This is part of a series, studying the book of Proverbs during the month of July, 2011. For more details click here.
Theme
After exploring one chapter a day for the past 31 days, today we put the finishing touch on this study of the book of Proverbs. Together we've explored 915 verses, and blogged and digested well over 15,000 words, detailing just part of the vast volume of wisdom available to us. You have shared plenty of comments, conversations, and thoughts along the way, for that I am so thankful.
Chapter 31 is probably the most well-read chapters in the whole book, and for great reason. The chapter details the values of the virtuous woman, and it generally works it way into every Mothers' Day church service. Often overlooked, though, are the first nine verses, specifically verses 8-9. This is where I want to head - the underdog verses.
I enjoy the underdog. In cinematic adventures, some of the most successful movies (and many of my favorites) include the story of a person who doesn't belong - the underachiever who becomes an overachiever. From Braveheart to Gladiator to the Star Wars saga, each of these movies includes a hero who rises up from the shadows and reaches the forefront in search of justice for their people. Who knew they contained parallels to Proverbs?
We are commanded to speak for those who cannot speak, to provide protection for them. And we are to seek justice for everyone, not just those who can afford it. They are easy to ignore, yet hard not to see. I know I don't do enough as an advocate. How about you?
There are those today who take this charge quite seriously. Some day read Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne. Tell me he's not devoted to acting upon his beliefs. Check out charitywater.org. Their campaigns allow everyday people to raise money for clean and safe water in developing countries. Read about Troy Yocum at drumhike.com. A Iraqi war veteran who decided it was time to help veterans who needed assistance, he's wrapping up a walking tour across America. Today he's a bit over a month away from finishing his 7,000 mile quest, and has raised over $460,000, as well as national awareness, to help our vets.
What's your plan in helping others? No matter the size, it's time to start somewhere. If you are already helping others, where can you do more?
Chapter 31 is probably the most well-read chapters in the whole book, and for great reason. The chapter details the values of the virtuous woman, and it generally works it way into every Mothers' Day church service. Often overlooked, though, are the first nine verses, specifically verses 8-9. This is where I want to head - the underdog verses.
I enjoy the underdog. In cinematic adventures, some of the most successful movies (and many of my favorites) include the story of a person who doesn't belong - the underachiever who becomes an overachiever. From Braveheart to Gladiator to the Star Wars saga, each of these movies includes a hero who rises up from the shadows and reaches the forefront in search of justice for their people. Who knew they contained parallels to Proverbs?
We are commanded to speak for those who cannot speak, to provide protection for them. And we are to seek justice for everyone, not just those who can afford it. They are easy to ignore, yet hard not to see. I know I don't do enough as an advocate. How about you?
There are those today who take this charge quite seriously. Some day read Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne. Tell me he's not devoted to acting upon his beliefs. Check out charitywater.org. Their campaigns allow everyday people to raise money for clean and safe water in developing countries. Read about Troy Yocum at drumhike.com. A Iraqi war veteran who decided it was time to help veterans who needed assistance, he's wrapping up a walking tour across America. Today he's a bit over a month away from finishing his 7,000 mile quest, and has raised over $460,000, as well as national awareness, to help our vets.
What's your plan in helping others? No matter the size, it's time to start somewhere. If you are already helping others, where can you do more?
Key Verses For Me
Proverbs 31: 8-9 - Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.
Quote
In matters of truth and justice, there is no difference between large and small problems, for issues concerning the treatment of people are all the same. - Albert Einstein
Related Scripture
James 3:16-18 - For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.
Prayer
Oh Dear Heavenly Father, may Your church once again be the voice for those who have nothing, as once we were. May Your work and heart's desire flow through us and into the communities around each and every one one of us.
So what verse(s) stick out to you and why?
Verse 9 "Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me of one of my favorite books "To Kill a Mockingbird". It is a sin to kill a mockimgbird. It sings and does no harm to anyone. Tom, a black man, was accused and tried of raping a white girl in which he was put to death. He was poor and needy. Atticus Finch was the only lawyer that would speak up for and defend him. The town was in an uproar over this rape. Atticus stood his ground in defending Tom because he was a fair and just man. Just as it is a sin to kill an innocent mockingbird it is a sin to kill an innocent man. It doesn't matter what walk of life we come from. Everyone needs to be judged fairly. Lord, I pray that you would instill in me to judge fairly no matter the situation. Fill my heart Lord with what is just and right in defense of others.