Welcome to Life

(Proverbs 17:8 KJV)  A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.

Are you comfortable with the idea of a “gift" (bribe NASB) (7810)?  We have many common extensions of this concept.  While bribing someone is illegal we accept tipping for good service.  One difference is that usually tipping comes after and is voluntary.  A job bonus might be the same, but what about “discounts” and “free samples”? 

This is a simple observation that the person getting the advantage because of a gift is quite pleased with themselves.  Like so many gray areas of life the moral value depends on the intent and attitude of the actor and the results of the action.

So?  Life is not always easy.  Decisions are not always clear.  Sometimes all we can do is focus on the inner values that have been instilled by faithful reading of the word, listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and trust God.  Welcome to life.