In what ways can we trust God to "plead their case" today? The Verse at a Glance “Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach upon the fields of the fatherless, for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.” (Proverbs 23:10-11) What It Means for God to “Plead Their Case” • Scripture pictures the LORD as a courtroom Advocate who steps between the vulnerable and those who wrong them. • He is both Redeemer and Judge—paying the price to free His own and prosecuting every injustice committed against them (Isaiah 54:17; Romans 8:33-34). • Because His character never changes (Malachi 3:6), the ways He championed the fatherless, widows, and oppressed in Israel’s day are the ways He still works today. Ways We Can Trust God to Plead Our Case Today 1. Through the finished work and ongoing advocacy of Christ • “If anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ the Righteous One.” (1 John 2:1) • At the cross, every legal charge against us was nailed to the tree (Colossians 2:14). In heaven, the risen Son continually speaks for us. • We rest, knowing no accusation can stand that Christ has already answered (Romans 8:34). 2. Through the intercession of the Holy Spirit • “The Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words.” (Romans 8:26) • When we cannot articulate the hurt or the injustice, the Spirit translates the burden perfectly before the Father. 3. Through providential justice in history • God moves kings, courts, and circumstances. He “executes justice for the fatherless and the widow” (Deuteronomy 10:18). • Examples abound—tyrannies collapse, truth surfaces, oppressed people groups are delivered, corrupt schemes unravel. • Even when outcomes take time, He is “working all things together for good to those who love Him” (Romans 8:28). 4. Through His Word confronting wrongdoers • The same Scripture that comforts the oppressed also convicts the oppressor (Hebrews 4:12). • A clear biblical stand often stops injustice in its tracks—moving hearts to repentance or restraining evil by the fear of God. 5. Through the ministry of His people • The Lord frequently pleads a case by raising up believers who act as His hands and voice (Proverbs 31:8-9; James 1:27). • When the church shelters refugees, supports foster children, or speaks in court for the defenseless, God Himself is pleading through them. 6. Through inner peace while the battle rages • “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) • He gives supernatural calm that guards hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7), proving He has the matter in hand even before the outward vindication appears. 7. Through final, irrevocable vindication • A day is coming when every account is settled (Revelation 20:11-15). • For the believer, that verdict is already secured: “Their Redeemer is strong.” (Proverbs 23:11) • Ultimate justice may wait until Christ’s return, but it will not be denied. Living Out This Truth • Lay every accusation, injustice, or slander before the Lord first; He is already in session on your behalf. • Refuse retaliation—trust the Judge who sees the whole case (Romans 12:19). • Engage in righteous action where He gives opportunity, knowing you are a tool in His hand to defend others. • Hold onto hope: the Advocate who spoke galaxies into being will not be silent about you. |