How can Christians ensure integrity in decision-making, avoiding bribes? Grounding Our Discussion: Exodus 23:8 “You shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds the clear-sighted…” (BSB, excerpt) Understanding the Danger of Bribes - Bribes distort perception, turning clear eyes cloudy. - They twist righteous judgment into self-serving outcomes. - God labels the practice sin, not merely poor etiquette. - Integrity safeguards God’s people from shared guilt in corrupt outcomes. Principles for Decision-Makers Today - Treat every choice as service rendered directly to the Lord. - Keep motives transparent; hidden agendas feed compromise. - Value people above profit, relationships above rewards. - Anchor final decisions to Scripture, not convenience or personal gain. Practical Safeguards • Set written policies that forbid gifts influencing outcomes. • Require multiple witnesses or signatures on financial approvals. • Track every transaction with clear, open records. • Keep private meetings in public spaces or with an assistant present. • Declare conflicts of interest before discussions begin. • Choose accountability partners who will confront any drift swiftly. Heart-Level Checks - Regularly confess any love of money that sneaks in. - Celebrate contentment; envy fuels bribe culture. - Meditate on Christ’s sacrifice, reminding the soul what true riches are. - Fast from optional luxuries at times, training the will to say “no.” - Give generously; open hands find it harder to clutch illicit gain. Scripture to Strengthen Resolve • Deuteronomy 16:19 – “Do not deny justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe…” • Proverbs 17:23 – “A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice.” • Proverbs 29:4 – “By justice a king brings stability… but one who exacts tribute demolishes it.” • 1 Timothy 6:10 – “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” • 2 Corinthians 8:20-21 – “We are taking care to do what is right, not only in the Lord’s eyes but also in men’s.” • James 1:27 – “Keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” Living as Light in a Corrupt World When believers refuse every form of payoff, big or small, the world gains a living picture of God’s justice. Decisions made with clean hands and pure hearts invite blessing, uphold the vulnerable, and reflect the righteous character of the One who never changes. |
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