Learning to Do Right

“Learn to do right; seek justice, correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow.”
— Isaiah 1:17


This verse from Isaiah is a stirring command from God delivered to a people who had grown comfortable with hollow rituals. Their sacrifices and worship were no longer pleasing to Him, not because they lacked form, but because they lacked justice. God calls them back to the heart of faithfulness—a life marked by righteousness that defends, seeks, corrects, and pleads. This is not theoretical righteousness. It is practical, relational, and fiercely compassionate.

To “learn to do right” is to admit that doing right doesn’t always come naturally. It requires humility and a willingness to be taught. It involves unlearning patterns of indifference and selfishness, and embracing a life that prioritizes others—especially those who are often forgotten. Who in your community today is without a voice? Who is vulnerable or alone? How might your own growth in righteousness begin by recognizing them and choosing to stand beside them?

The commands in this verse are urgent: seek justice, correct the oppressor, defend the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. Each is an action, not a sentiment. Justice is not achieved by passivity. It takes courage to correct those who wield power unjustly. It takes attention and compassion to notice who is fatherless—who lacks security, support, or representation. It takes empathy to plead for the widow, the one left alone in grief or struggle, with no advocate of her own. These calls echo across time and land squarely in our present moment. Who is God calling you to defend?

One way to respond is by identifying an issue of injustice that stirs your heart—perhaps in education, immigration, housing, or elder care—and finding a small but faithful way to act. Read, listen, learn. Then act. Join an organization. Write a letter. Offer time or talents to someone without support. Let justice be the lens through which your faith comes alive.


Holy and Just God,

You have called me to seek justice and to defend the cause of the voiceless. Teach me how to do what is right—not only in belief but in practice. Help me to see where injustice takes root and give me the courage to respond. May I not settle for comfort when You are calling me to compassion. Let my life be shaped by Your righteousness and my actions reflect Your mercy.

I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

-

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