Speaking Up for Those in Need: Embracing Our Call on Safeguarding Sunday - Proverbs 31:8
Introduction
Today we are gathered on Safeguarding Sunday, a day when we pause to focus on our responsibility to protect and care for those who are vulnerable. In the Bible, we find a clear and strong message about justice, compassion, and speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves. This morning, our anchor verse is Proverbs 31:8, which says:
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.” (Proverbs 31:8, NLT)
The words in this verse are a call to action, a reminder that God cares deeply about justice and that we, as His people, are called to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.
This message is as urgent today as it was when it was first spoken. Today, let’s consider three ways we can live out this command to “speak up”: by recognising God’s heart for justice, embracing our role as protectors, and fostering a culture of safeguarding in our church and community.
1. Recognising God’s Heart for Justice
The first part of Proverbs 31:8 tells us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” The Hebrew phrase here for “speak up” is pa?a? peh, which implies opening one’s mouth boldly and freely on behalf of others. God’s Word makes it clear that advocating for those in need is not optional. This is an essential part of our faith journey and a reflection of God’s character.
Throughout Scripture, we see God’s unwavering heart for justice. He is described as a protector of widows, orphans, and the oppressed. Psalm 82:3-4 (NLT) echoes this call: “Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.”
Imagine a courtroom where a person has been unjustly accused and has no one to defend them. Now, picture someone stepping in, taking the stand on their behalf, and ensuring that their voice is heard. This is what God calls us to do—step in and speak up.
Tim Keller reminds us, “If God is holy and just, then we, His people, must care about injustice in the world. To care about justice means to care about all of God’s children.”
In our everyday lives, let’s be mindful of those around us who are vulnerable or marginalised. Who are the “silent” ones in our society, the ones without a voice? Today, God may be calling you to stand up for them. Whether it’s through prayer, support, or direct action, we are invited to participate in God’s work of justice.
2. Embracing Our Role as Protectors
The second part of Proverbs 31:8 commands us to “ensure justice for those being crushed.” The word “crushed” (ra?a?) in Hebrew signifies being broken or oppressed. Our call is to ensure justice for those who are broken down by life’s hardships or the unfair actions of others.
Isaiah 1:17 (NLT) reinforces this with a simple command: “Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” This isn’t about passive sympathy; it’s about active, intentional involvement.
In James 1:27 (NLT), we read, “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.” This verse challenges us to see our faith as something that translates directly into care and action.
Think about the story of the Good Samaritan. He didn’t pass by the man in need; he stopped, cared, and provided help. He could have walked away, but he embraced his role as a protector for someone who was vulnerable.
Beth Moore once said, “When God gives us the chance to do good, He’s giving us a glimpse of His heart for the vulnerable.”
As followers of Christ, we are to be vigilant, actively aware of those who might need protection, especially in our church community. Let’s commit to building an environment where everyone feels safe and valued. We are called not just to avoid harm but to be intentional protectors.
3. Fostering a Culture of Safeguarding
Ephesians 4:2-3 (NLT) encourages us, “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” This verse provides a framework for the culture we should build—a culture marked by humility, gentleness, patience, and unity.
When we cultivate these values, we create a space where people feel safe and cared for. Safeguarding isn’t only about preventing harm; it’s about building a church culture where everyone knows they are valued, loved, and protected.
In 1 Corinthians 12:25-26 (NLT), Paul writes, “This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honoured, all the parts are glad.” This is what a culture of safeguarding looks like—each of us caring for one another with sincere love and compassion.
Picture a family where everyone looks out for one another, helping when someone stumbles and celebrating when someone succeeds. This is how the body of Christ should function—each one of us responsible for the other.
Rick Warren said, “A church family moves you out of self-centred isolation and teaches you how to care about others.”
As a church, let’s commit to fostering a culture where everyone feels safe. This requires a proactive approach—being aware, setting clear boundaries, and embracing everyone with God’s love. By building this environment, we create a place where people feel safe to grow and be themselves.
Conclusion: Answering the Call
Today, we’ve heard the call of Proverbs 31:8 to speak up, to ensure justice, and to build a safe and loving community. As followers of Christ, we have a duty to be advocates, protectors, and builders of a culture of safety and care.
Call to Action:
Church, let’s be intentional in our actions to protect, defend, and uplift those who need it most. Whether it’s within these walls or out in our communities, let us make our lives a reflection of God’s heart for justice and compassion.
Invitation to Faith:
For those here today who don’t yet know Jesus as Lord and Saviour, I invite you to come to Him. Jesus Himself was an advocate for the vulnerable. He sacrificed His life to save and protect us from the ultimate danger—separation from God. He is inviting you to know Him, to experience His love, and to become a part of His family.
Today, let’s accept the call to be guardians of love, compassion, and justice, and may our lives reflect His truth.
