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. [Proverbs 31.8-9]
The writer here says ultimately that the poor and helpless need to get justice. Why justice?
Perhaps in asking the question above, I have shown my ignorance of what the word 'justice' really means!
It would seem at first that justice has everything to do with law. But if the author of the verse above knows what he is talking about, then justice also has something to do with benevolence as well.
What do the poor and helpless actually need? Food, clothing, shelter, medical attention, ambulatory care... Are these justice? Apparently so!
I am getting the idea that my complaints in days gone by about the legal system in my country could reveal that I have missed the point! For justice to be served in the USA (or any country for that matter), perhaps the starting place is not in the legal system, but in benevolence! Perhaps if people focused on actually helping the poor and helpless, then some of these other problems would come into line. Maybe?
How though does one deal with those who refuse to help themselves (poor because they are entitled and lazy) as opposed to those who are genuinely helpless (disabled, tragedy-stricken, etc.)?
Father, from Isaiah's prophecy to Jesus' declaration, I have no doubt that Your work is found in tending to those who cannot help themselves.
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