July 16 -- "Blinded By Bribes"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 16

"Blinded By Bribes"

Moses instructs the Israelites to appoint judges and officers, organized by tribes, in all the towns the LORD is giving them. But, make sure you appoint “just” judges, a word that means “to act according to what is morally right and fair” – even when others disagree with their rulings. The judges they appoint are to make their rulings fairly and honestly.

He counsels these judges to make sure they avoid “perverting justice.”  In other words, don’t twist the law.  It is tragic that some judges believe that they must occasionally lie or twist or cheat in order to achieve the legal outcomes that they desire. But judges have a solemn and sacred responsibility to judge objectively and fairly.  They do not have the freedom to decide the case according to their own will or desires or political agenda.  When a judge does this, it is called subversion.  Jesus addressed this issue in John 7:24 when He said, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.”

Judges should never play favorites or take a bribe.  Moses tells the people that a bribe blinds even a wise person; it undermines the intentions of the best of people.

On a personal level, we all need to beware of “bribes” that are offered to us to persuade us to compromise our witness for Christ.  I’m not talking about a financial bribe, but something much more sinister.  A “bribe” from our fleshly nature (also known as “the pride of life”).  Our flesh is constantly trying to bribe us by offering “fulfillment” or “admiration” or “enjoyment” from a source contrary to God’s word.  An example of this might be when you are tempted to hide your Christian faith from your co-workers because you’ve been offered the enticement of their “admiration” and “acceptance.”  Be very careful to avoid twisting the truth just so you can benefit from the accolades of others. This kind of bribe blinds even a wise person; it undermines the intentions of the best of people.

You, like the judges of Israel have a solemn and sacred duty to remain true to God’s word and to act according to what is morally right and fair.