We see this struggle between good and evil, bondage and freedom, reflected in early American authors. One example is Samuel Langhorne Clemens—better known by his pen name, Mark Twain. Through his humor and wit, we gain insight into both his societal observations and his biblical upbringing. While Twain was skeptical of organized religion, his writings often echo the bold, justice-driven tone of the biblical prophets. This devotional explores how Twain’s work reflects core biblical themes and aligns with the voice of spiritual reformers.
Micah 6:8 (NIV) — "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Huck faces a moral dilemma: follow the law or free Jim, an enslaved man. When he chooses Jim, Huck says, “All right then, I’ll go to hell,” choosing justice over societal norms. Huck’s choice mirrors God’s call to act justly and love mercy over blind obedience to tradition.
In what areas of our lives is God calling us to stand for justice, even when it goes against the grain?
Isaiah 1:17 (NIV) — "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow."
In The War Prayer, Twain critiques the hypocrisy of praying for national victory without acknowledging the human cost. He echoes Isaiah’s warning against empty religious rituals and challenges us to see the world through God’s eyes of justice. Are there traditions or behaviors in your community that need a fresh look through the lens of God’s truth?
Matthew 23:23 (NIV) — "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices... but you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness."
Twain, like Jesus in this passage, often confronted the religious elite for focusing on appearances while neglecting compassion. He believed that true faith should transform hearts, not just behaviors. Do your actions reflect authentic compassion and justice, or are you more concerned with outward appearances?
James 1:27 (NIV) — "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
Twain gave voice to the marginalized—the poor, the enslaved, and the forgotten. He reminds us that true righteousness is revealed in how we care for the least among us. Who around you needs your voice, your kindness, and your advocacy today?
Declaration:
“Lord, give me a heart like Yours—to speak up for truth, to walk in humility, and to live with compassion. May I be faithful in small beginnings and bold when justice calls.”
Though he was not a theologian, Mark Twain carried a prophetic voice. His critiques came from a longing for authenticity, compassion, and truth—the same values that resound throughout Scripture. May we, like Twain, live boldly, write truthfully, and reflect God’s justice wherever we go.
