Don’t Exploit People

You must not exploit a widow. . . . If you exploit them in any way . . . I will certainly hear their cry. My anger will blaze against you. Exodus 22:22-24

You learn that a supplier has had a run of bad luck and is hurting for cash to meet short-term obligations.

Do you . . .

Take advantage of the supplier’s vulnerability and demand that he “sharpen his pencil” before you finalize an order you already intended to place?

Or do you . . .

Acknowledge the supplier’s dilemma and pay full price as a way of helping him get back on his feet?

If the business turns around, you will have a dedicated supplier who bends over backward for you. If it doesn’t, you haven’t paid any more than you intended to pay in the first place, and you’ve honored someone by being gracious to them during a difficult time.

Taking advantage of someone’s misfortune is not good stewardship.