In recent years we have witnessed the heartbreaking phenomenon of people fighting for truth and justice. Environmental activists, investigative journalists, indigenous peoples' advocates, and human rights defenders have become targets of criminalization. Those who speak out to help the weak and protest structural crimes are instead accused of spreading lies, convicted as troublemakers, thrown into prison, and some are even threatened with their safety. Not only that, their families also live in fear, worrying whether they will return home or disappear without news. In such a situation, justice seems buried and the truth is like a small voice that is easily silenced. Many end up crying silently, asking themselves, "Is there still room for truth and justice in this world?

It is the sound of such struggle that echoes in the psalmist's cry, "Look upon my affliction and spare me, for your Torah I have not forgotten" (Psalm 119:153). In this passage (verse 153 & 160), the psalmist's life is described as a case brought before the divine court. He is surrounded by his opponents, those who deviate from God's law and tamper with justice. Yet he did not retaliate with violence; he pleaded with God to restore his dignity, open up space for him, and give him the breath to endure. He knew that his life depended on God's promises and steadfast love.

The psalmist's confidence came from nothing less than His words and statutes that he lived by. The word that he loved gave him peace in the midst of challenges. Although his life was not yet free from oppression, he was not consumed by fear of man, because his faith in God was much stronger. She praised God "seven times a day", a rhythm of life rooted in His presence. That peace is not an escape from suffering, but an inner strength to stand firm when the world is crumbling.

Friends of the Bible, perhaps we know someone, or have even experienced it ourselves, a condition when fighting for the truth makes us lose our sense of security, or when the right seems defeated. Our hearts waver and we question the decisions we have made. However, be steadfast in fighting for His truth because that is our calling as believers. May God's word give us the courage to keep walking in the light, even when the path is steep.