Does God expect us to speak up for others?
I know He does. As people who love God, we are called to speak up, show up, and stand up for each other, especially for those who cannot do it for themselves.
Love demands us to defend the rights of all those who have nothing.
“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.” Proverbs 31:8-9
We need to develop the heart of Jesus, one that breaks over the suffering of others and acts on their behalf.
“Being kind to the poor is like lending to the Lord; he will reward you for what you have done.” Proverbs 19:17
Religion is a belief in a higher power. Love of that higher power compels one to act. For me, God the Father is the only higher power, and it is He who tells us how to put our actions where our mouths are.
Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” James 1:27
Speaking up to say you have faith means nothing without putting it into action.
“What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.” James 2:14-17
Yes, the Lord expects us to speak on behalf of others. Who needs your voice lent to them? Find them and Speak.
–Beth Stafford, Daughters of Encouragement (DOE)
Edits and hyperlinks by Gail Bouffard