Learn to Do Right

07/18/2025

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
— Isaiah 1:17 (NIV)

Isaiah’s words land like a trumpet blast, urgent, clarifying, and deeply convicting. This verse, tucked into the first chapter of his prophetic call, is not a gentle whisper but a divine plea: God isn’t merely asking for ceremonial religion. He’s commanding action, justice, compassion, and advocacy.

At the time Isaiah delivered this message, Israel had become rich in ritual but poor in righteousness. Offerings were made, festivals were celebrated, and prayers were uttered, but justice was neglected and the vulnerable were ignored. God’s message was clear: “Stop doing wrong. Learn to do right.”

This is still God’s call to us today.

Imagine walking into a church filled with worship music, hands raised, and voices lifted high, but outside the building, the hungry are ignored, single mothers are shamed, orphans are invisible, and injustice runs unchecked. God isn’t impressed by religious performance. He is moved by mercy, righteousness, and action on behalf of the broken.

One of the most compelling modern examples of Isaiah 1:17 in action is the story of George Müller, a 19th-century evangelist who felt convicted by God to care for orphans. Without soliciting donations, Müller opened multiple orphan homes in England, housing and feeding thousands of children. He didn’t just preach the gospel, he lived it. He took up the cause of the fatherless, pleading their case not just before society, but before the Lord in prayer.

Isaiah calls us to learn to do right. That word learn reminds us that justice isn’t automatic. We must be intentional, educated, trained, stretched. We don’t drift toward righteousness. We must steer that way, often against the current.

God’s heart beats for the oppressed, the forgotten, the vulnerable. If we want to walk in step with Him, then our lives must reflect His compassion and courage. Seek justice not just in your prayers but in your posture. Defend the oppressed not just with social media posts but with sacrificial service. Take up the cause of the fatherless not just by noticing them but by mentoring, fostering, giving, or speaking up. Plead the case of the widow not with pity, but with presence and practical help.

Here are some things you can do to help you on your journey.

Reflect: Who in your life or community needs an advocate right now?

Learn: Read about a justice issue that breaks God’s heart, human trafficking, foster care, racial inequality, homelessness, and pray over it today.

Act: Reach out to a local ministry or organization serving the vulnerable. Ask how you can help.

Speak up: Be a voice in your workplace, family, or church for those who cannot speak for themselves.

My challenge for you is this:
Be intentional today in learning to do right. Let your compassion drive your action. Pick one way to defend someone who cannot defend themselves, even if it feels uncomfortable. Step into God’s justice.

Father, teach me to do right. Show me how to seek justice, not just in word, but in deed. Open my eyes to the needs of the oppressed and give me the courage to respond. Help me to be Your hands and feet in a hurting world. May my faith not be empty ritual but active love. Lead me in the path of righteousness for Your name’s sake. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Pastor Jeff

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