In Her Image: Character Study of the Proverbs 31 WomanSample

Character Trait: Advocate for justice and protect the vulnerable.

In Proverbs 31:8, Lemuel’s mother urges him to “speak up” for those who cannot defend themselves, especially the voiceless and destitute. This verse highlights the vital role of leadership in standing up for justice, especially for those whose rights are ignored or oppressed. Lemuel’s mother knew that true leadership involves using one’s influence to serve others, not just oneself. This wisdom is timeless—it’s not about holding power but using our voices for good.

Today, we may not be kings, but we still have power and influence to advocate for justice. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we are all called to stand up for those who are marginalized or oppressed. Speaking out can be as simple as defending a friend, supporting a cause, or even raising awareness about an injustice. Our words and actions can create positive change in our world.

Reflecting on Lemuel’s mother’s wisdom, we must ask ourselves: Are we using our voice for justice, or are we staying silent when we see wrong? This is a call to action—using our influence to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and being advocates for change.

Application: Consider how you can speak up for justice. Think about those in your life or community who may be vulnerable or oppressed. Choose one way to speak out or take action to help them—whether it’s standing up for someone being mistreated or advocating for a cause that needs attention.