Devotion: Proverbs 31:9

Proverbs 31:9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. 

This chapter in Proverbs starts out with the words and advice of a mother to her son, the King. She counsels him on how he should rule as a king, one who is godly and obeys the Father. The verses leading up to verse nine include warnings against women who will ultimately destroy kings, as well as the abuse of alcohol which hampers judgment. We see in verse nine that she is telling him to be a voice for the poor and needy, taking up their cause himself and ensuring they are treated justly and fairly.

What does this suggest? It shows us that a leader’s role is to ensure justice, not just pursue power or wealth. It is a demand for impartial, moral leadership that protects those who cannot speak for themselves or take a stand on their own behalf.

But what does that have to do with us in today’s time? We are not kings and queens in positions of authority or power.

Though we may not be ruling authorities, we all have a role we play in life. We are reminded by verse nine that we should not use our existing power for self-interest, whatever that position might be. It could be a role of authority in a job, in a social environment, in a school or at church. And for some it could be within your own family. We must remember that we wield power, in whatever form we have it, as an authority and have to remember that there are those beneath us or within our sphere of influence who cannot speak up for or defend themselves. As leaders we should use our voice and authority to defend the defenseless and provide for the needy.

What does this have to do with judgement? We must judge for ourselves when we need to step in and do something. We judge what is taking place as being unfair or unjust and make the decision to take action to change it. Judgment must be based on God’s truth, right and wrong according to His standards, not our own, rather than opinions, feelings, or social standing. And sometimes we have to take a stand for something that is not popular or pleasant, which takes strength of character from us to judge according to God’s justice.

Prayer: Lord, Whatever position I find myself in, help me to judge fairly and do what is right. Help me to take a stand for those in need and do what You would do Yourself. Amen 

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