How can Christians resist the allure of "a bribe" in daily life? Anchoring Verse “You shall not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous.” – Exodus 23:8 Why Bribes Appeal • Promise of quick gain or advantage • Desire to avoid conflict or speed a process • Fear of missing an opportunity others might seize • Cultural norms that shrug at “greasing the wheels” What Bribes Really Do • Blind our discernment (Exodus 23:8) • Corrupt the heart (Ecclesiastes 7:7) • Bring trouble on the household (Proverbs 15:27) • Twist justice and hurt the innocent (Proverbs 17:23) Spiritual Stakes • Divided loyalty: “You cannot serve God and money.” – Matthew 6:24 • Snare of ruin: “Those who want to be rich fall into temptation and a snare.” – 1 Timothy 6:9–10 • Loss of witness: integrity lost is hard to regain (Proverbs 10:9) Practical Ways to Resist • Settle convictions early – Decide now that no payoff, gift, or “favor” will sway you. • Keep transactions transparent – Use written records, open communications, and multiple witnesses (2 Corinthians 8:21). • Value contentment over gain – Practice gratitude; refuse “easy money” (Hebrews 13:5). • Build accountability – Invite a trusted believer to ask direct questions about financial decisions. • Pray for daily wisdom – “Lead us not into temptation” applies to boardrooms and backrooms alike (Matthew 6:13). • Remember the cost – Picture the long-term damage to family, reputation, and kingdom influence. Cultivating an Integrity Lifestyle • Work “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • Give generously; loose hands with money leave no room to grasp a bribe (Acts 20:35). • Meditate on Scripture that exalts honesty—Proverbs 11:1; Psalm 15:1–2. • Surround yourself with upright companions (1 Corinthians 15:33). Christ—Our Model of Purity “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” – 1 Peter 2:22 Jesus rejected every worldly shortcut (Matthew 4:8–10) and entrusted Himself to the Father. Following Him empowers us to turn down any offer that would compromise truth. Living the Verse Today When the envelope slides across the desk, the cash-back deal feels “normal,” or the favor exchanged for silence seems harmless, remember Exodus 23:8. A bribe blinds and twists, but obedience keeps eyesight sharp and speech straight. Choose clarity over compromise, and let integrity shine for the glory of God. |
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