“Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” —Proverbs 31:8–9

How many times have you been in a group when the direction of the conversation went to places that made you uncomfortable? It could be in the form of suggestive jokes, office gossip, racial remarks, inappropriate comments about a supervisor, or complaints about a spouse. It happens all the time, and your perceived sense of discomfort should trigger an awareness that you need to show up and speak up. Others may be uncomfortable as well, reluctant to speak up and try to redirect the conversation, instead of wading through the pain in awkward silence. It takes courage to interject in these moments, and all you must do is “open your mouth” without being self-righteous and disrespectful.

DO THIS: Speak up for God.

PRAYER: God, today give me just enough courage that I will speak up for myself, others, and what is right and just in your sight. And may I no longer be silent but build toward defending the right of others.