“The wicked accept bribes in secret to pervert the course of justice.”
At first glance this verse seems kind of out there for most of us. I mean seriously, how many of us have someone offering us a bribe to declare the guilty innocent or the innocent guilty? Who is even in a position where their opinion or judgement matters? I know about 6 judges and that’s all. In Solomon’s day there were many in situations or positions to be a wicked judge of another person or to be affected by a crooked judge. To expand a bit this verse also includes a witness who will lie with the right incentives. This may be more relatable to us. It can be as simple as shading a story to favor a friend in a desire to please or help them. It is no better according to Solomon than the wicked judge allowing the truth to be perverted by a bribe. It is easy to take a friends side even when we know better. However, we are not doing our friend any favor by letting them take advantage of another. I once witnessed a group band together and mistreat an individual simply because they all relied on each other in business interactions. It can be very tempting. If you are a judge or a political or even a government leader never accept a bribe. If you are like the rest of us allow only truth and kindness to guide your actions and testimony. Today pursue justice. #BeTheEdge
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” Ephesians 4:25 NIV
