If a king judges the poor with truth, his throne will always be secure. Proverbs 29:14, TLV
Are You Oppressed or Offended? This proverb provoked a theme that might be a bit controversial. Nevertheless, I believe it’s important. We’re living in a world of dichotomies and being aware is the first step to change.
On the one hand, there is more oppression and persecution than ever. Hunger and tyranny in Third World countries. Women sold into prostitution and slavery in nearly every country — including our own. Children also sold for pornography and prostitution. Brothers and sisters of the faith being tortured and martyred for their faith in Jesus.
We seldom see these poor souls in the news or headlines. Their voices are seldom heard or represented to receive some type of relief or justice.
On the Other Hand
On the other hand, the definitions for oppression and persecution have broadened to include a new group of people — the offended. Those who feel slighted and misunderstood—or validated.
Justice is no longer championing the truth, it’s getting what we feel we deserve. It’s responding to the loudest voices. Voices who unfortunately drown out the weak.
Oppressed vs. Offended
How do we separate those truly oppressed from those who are
offended or inconvenienced? Always, it is truth.
Truth from the foundation of the universe. Truth from the heart of the Creator of the Universe, as revealed in His word. Truth in love. Truth in holiness. Truth in grace. Truth in restoration. Truth in justice.
We may not rule a kingdom, nation, or city, but we live in God’s Kingdom. When we know the truth, we can live it. When we live it, others will be drawn to our Heavenly Father. Expanding God’s Kingdom? That’s a good thing.
Think More About It
Do you struggle with distinguishing between oppression and offense? Have you encountered folks who struggle with that distinction, too?
Until tomorrow, may we all abide in truth and seek justice for those truly oppressed, my friends.
The righteous will inherit the land
and dwell in it forever.
The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom
and his tongue speaks justice.
The Torah of his God is in his heart.
His steps do not slip. Psalm 37:29-31, TLV
Sometimes God’s timing for justice doesn’t seem fair, does it. Especially when innocents are affected by injustice. So how do we pray? I love Yeshua’s instruction when praying to His Father, “Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.” If we know that God’s will in heaven is for justice and that the righteous will inherit the land, then, well eventually, it will be done on earth. Today, let’s pray for justice as it is in heaven, that it will soon cover the earth. God bless you!
