Speak up

"This is what the LORD says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place." Jeremiah 22:3 NIV

On November 7 when Mary Cain, once titled the fastest girl in America, came out with the stories of the cruelty and exploitation she had suffered under the Nike Oregon Project, famed runner Kara Goucher showed her full support by tweeting, "I am so proud of @runmarycain for telling her powerful story of verbal, emotional, and physical abuse at the Nike Oregon Project. This took so much bravery. We have to stop the abuse of athletes, specifically females." Moving forward to further advocate for all women, Goucher says she hopes these conversations will lead to more female coaches, training about abuse and ways to report abuse.

And you know, when it comes to advocating for justice, or speaking up on behalf of someone that has been wronged, the Bible tells us to "do what is just and right" and "rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed." Can you see that to do and rescue are clear calls to action though? That means when you and I see someone being treated harshly or unfairly, we are not to sit idly by saying, "I don't want to get involved," but do whatever we can to ensure the 'oppressed' person is freed from their unjust treatment or control. 

So rather than staying quiet when witnessing the oppression, mistreatment or abuse of another person, remember this my friend... One determined voice can change lives around the world - and that voice very well could belong to you. So speak up. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that as believers we have an obligation to speak up for those who may be or feel powerless. Help us to use the positions You have placed us in Lord to help right wrongs when it is in our power to do so. Help us to be bold in speaking up for what we know is right. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Not be silent