Speak Up and Judge Fairly: Becoming a Proverbs 31 Woman Who Defends the Needy

“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9 NIV)

From Genesis to Revelation, one message echoes throughout Scripture: God’s heart for the poor, the needy, and the vulnerable. Again and again, He calls His people to defend the weak, care for the oppressed, and show kindness to those who cannot repay. This is not a minor issue in the Bible; it reflects God’s very character and mission.

Throughout history, nations and individuals faced judgment for neglecting justice. Israel was rebuked for turning away from the needy and ignoring the oppressed (Isaiah 1:17; Amos 5:11–12). Even Nineveh’s downfall was tied to their violence and exploitation of the weak (Nahum 3:1–4). This shows just how deeply God values justice and compassion.

Proverbs 31:9 captures this heart perfectly. It reminds us that speaking up for the poor and helpless is not optional; it is a command that still applies to us today.

God’s Heart for the Needy

Throughout Scripture, God’s care for the poor is undeniable. He told Israel to leave the edges of their fields unharvested so that the hungry could glean (Leviticus 19:9–10). He commanded leaders to rule with fairness and protect the rights of widows, orphans, and strangers (Deuteronomy 10:18-19).

Jesus carried this same heart. He declared:

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free.” (Luke 4:18 NIV)

The Gospel itself is tied to God’s love for the broken and His mission to set the oppressed free.

My Story

This verse resonates deeply with me because I come from what I call the “poor poor.” Growing up, life was tough. I started working around the age of 10 or 11 to help put food on the table. My childhood was filled with responsibilities far beyond my years. There were times I wondered if things would ever change.

But God was faithful. Along the way, He used people to bless me, support my education, and transform my story. Today, my life looks completely different. I have stability, opportunities, and hope.

Yet, I know this change wasn’t just for me. God didn’t lift me so I could forget those still struggling. He lifted me so I could help lift others. Every time I see someone in need, I remember where He brought me from. That memory fuels my compassion and reminds me that I am called to be His hands and feet for someone else.

Speaking Up: A Command, Not a Suggestion

When I meditate on Proverbs 31:9, I hear God’s gentle but firm reminder: “Speak up.” This isn’t optional; it’s an assignment.

There was a time in my twenties when fear and people-pleasing kept me silent. I wanted to be liked and avoided conflict. But as I’ve grown, I’ve learned that living for people’s approval is bondage. To honor God, I must be bold, even when it costs me something.

Jesus said,

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40 NIV)

When we defend the poor or stand up for what is right, we’re not just helping others; we’re honoring Christ Himself.

The Power of a Voice

There is power in using our voice. God spoke creation into existence (Genesis 1). Jesus spoke, and storms stilled, demons fled, and bodies were healed. Words carry power.

I can recall moments when I saw wrong but stayed silent. I convinced myself it wasn’t my place, but deep down, I knew it was fear. Fear silences purpose. Proverbs 31:9 challenges us not to hide behind fear or indifference.

Speaking up doesn’t always mean making loud statements. Sometimes, it’s choosing not to laugh at cruel jokes, standing for truth when it’s unpopular, or encouraging someone who feels invisible.

Esther faced this same decision. Her people were in danger, and she had influence. Mordecai told her:

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14 NIV)

Perhaps God placed us where we are, not for comfort, but to be a voice for truth and justice.

Who Are the Poor and Helpless?

When we hear “poor,” we often think of money, but poverty comes in many forms:
• Some are poor financially.
• Some are poor in spirit, discouraged, or lonely.
• Some are voiceless in society, silenced by discrimination or fear.
• Some are fighting invisible battles like depression or rejection.

Jesus saw beyond appearances. He stopped for the blind beggar crying out for mercy (Luke 18:38-39). He defended the woman caught in adultery when others wanted to stone her (John 8:10-11). His example reminds us to see people as God sees them, beyond their pain, with compassion and truth.

Judge Fairly

“Judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9 NIV)

Justice in God’s eyes is about truth, not favoritism. James 3:17 says,

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17 NIV)

True justice demands courage, honesty, and humility. It challenges us to be fair even when it’s uncomfortable.

The Cost of Speaking Up

Speaking up can cost friendships, comfort, or reputation. People may label you as too bold. But obedience to God is worth more than approval from people.

The prophets were often rejected for speaking the truth. Jesus Himself was hated because He stood for justice and defended the weak. If He faced opposition, why should we expect it to be easy?

As women, we must ask: Do I want to be liked or to be faithful?

Practical Ways to Speak Up

Speaking up for justice happens in everyday moments:

1. Refuse gossip and use your words to build, not break.
2. Encourage someone quietly; justice begins with kindness.
3. Use your platform to share truth online or in person.
4. Pray for courage because God empowers us to act boldly.
5. Seek wisdom before speaking and let the Holy Spirit guide your words.

Living Selflessly

The world encourages self-centeredness, but God calls us to look beyond ourselves.

“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2:4 NIV)

Helping the poor isn’t only about money. Sometimes it’s offering your time, sharing a meal, donating clothes, or simply listening. God values every act of love, no matter how small.

Final Thought

Being a Proverbs 31 woman is not just about strength in the home; it’s about strength in society. When we speak up, we reveal the heart of Christ to the world.

Who around you needs your voice this week? Don’t wait for someone else; perhaps God placed you there for such a time as this.

Ladies, how do you practice speaking up for others? Has there been a time when silence cost you or when courage made a difference? Share your story in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you and learn together.