“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.” (Prov. 31:8-9)

The Bible clearly commands us to pray for and love those who persecute us personally (see Matt. 5:44). An example of this attitude was Jesus’ prayer on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34). But we are also commanded to stand up for truth and righteousness, to defend the rights of the poor and the needy, and to fight injustice toward those who are vulnerable in society.

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” (Psalm 82:3-4)

Act justly and love mercy

Micah gives a concise summary of what God requires of us,

“To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Part of living righteously means actively pursuing justice, especially for those who cannot stand up for themselves. To treat people fairly and push back against corrupt systems and power structures that oppress the marginalized. True righteousness demands action, speaking out with courage against corrupt powers to correct oppression.

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” (Isa. 1:17)

Freedom for the oppressed

When Jesus announced the launch of His earthly ministry, He did so by quoting the prophet Isaiah,

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19)

As followers of Jesus, we must be willing to take courageous stances for biblical principles, even in the face of persecution. Relying on the strength of the Lord, we can confidently obey God by advocating for the oppressed and speaking out against all forms of evil. May we passionately pursue justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before our God.

Obey God rather than men

When the religious authorities attempted to stop the apostles from preaching about Jesus, Peter responded boldly,

“We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29)