Defending The Defenseless

Proverbs 31:8-9

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. (Proverbs 31:8)

WHEN COLONIALISTS IN South Africa were threatening to take over the land of an indigenous people group in the late nineteenth century, missionary John Mackenzie and some of his colleagues intervened. They helped Khama III, chief of the Bamangwato people in the area now known as Botswana, rally resistance and get a hearing with Queen Victoria. The eventual result was a land protection agreement that served the interests of the indigenous people well for years to come. Mackenzie was one of many Protestants who defied the unfortunate and misinformed stereotype of missionaries as tools of exploitation. In fact, missionaries very often advocated for local people and became a thorn in the side of the powerful. They set political affiliations aside and took a stand for justice.^a

Many people don’t have the courage or the insight to do that. Instead, they have adopted a set of principles they believe are based on God’s Word and then live according to those principles rather than the movements of his Spirit or the character he has clearly revealed in Jesus. Scripture tells us quite plainly that God is on the side of justice for the oppressed and defends their interests, regardless of the political platforms of the players on the stage. He calls his people to have the same outlook and sensitivity. He pulls us out of the stereotypes and aligns us with his heart.

Have the courage to speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves, not because it’s the trendy thing to do—it may or may not be, depending on the situation—but because it is God’s nature to do so. Sometimes your voice will follow the political, cultural, and religious lines you normally follow; sometimes it won’t. In any case, your primary affiliation in this world is the Kingdom of God, and you are to be known for that above all else. Your heart will be drawn to those in need, your eyes will see injustices, and your soul will be unsettled about them. Praying, speaking, and taking action align you with the mission of God.

{Father, your desire to lift up the oppressed and seek justice on their behalf is one of the most prominent themes in your Word. Make it a prominent theme in my life. Give me eyes to see and courage to intervene wherever I can make a difference. Amen.