A Time For Speaking Up

Read Proverbs 31

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.

Proverbs 31:8-9

This proverb states a strong biblical antidote to the prevailing “mind your own business” mentality that cripples righteous living today. Yes, there are situations in which we shouldn’t meddle. Those who can speak or fend for themselves do not necessarily want our help. Yet most of us are aware of children and others who cannot speak for themselves but are suffering injustice while those who could help do nothing. The size of the problem does not excuse our silence.

Twice this proverb directs us to “speak up.” The problem for most Christians is not that we can’t see things that are wrong or that we can’t speak up. The problem is that we won’t speak up. Why? We’re intimidated, ashamed, or simply disobedient. If we’re unwilling even to speak up, it is practically certain that we will also be unwilling to “see that they get justice.” A warning from James that we read several days ago applies here just as well: “Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it” (James 4:17).

A WORD FOR TODAY

Speak up for those who can’t.

Dear Lord, I realize my heart needs to be opened more than my eyes do. Help me speak up for those who can’t defend themselves.