Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.

In order to truly understand the massive force with which this statement is made, it requires that we seek to deeply understand God’s heart. A few verses come to mind …
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (‭‭Micah‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬)
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬)

Why is it so important for us individually to act and speak up on justice issues? Why can we not just mind our own business and sit back and enjoy life?

First of all, God’s Word commands it. He wants us to be active in justice issues. Second, people who are being hurt, tortured, abused, oppressed, and left destitute matter to God dearly. They are his children. So if we truly love God, we will also care for them actively too. Third, it develops a heart full of mercy. This mercy shines forth and brightly displays the light of Jesus coming out of us, when we act in merciful ways like he did.

Some think they are religious without getting their hands messy and taking a step to help out their fellow man. They may say, “My relationship with God is private. I just try to be kind and not get involved in controversial issues.” But many times this is a front or cover for a heart that lacks mercy and compassion for those who need our help.

Do I want to know God deeply? I must put myself in the path of the needy and oppressed and help them as Jesus did. “Jesus answered them, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.’” (‭‭Luke‬ ‭5‬:‭31‬-‭32‬)

If I am always found hanging out with the popular and “in” crowd, insulating myself from those who truly need help, how am I being like Jesus?

Lord, put the needy and destitute on my heart more. Help me to reach out and help them more freely. Teach me to “prioritize up” justice issues over my selfish desires. May your Heart of Mercy keep expanding in my heart!