How can we cultivate a heart that resists the temptation of bribery? Proverbs 17:23 – The Warning Stated “A wicked man takes a bribe from the bosom to pervert the ways of justice.” Bribery is described as a hidden act that twists what is right. Scripture presents it as unmistakably wicked; therefore, any tolerance in the heart must be rooted out. Seeing the Sin Beneath the Bribe Bribery rarely stands alone. It grows out of deeper issues: • Greed – “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” (1 Timothy 6:10) • Fear of man – seeking favor from influential people (Proverbs 29:25) • Pride – believing one can manipulate outcomes without consequence (Proverbs 16:18) Identifying and confessing these motives is the first step toward freedom. Guarding the Heart Diligently • “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Daily time in the Word keeps the conscience tender (Psalm 119:11). • Inviting the Spirit to search and expose hidden motives (Psalm 139:23-24) keeps deceit from taking root. Cultivating Contentment and Generosity • “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” (Hebrews 13:5) • Regular, cheerful giving loosens money’s grip (2 Corinthians 9:7). • When the heart delights in God’s provision, bribes lose their appeal. Walking in Unshakable Integrity Positive practices that shut the door on bribery: 1. Speak truthfully at all times (Ephesians 4:25). 2. Handle money openly; use accountability in finances (2 Corinthians 8:21). 3. Refuse even small “favors” that compromise justice (Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 16:19). 4. Model Samuel’s example: “Whose ox have I taken? … You have not accused me of anything.” (1 Samuel 12:3-4) Choosing Wise Companions and Clear Accountability • “Walk with the wise and become wise.” (Proverbs 13:20) • Faithful friends challenge compromising attitudes (Proverbs 27:17). • Transparent relationships in church and family provide a firewall against secrecy. Keeping Eternity in View • “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:10) • God’s reward to the upright outweighs any temporary gain (Isaiah 33:15-16; Matthew 6:19-21). • Remembering Christ “who did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45) motivates sacrificial, honest living. Practical Steps for Today • Review all financial dealings; remove any hint of double standards. • Establish written policies for gifts and favors at work or ministry. • Memorize key verses (Proverbs 17:23; Hebrews 13:5) to call upon in moments of pressure. • Celebrate testimonies of integrity to reinforce righteousness within the community. Bribery thrives where hearts are unguarded, but a life anchored in Scripture, saturated with contentment, and surrounded by accountability will stand firm, displaying the justice and purity that honor the Lord. |
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