Proverbs 21:13-15 (ESV)
13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor
will himself call out and not be answered.
14 A gift in secret averts anger,
and a concealed bribe, strong wrath.
15 When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous
but terror to evildoers.
The helpless repeatedly cry out to those with resources, but the wicked woman ignores their pleas.When the hardhearted woman is thrust into her hour of need, there will be none to rescue her. The destitute are unable to bribe people in high places. Although the calloused woman turns her back to the cries of the helpless, she bends to the one bearing gifts. This must be done in secret, as even the evil recognize bribery as a perversion of justice. One day, all will give account to God, and transgressors of his law will be punished. Jesus taught us to do for others as we would like them to do for us. Think about how you would like to be treated. What would bring joy in the midst of the struggles you are currently facing? Now think of someone to whom you could bring the same relief. Follow up by putting that last thought into action today.