A Time to Keep Silent and a Time to SpeakSample

Don’t keep quiet when others need help

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” (Proverbs 31:8, NIV)

God had given the Israelites special rules to protect the most vulnerable in society. They should not exploit travelers who lived in the country of Israel without the support of a family, a permanent job or their own piece of land. Neither should they mistreat widows and their children, who lacked the protection and provision of a husband and father. But sadly, there was much social injustice going on since the people didn’t keep God’s good rules. God sent prophets to address this problem. “Your princes are rebels and companions of thieves. Everyone loves a bribe and runs after gifts. They do not bring justice to the fatherless, and the widow's cause does not come to them," He says in Isaiah 1:23.

In such circumstances, it is important to speak up for those who are treated unjustly. We can’t just mind our own business, but are called to open our mouths for those who have no voice.

In Israel, it was the sojourners, the widows and the fatherless who needed help. Can you think of more groups in society who cannot speak for themselves? How could you speak up for them?