What Does God Say About Speaking Up?
God has given us a powerful way to help others, be bold and show kindness. In Proverbs 21:8-9 we learn that it's important to stand up for others.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
Speaking up for people means using your words to help them. Next time you’re at school, church or the playground, be aware of when you should speak up for someone. If you see someone pushing or hitting another child, tell an adult. If you hear a classmate teasing someone on the playground, tell the bully why that’s wrong and then say kind words to the person being teased.
The tricky part is knowing when to speak up, and that comes with wisdom. You can gain wisdom by reading the Bible, listening to teachers and parents, studying hard and praying.
- On a separate sheet of paper, list some more ways you can speak up for people you know or might meet someday.
- Ask a parent how your family can help people in poverty.
