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Psalm 82  
A psalm of Asaph.

God presides in the great assembly; he renders judgment among the “gods”: “How long will you defend the unjust and show partiality to the wicked? Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked. “The ‘gods’ know nothing, they understand nothing. They walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken. “I said, ‘You are “gods”; you are all sons of the Most High. ’ But you will die like mere mortals; you will fall like every other ruler.” Rise up, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations are your inheritance.

When eighteen year olds “age-out” of orphanages in Panama they are left to fend for themselves. Within a year, 70% are in prison, on drugs, or involved in prostitution. That’s why believers provide help and assistance. We must defend the weak and the fatherless.

The Mathare slum in Nairobi, Kenya is one of the largest in the world. Raw sewage flows in the streets and disease runs rampant through the ten-by-ten shanties crammed side by side. AIDS leaves many children orphaned. Sexual abuse is prevalent. Located in the slum is a Christian school called AIC Zion where children can get decent meals every day, a quality education, and hope for the future. Believers must uphold the cause of the poor and oppressed.

The call to defend the weak and the fatherless, the poor and the oppressed, is a call throughout Scripture. Don’t ignore the call. To whom much is given much is expected. Contact your church to find out how you can get involved in rescuing the weak and the needy.

Lord, open our eyes to Your instruction and open our hearts to respond. Don’t allow inaction to be our response to Your call to defend those who can’t defend themselves. In Jesus’ name. Amen.