What does Proverbs 22:23 mean?

Solomon was a champion of the poor (Proverbs 14:31; 19:17; 22:16). This followed his sincere devotion to godly truth (Proverbs 1:7), as the Lord is the supreme champion of the poor. The prior verse noted that it was immoral to exploit disadvantaged people, including by denying them rights and protections. Solomon warns here that God, Himself, will act against those who abuse the weak.

In his letter to Hebrew Christians, the apostle James opposes any show of bias against the poor. He writes, "Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?" (James 2:5). In chapter 5 he berates rich farmers for withholding due wages from the laborers. He writes that the cries of the poor laborers "have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts" (James 5:4). Jesus' teaching included a blessing for the poor. In Luke 6:20 He said, "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God."