What does "does not accept a bribe" teach about integrity in leadership? The verse under the spotlight Psalm 15:5: “He who does not lend his money at interest or take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken.” Setting the context • Psalm 15 answers the question, “LORD, who may abide in Your tent?” (v. 1). • David lists qualities God expects; refusing bribes is one of the hallmarks of a person fit for His presence. What “does not accept a bribe” meant then and now • In Scripture, a bribe is any payment or favor meant to twist justice (Exodus 23:8). • Modern equivalents include cash, gifts, perks, political promises, or influence that sway decisions from truth. • God calls such inducements sin because they blind discernment and harm the innocent. Integrity lessons for leaders • Unbuyable leaders reflect God, who “does not show partiality or accept a bribe” (Deuteronomy 10:17). • Rejecting bribes protects the vulnerable—“a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise” (Deuteronomy 16:19). • It safeguards impartiality; decisions stay rooted in truth, not advantage (Proverbs 17:23). • Stability follows: “He who does these things will never be shaken” (Psalm 15:5b). Contrast: the dangers of bribery • Divine curse: “Cursed is he who accepts a bribe to strike down an innocent person” (Deuteronomy 27:25). • Loss of credibility—justice for sale destroys public trust (Isaiah 1:23). • Personal ruin: love of money pierces the soul with many griefs (1 Timothy 6:10). Practical safeguards for today’s leaders • Cultivate the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 8:13). • Keep finances transparent; embrace external accountability (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). • Refuse personal gifts from those you oversee; route legitimate gifts through audited, shared channels. • Practice contentment to disarm financial temptation (Hebrews 13:5). • Expose and repent of any compromise early (Ephesians 5:11). Encouraging promise Leaders who refuse to be bought enjoy God-given steadiness: “The righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever” (Psalm 112:6). |
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