Compelled to Act
Job 31:13–23
Someone once said the most popular player on a football team is the backup quarterback. The logic is that when the starting quarterback is having a bad game or underperforming, the backup can probably do a better job.
When it comes to our daily responsibilities as Christians, are we making a genuine effort to share Christ with others and stand in the gap for those whose voices may not be as loud as others in our society? For some, we are the ones in the position to help, and there is no backup readily available.
As followers of Christ, we should have a continual compelling to be a voice for the forgotten or neglected. This is not only the right thing to do, but it is also what Jesus modeled and commanded us to imitate.
We are all God’s handiwork from the womb. (13–15)
If we could truly understand God’s immense love for the world, we would experience far less turmoil in our society. The enemy’s most commonly used weapon has always been pride.
If he can lead you to believe you’re better than someone else, or that you have reason to look down on another person, you’ve not only been guilty of arrogance, but you’ve also forgotten that we are all created in the image of God.
Do you recognize that you are responsible for how you treat others? Even in the simplest situations, how you treat someone reflects your appreciation for God’s grace and love toward you. It’s troubling to see someone berate a server or employee at a business and then claim to be a Christian.
Our Heavenly Father wonderfully makes each person, and we should treat them accordingly.
We are accountable for how we help those who can’t help themselves. (16-20)
Job provides an excellent example for us all in these verses. He took the time to evaluate himself and the decisions he has made in his life. There is a small button on my desk that I look at each day. It is a quote from President John F. Kennedy: “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.”
No one can do everything, but everyone can do something! Your something may be a kind word, a hug around the neck, help with a meal, a utility bill or a ride to the store. What good is knowing Jesus if we are not busy showing the world the difference He has made in our lives?
We are accountable for how we seek justice for those who are unjustly treated. (21–23)
Job uses the orphan as an example of helping others around us. I have never met a homeless person, an orphan or a widow who wanted to be in the situation they are in.
It is also not our role to judge them or pepper them with questions. It is our job and great responsibility to love and serve them as Christ loved and served us.
You may deem others unworthy, but if you do, you are forgetting the essence of grace. It is a love undeserved and a mercy desperately needed. God will hold us accountable for how we treat others. The golden rule is key in this area. Don’t look around for a backup to relieve you. Let’s get in there and make a difference.
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
