She wasn't wearing armor. She used what she had, where she was, with bold faith. You may feel like you don't have much to offer—just a “tent peg” and a “hammer” in your daily life. But in God's hands, that's enough. Don't underestimate the impact of your simple obedience. The world doesn't need you to be the most powerful man in the room. It needs you to be the most willing. When others hesitated, Jael acted. And because she did, God's Word was fulfilled. ASK THIS: What ordinary “tent peg” has God put in my hand to use for His glory? Do I believe God can use me—even if I feel unqualified or overlooked? How might hesitation keep me from stepping into the role God is calling me to? What step of bold faith can I take today with the tools I already have? DO THIS: Take one “ordinary tool” in your life today—your time, a skill, a relationship—and use it intentionally for God's purposes. PRAY THIS: Lord, thank You for using unlikely people like Jael. Give me courage to act with what You've placed in my hands, trusting You for the outcome. Amen. PLAY THIS: "God of the Impossible."

This week I have two stories for you for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur and then stories from previous years. The first tells of a 13-year-old's midnight mission in a frozen labor camp that would change everything, and the second follows a holy man's desperate search that led to an encounter no one expected and then I have many stories from previous years! If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/the-gates-of-repentance-are-never-closed To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Support our mission to teach every verse of the Bible. Read more here: Project23 Our text today is Judges 4:11-16: Now Heber the Kenite had separated from the Kenites, the descendants of Hobab the father-in-law of Moses, and had pitched his tent as far away as the oak in Zaanannim, which is near Kedesh. When Sisera was told that Barak the son of Abinoam had gone up to Mount Tabor, Sisera called out all his chariots, 900 chariots of iron, and all the men who were with him, from Harosheth-hagoyim to the river Kishon. 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?” So Barak went down from Mount Tabor with 10,000 men following him. And the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army before Barak by the edge of the sword. And Sisera got down from his chariot and fled away on foot. And Barak pursued the chariots and the army to Harosheth-hagoyim, and all the army of Sisera fell by the edge of the sword; not a man was left. — Judges 4:11-16 Would you fight differently if you knew God had already won the battle? The tension rises. Sisera rolls out with 900 iron chariots—the tanks of the ancient world. On paper, Israel doesn't stand a chance. But Deborah's words cut through the fear: “Up! For this is the day the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Does not the Lord go out before you?” Notice that—has given. Past tense. This wasn't a battle to see who would win. It was a victory God had already secured. Then the Lord moves. A sudden storm (see Judges 5:20–21) floods the Kishon River, bogging down the chariots. The unstoppable enemy is stuck in the mud. Barak finally charges, but the truth is clear: the victory belonged to God before Barak ever lifted a sword. This is the secret of faith—you're not fighting for victory; you're fighting from victory. Barak hesitated, but God had already won the battle. The outcome was never in doubt. Maybe you're staring down your own “900 iron chariots”—that overwhelming challenge that looks impossible. Remember this: God has already secured the victory through Christ. The cross and the empty tomb prove it. Your job isn't to muster superhuman strength. It's to rise when God says, “Up!” and trust that he's already gone before you. Hesitation may rob you of joy and honor, but it will never undo the fact that God wins. The only question is—will you step into the victory He's already secured? ASK THIS: What “iron chariots” look unbeatable in my life right now? How would I act differently if I truly believed God had already won the battle? Where am I hesitating when I should be stepping into God's promised victory? How can I remind myself daily that I'm fighting from victory, not for it? DO THIS: When fear tempts you today, declare aloud: “This is a battle God has already won.” Then step into the next act of obedience He's calling you to. PRAY THIS: Lord, thank You that the victory is already Yours. Help me rise when You call, trusting that You've gone before me and secured the battle. Amen. PLAY THIS: "You've Already Won."

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Support our mission to teach every verse of the Bible. Read more here: Project23 Our text today is Judges 4:6-10: She sent and summoned Barak the son of Abinoam from Kedesh-naphtali and said to him, “Has not the Lord, the God of Israel, commanded you, ‘Go, gather your men at Mount Tabor, taking 10,000 from the people of Naphtali and the people of Zebulun. And I will draw out Sisera, the general of Jabin's army, to meet you by the river Kishon with his chariots and his troops, and I will give him into your hand'?” Barak said to her, “If you will go with me, I will go, but if you will not go with me, I will not go.” And she said, “I will surely go with you. Nevertheless, the road on which you are going will not lead to your glory, for the Lord will sell Sisera into the hand of a woman.” Then Deborah arose and went with Barak to Kedesh. And Barak called out Zebulun and Naphtali to Kedesh, and 10,000 men went up at his heels, and Deborah went up with him. — Judges 4:6-10 What blessings slip through our fingers when we hesitate instead of acting in faith? God had already spoken: “Go, gather your men… I will give him into your hand.” The outcome was certain. Victory was promised. But Barak hesitated. Instead of trusting God's word, he leaned on Deborah: “If you go with me, I will go.” He wanted her presence more than God's promise. Deborah agreed—but warned him: the glory of victory wouldn't go to him. God would hand Sisera over to a woman instead. Barak went to battle, but the lesson was clear: hesitation comes at a cost. God still wins—but when we pause at the edge of obedience, we may miss the full blessing of leading boldly. This is where too many believers get stuck. God calls. The promise is sure. But instead of stepping out in full faith, we hesitate. We stall. We wait for more signs, more reassurance, more backup. Barak still fought, but his hesitation meant he lost the honor of leading with decisive courage. Deborah had to fill the gap. Here's the challenge: don't wait for someone else to carry the weight God put on your shoulders. God's victory doesn't depend on you—but your faithfulness does. Step up without hesitation. Don't miss the blessing because you lingered when God said, "Go." ASK THIS: Where am I hesitating when God has already spoken clearly? What fears keep me from taking the step God is calling me to take? Who might be carrying weight right now because I've delayed obedience? How can I step forward today in faith instead of waiting for more certainty? DO THIS: Pinpoint one area where you've been hesitating. Stop stalling—take one clear step of obedience today. PRAY THIS: Lord, forgive me for hesitating when you've already spoken. Give me the courage to step forward in faith, trusting your promise more than my fear. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Made For More."

Welcome to Dennis Prager’s Timeless Wisdom. Each Monday through Saturday, you’ll hear some of Dennis’s best lectures, talks, and series—with brief commercial breaks. To get the ad-free version of this podcast, and to access the full library of lectures, talks, and shows, visit dennisprager.com. On Today’s Show: Dennis debates liberal rabbi Michael Lerner on many of today’s important issues including their very different views on the failure of Barak’s offer (negotiated by President Clinton) to bring a lasting peace to Israel; what the next generation of Jews must do in order to remain Jewish and whether or not the U.S should invade Iraq and overthrow Saddam Hussein.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we explore the faith of a man many have never even heard of - Barak. The military commander during the time of Deborah the judge and prophetess, Barak's faith was imperfect, as was every person's faith we have studied so far in Hebrews 11. In Barak's case, we get to see an example of faith that moves forward, even when afraid. Fear and cowardice are two very different things, as we will soon see, today, on Rinse and Repeat!

This week, Pastor John continued our Unafraid series with a sermon from Judges 4–5, showing us through the story of Deborah and Barak how God works through surrendered hearts. In all seasons of life, God leads us step by step and invites us to trust in His sovereignty and walk faithfully in willingness.

In this episode of Occupied Thoughts, FMEP Fellow Ahmed Moor speaks with Daniel Levy, President of the U.S./Middle East Project (USMEP). They discuss Levy's argument that the way that Israel withdrew Israeli settlements from Gaza in 2005 set the stage for today's genocide; as Levy put it in a recent +972 Magazine piece, the current Israeli paradigm is "not just separating from the Palestinians, relegated to shrinking Bantustans, but annihilating and erasing them." Moor and Levy also discuss the impact of Israel's attacks in Qatar this week both in the near and longterm, the need for Netanyahu to formally deny Israeli involvement in the assassination of Charlie Kirk, and shifting political approaches to Israel/Palestine.  Daniel Levy is the President of the U.S./Middle East Project (USMEP), which emphasizes the Palestine-Israel issue alongside regional conflicts, trends and geopolitics. From 2012 to 2016, Levy was Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the European Council on Foreign Relations. Prior to that he was a senior Fellow and Director of the New America Foundation's Middle East Taskforce in Washington D.C. and a Senior Fellow at The Century Foundation in New York. Levy was a Senior Advisor in the Israeli Prime Minister's Office and to Justice Minister Yossi Beilin during the Government of Ehud Barak (1999-2001). He was a member of the official Israeli delegation to the Israel/Palestine peace talks at Taba under Barak and at Oslo B under Yitzhak Rabin (1994-95). Levy is a founder and Advisory Board member of Diaspora Alliance (combatting antisemitism and its conflation), a Council Member of the ECFR, and serves on the board of the European Middle East Project. He is a former Trustee of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund in New York and of the New Israel Fund, a co-founder of J Street, and a founding Editor of the Middle East Channel at foreignpolicy.com.  Ahmed Moor is a Palestinian-American writer born in Gaza and a 2025 Fellow at FMEP. He is an advisory board member of the US Campaign for Palestinian rights, co-editor of After Zionism (Saqi Books) and is currently writing a book about Palestine. He also currently serves on the board of the Independence Media Foundation. His work has been published in The Guardian, The London Review of Books, The Nation, and elsewhere. He earned a BA at the University of Pennsylvania and an MPP at Harvard University. Original music by Jalal Yaquoub.

This week I have two stories for you for Chai Elul. The first involves an unexpected wedding guest and a secret message that changed everything, and the second follows a brilliant young man on a journey that would complete centuries of spiritual work. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/the-cossacks-secret-message To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

In today's sermon from Rev. Vicki Harrison, she walks us through the powerful and often overlooked story of Deborah, found in Judges 4 and 5. As part of our What a Mess series, we explore how God raises up unlikely leaders—people the world may never choose—to accomplish His purposes in the midst of chaos. Pastor Vicki opens with a reality check: the time of the Judges was marked by confusion and rebellion, a time when “everyone did what was right in their own eyes.” Sound familiar? Yet even in the disorder, God was still listening, still calling, and still delivering. And in this case, He chooses Deborah—a woman, prophet, and judge—to lead Israel with bold faith. We learn that Deborah doesn't just sit in authority—she acts. She calls Barak to battle, encourages him to trust God's promise, and even goes with him when he hesitates. Her leadership is marked by courage, obedience, and worship. After victory, Deborah sings a song of praise, making it clear that the true hero is God alone. Throughout the sermon, Pastor Vicki invites us to reflect on some deeply personal questions: Do we believe God still hears our cries? Are we ignoring a call because we feel unqualified or unseen? Are we giving God the credit for the victories He brings? And most importantly—how does Deborah's story point us to Jesus, the ultimate deliverer who leads, saves, and sings over His people? If you've ever felt unqualified, invisible, or overwhelmed by your own mess, Deborah's story reminds us: God sees, God calls, and God delivers. Want to go deeper? Join a Community Group to process the message with others, or learn more about how we Grow Faith together at New Hope.

This week's learning is dedicated by Medinah Korn in loving memory of her mother, Rosalie Katchen, Shoshana Raizl bat Avraham Yehoshua ve-Baila Toibe, z"l, on her 25th yahrzeit. She left a profound legacy for her family and many devoted friends who continue to learn from her to this day. Yehi zichra baruch. Today's daf is sponsored by David and Mitzi Geffen in loving memory of David's mother Ethel Petegorsky Geffen, on her 21st yarhzeit. She was devoted to her family and the Jewish community, volunteering on many synagogue and community committees and projects. Her two sons made aliyah to Israel and her daughter has had a long career in service of the American Jewish community. Today's daf is sponsored by Ayla Ginat in loving memory of Barak ben Lipa and Shlomit. If the Beit Din realized they made an erroneous ruling, but an individual is unaware and transgresses based on their original ruling, do they need to bring an individual sacrifice? While the Msihna brought two opinions, a braita brings four. Rabbi Meir obligates the individual to bring a sin offering, Rabbi Shimon exempts, Rabbi Elazar and Sumchus view it as a case of doubt, but Rabbi Elazar obligates in a provisional guilt offering, while Sumchus does not. Rabbi Zeira and Rabbi Yossi bar Avin bring examples of other cases of doubt to explain the difference in approach between Rabbi Elazar and Sumchus – to what extent do we expect the individual to be aware that the rabbis corrected their mistake? Rava explains the disagreement in the Mishna between Ben Azai and Rabbi Akiva to be regarding a case where the court realized their mistake on the day that the individual in question was still in the city but preparing to leave. As in the previously mentioned debate, the question is to what extent the individual is expected to be aware of the court’s reversal of their decision while they are busy involved in their upcoming travel plans.  The Mishna taught that the case of a communal sin offering is only in a case where the court’s erroneous ruling was to uproot part of a mitzva, not a complete mitzva. A braita brings one derivation, Chizkiya has another, and Rav Ashi brings a third. Rav Yehuda says in the name of Shmuel that the ruling has to relate to something that the Saducees do not agree with, i.e. something rabbinic in origin and not able to be understood from the simple reading of the verses in the Torah. The reason for this is simple – if it is clear from the Torah and the court rules otherwise, and the people follow, this cannot be understood as unwitting, as it is closer to an intentional violation. Three difficulties are raised against Rav Yehuda from the examples brought in the Mishna, but each one is resolved. Rav Yosef asks: If the court rules there is no prohibition to plow on Shabbat, is that considered uprooting a complete mitzva or a partial one? The Gemara tries to answer the question by deriving it from cases in our Mishna, but is not able to. Rabbi Zeira asks if the court rules that there is no Shabbat observance in the Shmita year, is that considered uprooting a complete mitzva or a partial one? Ravina brings a source from a false prophet to answer that it is considered a partial mitzva, and they would be obligated to bring a communal sin offering.  There are several cases where there is an issue with judges – either disqualified judges, or the head judge was not there, where there is no communal sin offering, as the case is considered closer to intentional.    

This week's learning is dedicated by Medinah Korn in loving memory of her mother, Rosalie Katchen, Shoshana Raizl bat Avraham Yehoshua ve-Baila Toibe, z"l, on her 25th yahrzeit. She left a profound legacy for her family and many devoted friends who continue to learn from her to this day. Yehi zichra baruch. Today's daf is sponsored by David and Mitzi Geffen in loving memory of David's mother Ethel Petegorsky Geffen, on her 21st yarhzeit. She was devoted to her family and the Jewish community, volunteering on many synagogue and community committees and projects. Her two sons made aliyah to Israel and her daughter has had a long career in service of the American Jewish community. Today's daf is sponsored by Ayla Ginat in loving memory of Barak ben Lipa and Shlomit. If the Beit Din realized they made an erroneous ruling, but an individual is unaware and transgresses based on their original ruling, do they need to bring an individual sacrifice? While the Msihna brought two opinions, a braita brings four. Rabbi Meir obligates the individual to bring a sin offering, Rabbi Shimon exempts, Rabbi Elazar and Sumchus view it as a case of doubt, but Rabbi Elazar obligates in a provisional guilt offering, while Sumchus does not. Rabbi Zeira and Rabbi Yossi bar Avin bring examples of other cases of doubt to explain the difference in approach between Rabbi Elazar and Sumchus – to what extent do we expect the individual to be aware that the rabbis corrected their mistake? Rava explains the disagreement in the Mishna between Ben Azai and Rabbi Akiva to be regarding a case where the court realized their mistake on the day that the individual in question was still in the city but preparing to leave. As in the previously mentioned debate, the question is to what extent the individual is expected to be aware of the court’s reversal of their decision while they are busy involved in their upcoming travel plans.  The Mishna taught that the case of a communal sin offering is only in a case where the court’s erroneous ruling was to uproot part of a mitzva, not a complete mitzva. A braita brings one derivation, Chizkiya has another, and Rav Ashi brings a third. Rav Yehuda says in the name of Shmuel that the ruling has to relate to something that the Saducees do not agree with, i.e. something rabbinic in origin and not able to be understood from the simple reading of the verses in the Torah. The reason for this is simple – if it is clear from the Torah and the court rules otherwise, and the people follow, this cannot be understood as unwitting, as it is closer to an intentional violation. Three difficulties are raised against Rav Yehuda from the examples brought in the Mishna, but each one is resolved. Rav Yosef asks: If the court rules there is no prohibition to plow on Shabbat, is that considered uprooting a complete mitzva or a partial one? The Gemara tries to answer the question by deriving it from cases in our Mishna, but is not able to. Rabbi Zeira asks if the court rules that there is no Shabbat observance in the Shmita year, is that considered uprooting a complete mitzva or a partial one? Ravina brings a source from a false prophet to answer that it is considered a partial mitzva, and they would be obligated to bring a communal sin offering.  There are several cases where there is an issue with judges – either disqualified judges, or the head judge was not there, where there is no communal sin offering, as the case is considered closer to intentional.    

This week I have three stories for you. The first is about a Holocaust survivor and the Tosher Rebbe's extraordinary wisdom, the second about a father's unwavering faith in his son, and the third shares memories of my teacher Reb Sholom z"l on his yahrzeit 10th of Elul. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/the-rebbe-would-tell-you-where-you-needed-to-be To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

We're joined by Matthew Petti to talk about his new article in Reason Magazine (https://reason.com/2025/08/27/inside-jeffrey-epsteins-spy-industry-connections/) on Epstein and Ehud Barak's spyware. We plow through a tranche of emails and talk Russians, Thiel, Israeli spyware companies, Noam Chomsky, and much more. UPDATE: Immediately after recording, DDoSecrets made the emails publicly available. Hit the tip line: (646) 801-1129 | tips@trueanon.com Discover more episodes at podcast.trueanon.com

In the final years of his life, Jeffrey Epstein attempted to reinvent himself as a player in the surveillance and security-tech industry. Newly leaked emails from Ehud Barak's inbox show Epstein's interest in Reporty Homeland Security (now Carbyne) and his attempts to build ties with figures like Peter Thiel, former Israeli intelligence officials, and even individuals connected to Vladimir Putin's inner circle. Epstein used these connections to push into Silicon Valley through funds such as Valar Ventures and Founders Fund, while simultaneously promoting himself as a bridge between high-tech innovation, private wealth, and the geopolitics of surveillance.The leaks also reveal Epstein's maneuvering in Russia, where he connected Barak with Sergey Belyakov and presented himself as a nonpolitical facilitator able to skirt sanctions and open doors to oligarch networks. He circulated articles on cyberwarfare, emergency management, and Israeli Unit 8200 to maintain relevance in the intelligence conversation. Collectively, these documents portray Epstein as more than just a disgraced financier—he was actively embedding himself in the global spy-tech ecosystem right up until his downfall.to  contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Inside Jeffrey Epstein's spy industry connections

In the final years of his life, Jeffrey Epstein attempted to reinvent himself as a player in the surveillance and security-tech industry. Newly leaked emails from Ehud Barak's inbox show Epstein's interest in Reporty Homeland Security (now Carbyne) and his attempts to build ties with figures like Peter Thiel, former Israeli intelligence officials, and even individuals connected to Vladimir Putin's inner circle. Epstein used these connections to push into Silicon Valley through funds such as Valar Ventures and Founders Fund, while simultaneously promoting himself as a bridge between high-tech innovation, private wealth, and the geopolitics of surveillance.The leaks also reveal Epstein's maneuvering in Russia, where he connected Barak with Sergey Belyakov and presented himself as a nonpolitical facilitator able to skirt sanctions and open doors to oligarch networks. He circulated articles on cyberwarfare, emergency management, and Israeli Unit 8200 to maintain relevance in the intelligence conversation. Collectively, these documents portray Epstein as more than just a disgraced financier—he was actively embedding himself in the global spy-tech ecosystem right up until his downfall.to  contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Inside Jeffrey Epstein's spy industry connections

In the final years of his life, Jeffrey Epstein attempted to reinvent himself as a player in the surveillance and security-tech industry. Newly leaked emails from Ehud Barak's inbox show Epstein's interest in Reporty Homeland Security (now Carbyne) and his attempts to build ties with figures like Peter Thiel, former Israeli intelligence officials, and even individuals connected to Vladimir Putin's inner circle. Epstein used these connections to push into Silicon Valley through funds such as Valar Ventures and Founders Fund, while simultaneously promoting himself as a bridge between high-tech innovation, private wealth, and the geopolitics of surveillance.The leaks also reveal Epstein's maneuvering in Russia, where he connected Barak with Sergey Belyakov and presented himself as a nonpolitical facilitator able to skirt sanctions and open doors to oligarch networks. He circulated articles on cyberwarfare, emergency management, and Israeli Unit 8200 to maintain relevance in the intelligence conversation. Collectively, these documents portray Epstein as more than just a disgraced financier—he was actively embedding himself in the global spy-tech ecosystem right up until his downfall.to  contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Inside Jeffrey Epstein's spy industry connectionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

In the final years of his life, Jeffrey Epstein attempted to reinvent himself as a player in the surveillance and security-tech industry. Newly leaked emails from Ehud Barak's inbox show Epstein's interest in Reporty Homeland Security (now Carbyne) and his attempts to build ties with figures like Peter Thiel, former Israeli intelligence officials, and even individuals connected to Vladimir Putin's inner circle. Epstein used these connections to push into Silicon Valley through funds such as Valar Ventures and Founders Fund, while simultaneously promoting himself as a bridge between high-tech innovation, private wealth, and the geopolitics of surveillance.The leaks also reveal Epstein's maneuvering in Russia, where he connected Barak with Sergey Belyakov and presented himself as a nonpolitical facilitator able to skirt sanctions and open doors to oligarch networks. He circulated articles on cyberwarfare, emergency management, and Israeli Unit 8200 to maintain relevance in the intelligence conversation. Collectively, these documents portray Epstein as more than just a disgraced financier—he was actively embedding himself in the global spy-tech ecosystem right up until his downfall.to  contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Inside Jeffrey Epstein's spy industry connectionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

This week I have two stories for you. The first is about a childless couple who must settle an old debt from eighteen years ago, and the second is about a chance meeting between American tourists and an unexpected companion in the Scottish Highlands during the month of Elul. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/where-i-go-you-cant-follow To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter