I have found that dwelling on Scripture during my time at the sidewalk magnifies my focus. Scripture is our guide; with it God purifies us, gives us wisdom and understanding, and strengthens our walk with Him (Ps. 119:97-105). When we advocate for the unborn, using God's Word in prayer, meditation, and conversation clarifies our vision, strengthens our hearts, and helps us develop Christ-centered methods of outreach.
There are many passages in Scripture that tell us about God's heart for the vulnerable, children, and the broken. Take time to meditate on Scripture that reminds you of God's nature (Defender, Father to the fatherless, etc.) and what He commands His people to do in response to the at-risk.
Here are 5 passages to start with:
“A Father to the fatherless, a Defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling” (Psalm 68:5).
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy” (Proverbs 31:8-9).
“Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy” (Psalm 82:3).
“For Thou [God] hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall” (Isaiah 25:4).
“Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.” (Matthew 25:45b).
Don't just read Scripture before you sidewalk counsel, bring it with you! You can use a physical Bible, your phone, or quote passages you have memorized. His Word is of great depth; you can never exhaust it. Be purposeful with your "down time" at the sidewalk, while you wait to talk with the women and employees; use these moments for prayer, dwelling on His Word, strengthening relationships with your sidewalk team, and reaching out to pro-choice protesters. May His Word be your guide in each interaction you have, knowing the freedom and security that comes from abiding in Jesus.
