Right Rarely Equals Convenient
In his Letter from Birmingham Jail, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote, “We must use time creatively, in the knowledge that the time is always ripe to do right.” These powerful words remind us of the urgency of action, especially when it comes to confronting injustice and living out our faith. Dr. King wrote this letter in 1963, responding to criticism from clergy who called his efforts for racial equality “untimely.” His reply was firm: “For years now I have heard the word 'Wait!'... This 'Wait' has almost always meant 'Never.'”
How often do we feel the pull to “wait” until things feel more convenient, less risky, or better aligned with our plans? We tell ourselves we’ll share our faith when the timing is better, help someone in need when we have more resources, or forgive when it feels easier. But the truth is, there’s rarely a convenient time to do what is right. Delaying only prolongs the pain of those who are hurting and postpones the impact of God’s work through us.
Faith and Injustice
Dr. King’s words call us to confront injustice wherever it exists. He wrote, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”
As followers of Christ, we can’t turn a blind eye to the suffering of others, even if it feels uncomfortable or inconvenient. The Bible challenges us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves (Proverbs 31:8-9). Whether it’s advocating for fairness in your workplace, standing against discrimination, or helping someone in need, doing what is right requires courage and a commitment to justice.
Jesus Himself never hesitated to do what was right, even when it was inconvenient or met with resistance. Whether He was healing on the Sabbath, dining with tax collectors, or stopping to help those others ignored, His life shows us that pursuing righteousness often requires stepping outside of societal expectations. It’s not always easy, but it is always necessary.
Faith Calls Us to Action
Jesus didn’t wait for a "perfect moment" to act. Many of His miracles and teachings happened in interruptions or at inconvenient times. When the disciples wanted to send the hungry crowd away, He fed them. When Bartimaeus cried out for healing despite being rebuked by the crowd, Jesus stopped and restored his sight. These moments remind us that doing the right thing often means stepping into the uncomfortable, taking risks, and putting others before ourselves.
Dr. King’s words echo the call of Scripture. James 4:17 reminds us, “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.” The Holy Spirit nudges us to act—not when it’s easy or convenient, but when it’s necessary. It may feel difficult, but when we step forward in obedience, God strengthens and equips us.
Living With Purpose Today
Dr. King’s message challenges us to make the most of the time we’ve been given. When we wait for a “more convenient season,” we miss opportunities to make a difference, to stand for truth, and to reflect God’s love. Instead, we’re called to use time creatively and faithfully, trusting that God will provide what we need when we step out in obedience.
Here are three ways to live with purpose today:
Take the First Step: Whatever good you’ve been putting off—whether it’s reaching out to someone, standing up for what’s right, or responding to God’s call—start today.
Trust God With the Outcome: We often wait because we’re afraid of failure or rejection, but God asks for faithfulness, not perfection. Trust Him to work through your obedience.
Be Intentional With Your Time: Reflect on how you’re using the time God has given you. Are you prioritizing things that align with His will?
Dr. King’s words remind us that the time to act is now. Let’s not wait for perfect conditions to do what God has called us to do. Together, we can reflect His love, bring hope to the world, and honor Dr. King’s call to justice. By stepping forward in faith, we live as Christ’s hands and feet in a world that desperately needs His light.
What is one area where you’ve been waiting for a “better time” to act? Trust God and take the first step today—He will equip you to do what’s right.
Lord, thank You for reminding us that the time to do what is right is always now. Forgive us for hesitating or delaying when You call us to act. Give us the courage to trust You, to step forward in faith, and to make a difference today. Help us to live with purpose and urgency, reflecting Your love and light in all we do. Amen.
If you’d like to read Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Letter from Birmingham Jail in its entirety, you can find the full text here.
